26-Nov-2025
South Korea has emerged as one of the world’s most influential trade hubs, powered by its advanced manufacturing capabilities and strong global partnerships. From electronics and automobiles to steel, chemicals, and shipbuilding, the country’s exports are deeply embedded in international supply chains. South Korea’s strategic alliances with major economies like the United States, China, Japan, and ASEAN nations not only fuel its own growth but also strengthen the flow of goods across continents.
As global supply chains evolve, the role of South Korea’s trading partners has become even more critical in shaping global production, innovation, and distribution networks. In this blog, we will explore the insights into South Korea’s biggest trading partners and the list of major trading partners of South Korea.
The monthly imports and exports from South Korea are as follows:
|
South Korea's international trade statistics |
South Korea trade data |
Exports (YoY Change) |
Imports (YoY Change) |
|
August 2025 |
$6.51 billion |
+1.3% |
-4.00% |
|
July 2025 |
$6.61 billion |
+5.9% |
+0.7% |
|
May 2024 |
$4.78 billion |
Rise |
Fall |
According to South Korea trade data, in June 2025, the country exported $59.8 billion and imported $50.7 billion, resulting in a positive trade balance of $9.07 billion.
South Korea's imports rose by $1.65 billion (3.37%) from $49.1 billion to $50.7 billion between June 2024 and June 2025, while exports increased by $3.11 billion (5.49%) from $56.7 billion to $59.8 billion.
According to South Korea import export data, declining semiconductor shipments and tariffs from the US and China were the main causes of the country's export growth slowing to 1.3% in August 2025, falling short of projections. Do you require South Korea trade data, a list of South Korea's trading partners, or statistics on trade between China and South Korea? Visit our dashboard today.
The table below compares estimated/actual trade values for 2024 with various forecasts for 2025.
|
Trade Metric |
2024 (Estimated/Actual) |
2025 (Forecast/Projection) |
|
Total Exports (Goods) |
US$683.9 billion |
Higher than US$ 683.9 billion |
|
Total Imports (Goods) |
UUS$631.7billion |
Higher than US$ 631.7 billion |
|
Trade Balance (Goods) |
US$52.2 billion surplus |
Surplus (expected to remain large) |
|
Export Growth Rate |
+4.1% (Year-on-Year) |
+1.3% (Year-on-Year) |
|
Current Account Surplus |
US$99 billion |
Expected to remain large |
The most notable change is the forecast for export growth, which is expected to slow significantly in 2025 (from $4.1\%$ in 2024 to $1.3\%$ in 2025, according to KDI). This is attributed to the diminishing "front-loading" effects that boosted 2024 trade and the adverse impact of new U.S. tariff hikes.
Despite the slower export growth, the trade balance (goods) and current account surplus are generally expected to remain large and positive in 2025, supported partly by improved terms of trade and robust growth in specific sectors like semiconductors early in the year. To know the updated list of South Korea’s trading partners, South Korea trade statistics.
Here is the list of South Korea's largest trading partners or South Korea biggest trade partners:
|
Rank |
South Korea’s top trade partners |
South Korea trade data (US$) |
% of Total Exports |
|
1 |
Mainland China |
$133 billion |
19.50% |
|
2 |
United States |
$128.4 billion |
18.80% |
|
3 |
Vietnam |
$58.3 billion |
8.50% |
|
4 |
Hong Kong |
$35 billion |
5.10% |
|
5 |
Taiwan |
$34 billion |
5% |
|
6 |
Japan |
$29.6 billion |
4.30% |
|
7 |
India |
$18.7 billion |
2.70% |
|
8 |
Singapore |
$18.2 billion |
2.70% |
|
9 |
Australia |
$15.6 billion |
2.30% |
|
10 |
Mexico |
$13.6 billion |
2% |
China is South Korea’s biggest trading partner, playing a central role in electronics, machinery, and chemical supply chains. South Korean firms heavily rely on China for intermediate goods and raw materials used in manufacturing. The two countries maintain strong industrial cooperation, especially in semiconductors and consumer electronics. Despite occasional geopolitical tensions, China remains indispensable to South Korea’s export-driven economy.
The United States is one of South Korea’s most significant trade partners, driven by strong demand for automobiles, electronics, steel, and advanced machinery. The Korea–US Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA) greatly supports bilateral trade, reducing tariffs and boosting economic integration. American imports of Korean tech and consumer goods continue to grow steadily. The partnership also extends to strategic sectors like defence, aerospace, and high-tech innovation.
According to South Korea import export data, Vietnam has rapidly become a major trade partner, supported by South Korean investments in electronics, textiles, and manufacturing plants. Companies like Samsung and LG operate large production bases in Vietnam, making it a critical part of Korea’s global supply chain. Trade between the two nations has surged as Vietnam evolves into a regional manufacturing hub. Their strong economic ties enhance both countries’ participation in global and regional trade networks.
Hong Kong serves as a key re-export and financial hub for South Korean goods entering mainland China and Southeast Asia. Korean electronics, machinery, and consumer products are frequently routed through Hong Kong’s highly efficient trade infrastructure. The region’s strong logistics and financial services make it a vital link in Korea’s trade ecosystem. Hong Kong’s role as a gateway market further strengthens South Korea’s export reach.
Taiwan is an important trade partner, especially in the semiconductor and electronics sectors. Both economies play leading roles in global chip manufacturing, creating opportunities for collaboration and competitive growth. South Korea imports advanced components and exports high-tech goods that support Taiwan’s industries. Their partnership helps strengthen the global electronics supply chain and drives innovation in the digital economy.
So, these are South Korea's largest trading partners.
To get the most recent South Korea import-export data and South Korea’s top trade partners or importer lists worldwide, it is best to speak with import-export companies and industry specialists. They can provide you with current and helpful statistics on South Korea's primary exports, its largest trading partners, and its import and export statistics.
ExportImportData is the best import export data provider and your one-stop shop for import and export data solutions. It is among the world's largest providers of import export data.
South Korea’s trading partners play a vital role in supporting and expanding the global supply chain by providing markets, resources, and technological collaboration. These relationships ensure the smooth movement of high-value products, reinforce resilience during disruptions, and promote innovation across industries worldwide.
Strong economic ties will continue to be essential to preserving stability and promoting long-term growth as global trade faces obstacles ranging from geopolitical changes to technological advancements. However, if you need the list of South Korea’s top trade partners, South Korea trade data, South Korea import/export data and South Korea trade statistics, connect with ExportImportData.in and book a free live demo today.
South Korea’s trading partners: China
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South Korea’s biggest trading partners are China, the United States, and Vietnam.
Yes, India and South Korea have a significant trade relationship, with bilateral trade totaling approximately $24-25 billion in recent years and aiming to reach $50 billion by 2030.
South Korea's top three exports are integrated circuits, cars, and refined petroleum.
South Korea's top five imports are mineral fuels, oils, distillation products, electrical machinery and equipment, machinery, nuclear reactors, and boilers, optical, photo, technical, medical apparatus, and vehicles.
South Korea's biggest trading partner is China in terms of overall trade volume, although the United States has surpassed China as its top export destination for some recent periods.
South Korea's main trade involves exporting high-tech and manufactured goods like electronic integrated circuits, automobiles, and petrochemicals, while importing essential resources such as crude oil, natural gas, and other raw materials.
China is South Korea's largest trading partner, representing a significant portion of its exports and imports, particularly in electronics, chemicals, and machinery.
