Seoul, July, 2025 – South Korea’s information and communication technology (ICT) sector recorded a robust performance in the first half of 2025, with total exports climbing 5.8% year-on-year to USD 115.16 billion, according to data released by the Ministry of Science and ICT on Monday. The growth was primarily fueled by strong global demand for semiconductors, particularly those used in artificial intelligence (AI) and data center applications.

The increase in outbound shipments—up from USD 108.83 billion in the same period last year—highlights the resilience of South Korea’s tech industry amid a dynamic global landscape shaped by digital transformation and the accelerating adoption of advanced computing technologies.

Imports of ICT products also rose 5% year-on-year to USD 70.92 billion during the January–June period, resulting in a sectoral trade surplus of USD 44.24 billion.

Semiconductors remained the standout performer, with exports surging 11.4% to USD 73.31 billion. The uptick was supported by heightened global demand for high-performance AI chips and rising chip prices, reinforcing South Korea's leadership position in the global semiconductor supply chain.

Computers and communication equipment exports also posted solid gains, increasing 10.8% to USD 6.64 billion. Mobile phone shipments grew 9.1% to USD 6.08 billion, reflecting improved market sentiment and higher shipments of premium models.

However, the export performance was not uniformly positive across all product categories. Display panel exports declined sharply by 13.9% to USD 8.7 billion, weighed down by weakened consumer demand, heightened global economic uncertainty, and ongoing inventory adjustments in related industries.

In terms of export destinations, shipments to China and Hong Kong—the country’s largest combined market—fell 11.5% year-on-year to USD 41.98 billion. The drop was attributed to a softening in semiconductor demand from Chinese manufacturers.

Conversely, exports to the United States surged 14.5% to USD 14.42 billion, driven by robust orders for chips and IT hardware. Shipments to Vietnam increased by 10% to USD 19.06 billion, while exports to Japan rose 5.7% to USD 1.95 billion. In contrast, sales to the European Union declined 2.7% to USD 5.8 billion.