South Korea has posted its fifth-largest monthly current account surplus ever in January, propelled by a booming semiconductor sector and robust export growth. The Bank of Korea reported a surplus of $13.26 billion for the month, down from December’s $18.7 billion but skyrocketing 397.4% from the previous year.
This marks the 33rd consecutive month of surpluses since May 2023, the second-longest streak in history. The nation’s record annual surplus hit $123.05 billion in 2025, eclipsing the 2015 peak of $105.1 billion.
The goods account led the charge with a $15.17 billion surplus, the third-highest monthly figure on record. Exports surged 30% year-on-year to $65.51 billion, while imports rose a more modest 7% to $50.34 billion. Semiconductor exports doubled, up 102.5%, and vehicle exports climbed 19%.
Services saw a $3.8 billion deficit, driven by increased outbound travel. Primary income notched a $2.72 billion surplus from dividends, offsetting an $830 million secondary income deficit.
Financial accounts showed net assets rising $5.63 billion. Korean direct investment abroad jumped $7.04 billion, while inbound foreign direct investment grew $5.34 billion. Korean investors poured $13.46 billion more into foreign stocks, with foreigners adding $4.69 billion to Korean securities.
This economic momentum underscores South Korea’s export-driven resilience amid global uncertainties, positioning it strongly for continued growth.