South Korea Sets Record in AI Chip Exports

South Korea achieved its highest-ever monthly exports in January, driven primarily by soaring global demand for semiconductors used in artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure. The news, released in official government data on Sunday, marks a historic milestone for the country’s trade sector.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, January exports reached USD 65.8 billion, a 33.9% increase compared with the same month last year. This is the first time exports in January have surpassed the USD 60 billion mark.

South Korea, home to some of the world’s leading memory chip manufacturers, has become an essential supplier for AI systems, data centres, and high-tech electronics globally. Technology giants Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix reported record quarterly profits in the October–December period, reinforcing the country’s semiconductor dominance.

The ministry reported that semiconductor exports alone amounted to USD 20.5 billion, representing a 102.7% year-on-year increase, making it the second-highest monthly chip export value ever recorded. The previous record had been set only one month earlier, with USD 20.8 billion in chip exports.

The automotive sector also saw notable growth. Exports of hybrid and electric vehicles rose by 21.7% year-on-year, reaching USD 6 billion, reflecting the increasing global shift toward greener transport technologies.

However, South Korea faces fresh trade tensions with the United States. Earlier this week, U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to raise tariffs on South Korean goods from 15% to 25%, triggering concern in Seoul. The South Korean government has criticised Washington for failing to secure congressional approval for a trade agreement that had initially reduced tariffs.

Seoul and Washington had signed an agreement in October under which South Korea committed to increased U.S. investment in exchange for a tariff reduction from 25% to 15%. In November, the South Korean presidential office emphasised that the deal did not require parliamentary approval, arguing that it was a memorandum of understanding rather than a legally binding document.

January 2026 South Korea Export Summary:

These figures underline South Korea’s critical role in supplying global technology and highlight the country’s growing influence in AI-related industries, even amidst potential international trade challenges.