South Korean business confidence rises in Q4 on strong semiconductor and cosmetics exports

According to the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry, South Korean manufacturers recorded a business survey index of 86 for the October-December period, marking a six-point increase from the previous quarter. The index, which stays below 100 when pessimists outnumber optimists, reflected especially strong sentiment in the semiconductor sector, which achieved a reading of 139, the highest since the survey began and the fourth consecutive quarter above the benchmark.

The cosmetics sector's index rose by 20 points to 120, and the medical and precision equipment sector advanced to 108. Despite the overall optimism, many firms still anticipate that their operating profits will fall short of targets set earlier in the year due to higher production costs from raw material and energy price pressures.