2025.12.0100:02:20UTC+00South Korea Imports Grow Less than Estimated

In November 2025, South Korea experienced a 1.2% increase in imports year-on-year, reaching USD 51.30 billion. This upturn came after a 1.5% decline in the preceding month, yet it did not meet the market's expectations of a 3.4% rise, according to preliminary data. The modest recovery was largely attributed to improved energy demand as the year-end approached. However, the overall momentum for imports was restrained due to subdued consumer spending and cautious manufacturing activities. The recent enhancement in trade relations with the United States is anticipated to stabilize demand for essential industrial inputs in the future. Concurrently, Seoul's strategic fiscal policies and incentives for consumption might gradually boost the acquisition of consumer and intermediate goods. Nonetheless, the recovery is expected to be inconsistent, hindered by weak household sentiment, cautious inventory rebuilding, and ongoing uncertainties regarding China's economic prospects.