April Exports Hit $25.2 Billion, Setting All-Time Record for Early April

South Korea's April exports reached $25.2 billion, achieving the highest figure for early April on record. According to preliminary data from the Korea Customs Service, this performance surpasses that of the same period last year. The export growth was achieved amidst external uncertainties, including the Middle East conflict, with semiconductor exports expanding to account for 34% of total exports, driving growth. In the same period, the trade balance recorded a surplus of $3.1 billion, and export value surged by 36.7% compared to the previous year.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump commented that oil prices might rise further by fall, acknowledging the possibility of sustained high oil prices.

The South Korean Army will fully replace the K1A rifles used by special forces units after 40 years. SNT Motiv has been selected as the contractor for the project, with plans to introduce 16,000 new rifles through an investment of 65.4 billion won.