Did S. Korea's Auto Exports Really Reach a Record $72 Billion in 2025?
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Synopsis
South Korea's automotive export sector reached new heights with a staggering $72 billion in 2025. Driven by eco-friendly vehicle demand, this achievement showcases the resilience of the nation's auto industry amidst global challenges. Join us as we explore the milestones, trends, and future outlook for this pivotal sector.
Key Takeaways
- Record auto exports of $72 billion in 2025.
- Strong demand for eco-friendly vehicles and used cars.
- Third consecutive year exceeding $70 billion in exports.
- Domestic production maintained at over 4 million units.
- Government plans to enhance the automobile industry's competitiveness.
Seoul, January 15 (NationPress) The automobile export sector of South Korea achieved a remarkable milestone, reaching a staggering $72 billion last year, driven by robust international demand for eco-friendly vehicles and second-hand cars, as per data released by the government on Thursday.
This figure represents a 1.7 percent increase over the $70.8 billion recorded in 2024 and a 1.55 percent rise from the previous record of $70.9 billion set in 2023, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
It is noteworthy that this marks the third consecutive year in which the nation’s annual automobile exports have exceeded the $70 billion mark.
The ministry noted that the domestic automobile sector faced challenging export conditions last year, notably due to U.S. tariff measures, yet achieved this success due to increased demand for Korean-made eco-friendly vehicles and used cars.
In the past year, exports of eco-friendly vehicles, including electric, hydrogen, and hybrid cars, saw an impressive growth of 11 percent compared to the previous year, totaling $25.8 billion.
Specifically, shipments of hybrid vehicles surged by 30 percent to an unprecedented $14.8 billion.
Furthermore, exports of used cars soared 75.1 percent to reach a historic $8.87 billion, attributed to the strong brand recognition of Korean vehicles and the depreciation of the local currency, as stated by the ministry.
In terms of production, the domestic output of automobiles amounted to 4.1 million units in 2025, surpassing the 4 million unit mark for the third straight year.
Additionally, domestic sales of cars increased by 3.3 percent year-on-year, totaling 1.68 million units, which included 1.36 million Korean-brand cars and 320,000 imported vehicles.
Sales of eco-friendly vehicles also rose by 25 percent, reaching 813,000 units, which accounted for nearly half of total domestic sales.
The ministry affirmed that it will endeavor to sustain the robust export momentum and enhance the fundamental competitiveness of the automobile industry in the evolving mobility sector this year, amidst ongoing global trade uncertainties.
Point of View
It's evident that South Korea's automotive industry is not just resilient but is a significant player in the global market. The consistent growth in exports reflects both innovation and consumer preference towards eco-friendly vehicles. This trend should encourage policymakers to further support the sector, ensuring its competitiveness amidst global trade uncertainties.
NationPress
15/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What drove the increase in South Korea's auto exports?
The increase was primarily driven by strong overseas demand for eco-friendly vehicles and used cars, despite facing challenges like U.S. tariff measures.
How much did eco-friendly vehicle exports grow?
Exports of eco-friendly vehicles grew by 11 percent on-year to $25.8 billion.
What was the total domestic production of automobiles in 2025?
Domestic production of automobiles reached 4.1 million units in 2025.
How did domestic car sales perform?
Domestic car sales increased by 3.3 percent year-on-year, totaling 1.68 million units.
What are the future plans for the South Korean auto industry?
The government aims to maintain export momentum and enhance the competitiveness of the auto industry in the future mobility sector.
