South Korea's April Exports Surge 36.7% in First 10 Days, Led by Semiconductor Demand

South Korea’s exports surged 36.7% year-on-year in the first 10 days of April, reaching a record $25.2 billion, driven primarily by robust semiconductor demand, according to reports from the Korea Times and the Korea Herald. The semiconductor sector alone experienced a 152% increase, accounting for 34% of total exports during this period.

The strong export performance marks the highest value for the first 10 days of April on record, surpassing the previous benchmark of $21.7 billion set in earlier years, as noted by the Korea Herald. This growth reflects a solid recovery in overseas markets, with semiconductors remaining a critical driver amid escalating global chip demand.

According to data from the Korea Customs Service cited by the Korea Times, South Korea’s imports also grew by 12.7% to $22.1 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of $3.1 billion during the same period. While semiconductor and petroleum product exports contributed positively, automobile exports showed a decline.

Yonhap News Agency highlighted that this export growth underscores South Korea’s key position in the global semiconductor supply chain and signals continued economic momentum moving into the second quarter. The surge in chip exports is critical given ongoing international competition and supply chain bottlenecks.

Looking ahead, analysts and policymakers will monitor whether this export momentum sustains throughout April and beyond, especially with global semiconductor demand potentially fluctuating. The trade balance and sectoral export shifts will be closely watched as indicators of South Korea’s economic resilience.