South Korean Won Strengthens Against US Dollar on Strong Exports
The South Korean won has reached a two-year high against the US dollar, driven by robust export performance.
The South Korean won has reached a two-year high against the US dollar, driven by robust export performance.
On October 21, 2026, the South Korean won continued its upward trend, reaching a new two-year high against the US dollar. The exchange rate was recorded at 1,325.2 won per dollar, marking an increase of 2.9 won from the previous trading session.
This surge in the won's value is largely attributed to strong export figures, with recent government data revealing that South Korea's exports more than doubled to $61.6 billion in the first 20 days of October. This impressive growth was primarily fueled by significant shipments of semiconductors.
Additionally, foreign investors showed confidence in the local market, purchasing a net total of 659.9 billion won (approximately $497.3 million) in South Korean stocks during the latest trading session. The Korea Composite Stock Price Index also reflected this positive sentiment, rising by 3.29% to close at 5,735.66.
Analysts suggest that the robust export performance is a strong indicator of South Korea's economic resilience and may continue to support the won's strength in the near future.
