South Korea is making waves again in global tech. In the first half of 2025, South Korea saw a strong rise in its ICT exports. According to government data, exports rose 5.8% compared to last year, bringing in $115.16 billion between January and June.
The reason? One word: semiconductors. Or more specifically, AI chips.
Semiconductors Push the Numbers Up
Semiconductor exports shot up 11.4% to $73.31 billion. This big jump came from the massive global demand for AI chips. With more data centers popping up and tech giants racing in AI development, chips are back in the spotlight.
Gadgets, Phones Also on the Rise
Exports of computers and communication equipment rose 10.8%, reaching $6.64 billion. Mobile phone exports also grew by 9.1%, landing at $6.08 billion. These gains show that Korean-made gadgets are still in high demand.
But not everything is up.
Display panel exports dropped 13.9% to $8.7 billion. Why? Global consumer demand is still shaky. Also, many companies are adjusting their inventories, so they’re buying less for now.
Where the Goods Are Going
South Korea’s biggest buyers have changed a bit this year.
- Exports to China and Hong Kong fell 11.5% to $41.98 billion, mostly due to weak chip demand.
- Exports to the US rose a strong 14.5%, hitting $14.42 billion.
- Vietnam surprised everyone with a 10% increase, reaching $19.06 billion.
- Japan also climbed 5.7% to $1.95 billion.
- The EU saw a 2.7% drop to $5.8 billion.
Stock Market Feels the Buzz
The market responded too. By late morning Monday, the KOSPI was up 0.15%, reaching 3,180.50. Insurance stocks flew high. Samsung Fire & Marine rose 9.51%, while Hyundai Marine & Fire went up 6.35%.
Retail and beauty stocks also rallied. Shinsegae and AmorePacific both gained big.
But not all was rosy. Samsung Electronics fell 0.96%, and LG Energy Solution dropped 1.87%.
South Korea is back in the tech trade game, and AI chips are leading the charge. While some areas still struggle, the country’s focus on semiconductors and next-gen tech is clearly paying off.
Also Read China’s Exports Reach $325B in June, Surplus Jumps Despite US Drop
