South Korea records second-largest August current-account surplus amid export boom
South Korea posted a $46.1 billion current-account surplus in August, the second-highest on record, driven by a sharp rise in exports.
According to data from the Bank of Korea, South Korea's current-account balance for August stood at $46.1 billion, making it the second-largest surplus ever recorded after June's $49.73 billion. The figure represents a $4 billion increase from the previous month and a $36.2 billion jump compared with August of the prior year. Export performance was the main driver, climbing 82.1 % year-on-year to $104.8 billion, while imports rose 23.8 % to $57.99 billion.
The goods account posted a $46.81 billion surplus, and the primary income account contributed an additional $1.92 billion, boosted by higher equity earnings. August also continued a streak of 40 straight months with a current-account surplus, and the annual surplus for 2025 reached a record $123.05 billion.
Why it matters
The strong surplus highlights South Korea's export-driven growth and its resilience amid global semiconductor demand.
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