SEOUL, November 15 (AJP) - South Korea's AI-driven export boom is spreading beyond semiconductors, with shipments of data center storage devices, chipmaking equipment and power infrastructure products surging across major overseas markets, according to data released Sunday by the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA).
Exports of solid-state drives (SSDs) to Singapore jumped 881.8 percent in the first nine months of 2026 from a year earlier, while shipments to Malaysia and the Netherlands surged 352.7 percent and 191.6 percent, respectively.
Semiconductor manufacturing equipment exports to Malaysia rose 188.4 percent, while those to Singapore increased 63.6 percent. Power equipment shipments to the two countries climbed 61.1 percent and 39.6 percent, respectively, reflecting demand for infrastructure supporting AI and advanced manufacturing.
Overall, South Korea's non-semiconductor exports grew 18.6 percent during the January-September period, according to KOTRA's analysis of K-Stat trade data.
Australia recorded the fastest growth among South Korea's 30 largest export destinations, with non-chip shipments rising 71.9 percent to $18.04 billion, driven largely by petroleum products, industrial materials and ships.
The Netherlands followed with a 63.4 percent increase to $10.13 billion, while New Zealand posted 60.7 percent growth. Malaysia and Singapore recorded gains of 45.5 percent and 44.2 percent, respectively.
Consumer products also contributed to the expansion. Korean cosmetics exports to the Netherlands surged 282.5 percent, while shipments to Australia rose 65 percent. Pharmaceutical exports to Australia increased 116.4 percent.
KOTRA President Kang Kyung-sung said double-digit growth in non-chip exports and the spread of high-growth markets across multiple regions were encouraging signs of export diversification.
The figures suggest that South Korea's export growth is broadening beyond semiconductor chips, supported by demand for AI infrastructure, industrial products and Korean consumer goods.
Candice Kim
Candice Kim is a dedicated business and technology reporter specializing in the intersection of high-tech innovation and fast-paced consumer trends. Her core beats span the semiconductor, IT, cosmetics, and retail sectors, where she provides in-depth coverage of industry titans including Samsung Electronics, SK hynix, and LG Electronics, alongside leading consumer brands like Olive Young and Musinsa. Whether analyzing complex silicon supply chains or tracking the latest shifts in beauty and fashion retail, Candice is committed to delivering sharp, accurate reporting that keeps readers informed on the forces shaping today's most dynamic markets.
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