South Korea’s current account surplus declined at the start of 2026, easing to $13.26 billion in January from $18.70 billion in December 2025. The latest data, updated on 5 March 2026, marks a notable month-on-month moderation in the external balance.
The pullback suggests a cooling in the momentum seen at the end of 2025, when the surplus reached $18.70 billion. While South Korea remains in surplus territory, the January figure indicates a reduced net inflow from trade in goods and services, primary income, and transfers compared with the previous month. Investors and policymakers are likely to watch upcoming releases closely to gauge whether this narrowing is temporary or the start of a broader trend in the country’s external position.
