South Korea’s Current Account Surplus Surges to Record on Chips

South Korea’s current-account surplus hit another record in March, boosted by a surge in semiconductor exports and stronger shipments to Asia and the US. The report is broadly positive for Korea’s external balance and export momentum, though foreign investors sharply cut holdings of domestic stocks amid rising Middle East tensions, which adds a risk-off note.

Analysis

South Korea’s current-account surplus hit another record in March, boosted by a surge in semiconductor exports and stronger shipments to Asia and the US. The report is broadly positive for Korea’s external balance and export momentum, though foreign investors sharply cut holdings of domestic stocks amid rising Middle East tensions, which adds a risk-off note.