Korea logs record high current account surplus in June

emirates7 - The Republic of Korea posted its largest-ever current account surplus in June, driven by increased exports of semiconductors and other key products, according to data released Thursday by the central bank.

The current account surplus reached US$14.27 billion in June, up from $10.14 billion in May, marking the highest monthly surplus on record and the 26th consecutive month of surplus. The country has maintained a current account surplus every month since May 2023.

For the first half of 2025, the total current account surplus amounted to $49.37 billion, compared to $40.16 billion during the same period last year.

In June, the goods account showed a surplus of $13.16 billion, supported by a 2.3 percent year-on-year increase in exports to $60.37 billion, driven by strong demand for semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, and computer peripherals.

Imports rose modestly by 0.7 percent to $47.21 billion, marking the first increase in three months.

Meanwhile, the services account recorded a $2.53 billion deficit for the month, mainly due to increased overseas travel by Koreans and fewer visitors coming into the country.

The primary income account, which includes wages of foreign workers, dividends from overseas investments, and interest income, posted a $4.16 million surplus in June, the data revealed.