The Bank of Korea published preliminary balance of payments data showing South Korea’s current account surplus rose to USD 61.46 billion in September 2026 from USD 46.11 billion in August. A larger goods surplus drove the increase as exports grew faster than imports. The cumulative current account surplus for January through September reached USD 340.66 billion, compared with USD 83.89 billion in the same period of 2025. The goods account recorded a USD 62.75 billion surplus. Exports increased 92.4% from a year earlier to USD 130.72 billion, while imports rose 29.4% to USD 67.97 billion. The services account posted a USD 3.35 billion deficit, reflecting deficits in other business services and travel. Primary income recorded a USD 2.65 billion surplus, supported by increased income on equity, while secondary income registered a USD 0.59 billion deficit. Net assets in the financial account increased by USD 54.34 billion during September. Portfolio investment contributed a net increase of USD 30.44 billion, reflecting a USD 16.63 billion rise in assets and a USD 13.81 billion decline in liabilities. Other investment accounted for a further USD 22.41 billion net increase, with asset growth exceeding the rise in liabilities.
Bank of Korea reports September 2026 current account surplus of USD 61.46 billion
The Bank of Korea’s preliminary data showed a September 2026 current account surplus of USD 61.46 billion, up from USD 46.11 billion in August. The goods surplus reached USD 62.75 billion as exports grew 92.4% from a year earlier, outpacing import growth of 29.4%. Financial account net assets increased by USD 54.34 billion, led by portfolio and other investment.