South Korea's trade balance with the U.S. 2000-2024

In 2024, South Korea's trade balance with the United States recorded a surplus that amounted to around ***** billion U.S. dollars. South Korea has become one of the United States’ largest trade partners. The Free Trade Agreement between the two governments came into force in March 2012. As of May 2025, South Korea seeks to delay a decision about tariffs until new presidential elections in June 2025. 

Korea’s export trade with the U.S.

In 2024, the United States was the second most important export trade destination after China. In accordance with the high trade surplus recorded by South Korea, the value of goods exports to the U.S. continued to increase every year. Historically, China and the U.S. were the most important export partner for South Korea, with changes only happening due to domestic or bilateral politics. The effect of U.S. president Trump’s increase of tariffs on the economic relations between the two nations remains to be seen.

Korea’s imports from the U.S. 

Despite the trade balance tipping in clear favor of South Korea, the United States was still one of the most important partners for imports. Overall, the value of goods imported into the country has increased, with a quick recovery from occasional decreases. Next to the imports of goods, the United States have become one of the most important suppliers of foreign direct investment (FDI) for South Korea. Despite this importance, the actual investments were notably lower than the pledged amount.