Key facts
- South Korea's current account surplus reached $46.1 billion in August.
- This figure marks the second-largest surplus on record.
- Exports surged 82.1% year-on-year to $104.8 billion in August.
- Imports increased 23.8% year-on-year to $57.99 billion in August.
- The country has maintained a current account surplus for 40 consecutive months.
South Korea's current account surplus continued its strong performance in August, reaching $46.1 billion, according to data released by the Bank of Korea. This figure represents the second-largest surplus on record and a significant increase from both the previous month and the same month in 2025. The robust performance was primarily driven by a substantial surge in exports, which rose 82.1% year-on-year to $104.8 billion. This export strength is attributed to the ongoing global semiconductor upcycle. Imports also saw an increase, rising 23.8% year-on-year to $57.99 billion, but the faster growth in exports led to a widening surplus in the goods account, which stood at $46.81 billion. The primary income account also contributed positively, logging a $1.92 billion surplus due to increased income from equity. South Korea has now maintained a current account surplus for 40 consecutive months, a streak that began in May 2023. In 2025, the country achieved its largest-ever annual surplus of $123.05 billion.