South Korea’s exports surged by 6.6% in December, surpassing expectations and marking a record high for the year, despite global trade uncertainties. This growth represents the 15th consecutive month of annual export increases, attributed to a strong performance in sectors like semiconductors, which saw a 31.5% rise. The total annual exports reached $683.8 billion, the fastest growth in three years. Shipments to China, the largest market, increased by 6.6%, while exports to the U.S. grew by 10.5%. However, challenges loom with the incoming U.S. administration’s proposed tariffs potentially impacting South Korean businesses overseas.
