The Bank of Korea reported a preliminary current account surplus of USD 46.11 billion for August 2026, up from USD 9.85 billion a year earlier. The increase was driven by a USD 46.81 billion goods surplus, as exports rose 82.1% year over year to USD 104.80 billion and imports increased 23.8% to USD 57.99 billion. The cumulative current account surplus reached USD 279.20 billion in the first eight months of 2026. The services account recorded a USD 1.68 billion deficit, mainly reflecting shortfalls in other business services and travel. A USD 1.92 billion primary income surplus, supported by income on equity, was partly offset by a USD 0.94 billion secondary income deficit. In the financial account, net assets increased by USD 40.23 billion, led by a USD 21.44 billion net increase in portfolio investment and a USD 7.82 billion net increase in direct investment, while reserve assets rose by USD 12.19 billion.
Bank of Korea reports preliminary USD 46.11 billion current account surplus for August 2026
The Bank of Korea reported a preliminary current account surplus of USD 46.11 billion for August 2026, driven by a USD 46.81 billion goods surplus and an 82.1% year-over-year increase in exports. Financial account net assets rose by USD 40.23 billion, led by portfolio investment, direct investment and higher reserve assets.