Seoul revised its 2026 growth forecast up to 3%, a full point above its prior call, crediting a semiconductor supercycle and easing Middle East risk. First Vice Finance Minister Lee Hyoung-il says the

What happened: The IMF raised South Korea's 2026 growth forecast to 3.3 percent, citing strong semiconductor exports that more than offset Middle East war fallout. Key numbers: 2026 forecast 3.3 percent, up 0.7 point from July. 2027 forecast 2.8 percent, up 0.3 point. Global growth 3.1 percent. Advanced economies 2.1 percent. Why it matters: The ministry said the revision reflects robust AI hardware and chip exports, and exceeded the 0.4 point increase for advanced economies. It still flagged Middle East war and higher consumer prices as uncertainties. Coverage: 4 outlets in 24h

The IMF raised South Korea's 2026 growth forecast to 3.3 percent, citing strong semiconductor exports that more than offset Middle East war fallout.

The ministry said the revision reflects robust AI hardware and chip exports, and exceeded the 0.4 point increase for advanced economies. It still flagged Middle East war and higher consumer prices as uncertainties.