Record semiconductor sales drove exports to their fastest growth in decades, offsetting a 2% KOSPI decline on profit-taking.
South Korean exports surged at their fastest pace in decades, fueled by record AI chip sales that outpaced even the most optimistic forecasts. The trade surplus has already surpassed last year’s full-year total, underscoring strong external demand for Korean tech exports.
The KOSPI index fell roughly 2% on Wednesday, marking its first pullback after a 66% quarterly gain—the strongest since 1998. Foreign investors were net sellers in the first half, though their market share by value increased, signaling potential rotation rather than a fundamental shift.
The won weakened amid the equity selloff, while bond yields rose, reflecting broader risk-off sentiment. Despite short-term volatility, the trade surplus remains a long-term support for the currency.