South Korea's exports rose 70.9% year-over-year in June.
Total outbound shipments reached a record $102.25 billion. This marks the first time the country's monthly exports have exceeded the $100 billion threshold. The performance represents the strongest growth since 1978 and surpassed analyst expectations. South Korea is now the fourth nation to ever reach this monthly export value.
Semiconductor shipments surged 199.5% during the month. Chip exports reached an all-time high of $44.82 billion. Global investment in artificial intelligence drove the unprecedented demand for these components. Computer exports also spiked 308.8% due to demand for AI server parts. The nation's trade surplus reached a record $36.15 billion.