South Korea's exports hit a record $87.75 billion in May, marking a 53.2% increase from the previous year. This milestone is attributed primarily to a significant rise in semiconductor shipments, fueled by investments in artificial intelligence. Notably, semiconductor exports surged 169.4% to reach $37.16 billion, with DRAM and NAND flash exports increasing by 369.8% and 206.8%, respectively. The overall trade surplus for May was $26.95 billion, with imports rising 20.8% to $60.8 billion. This achievement follows two previous months where exports exceeded $80 billion. Other sectors, including petroleum products and nonferrous metals, also saw notable increases. However, automobile exports fell 5.9% due to various operational challenges. Trade Minister Kim Jung-kwan emphasized the need to mitigate trade risks amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties and pledged government support for stabilizing exports and securing essential raw materials.