In October 2025, South Korea's trade surplus expanded significantly to USD 6.06 billion, compared to USD 3.15 billion in October of the previous year. This increase exceeded market expectations, which anticipated a surplus of USD 2.98 billion, as per preliminary data. Exports saw a 3.6% year-on-year increase, albeit at a slower pace compared to the 12.7% jump observed in September, marking the fifth straight month of export growth. On the other hand, imports decreased by 1.5%, a reversal from the 8.2% increase witnessed in September, and contrary to market predictions of a 1.4% decline.