South Korea logged the largest current account surplus in 32 months in May on the back of a sharp rise in the trade surplus and increased dividend income, central bank data showed Friday. The country's current account surplus reached US$8.92 billion in May, a turnaround from a deficit of $290 million in April. The May surplus marks the largest since September 2021, when the surplus came in at $9.51 billion. In the first five months of the year, the country's current account surplus reached $25.47 billion, a turnaround from a deficit of $5.03 billion during the same period of last year. The central bank cautiously expects the year's current account surplus to be higher than expected, although there are still headwinds such as uncertain economic conditions and oil prices. May's surplus came as the country's trade surplus sharply increased and dividend payments from overseas increased. The country's goods account racked up an $8.75 billion surplus in May following a $5.11 billion surplus the previous mont h. Exports gained 11.1 percent on-year to reach $58.95 billion in May, while imports declined 1.9 percent to $50.20 billion. The primary income account, which tracks the wages of foreign workers, dividend payments from overseas and interest income, reported a $1.76 billion surplus in May, a shift from a $3.33 billion deficit in April, the data showed. The services account deficit narrowed to $1.29 billion in May from a deficit of $1.66 billion the previous month, the data showed. Source: Yonhap News Agency
(LEAD) S. Korea’s current account returns to surplus in May
Recent News
Ukraine Urged to Stand by Taiwan Amid Global Autocracy Concerns: NGO
September 16, 2026
U.S. Will Not Tolerate Change in Taiwan Status by Force: Senator Ricketts
September 16, 2026
Taiwan Digital Minister Engages with U.S. Officials on AI and Cybersecurity
September 16, 2026
China Airlines Partners with Virgin Atlantic to Enhance SkyTeam Network
September 16, 2026
Meta Launches Meta One Subscription Service in Taiwan
September 16, 2026
Asset Hub Push Lifts Taipei’s Global Financial Standing: Stock Exchange
September 16, 2026
Deal with CTBC Subsidiary for Domed Stadium Close: Taichung Mayor
September 16, 2026
TSMC Shares Rally Back to Ex-Dividend Level Within Minutes
September 16, 2026