BOK reports export prices rise 1.1 percent in December
The Bank of Korea reported that the Export Price Index increased by 1.1 percent in December 2025 from the previous month. The Import Price Index also rose by 0.7 percent over the same period.
Export momentum continues
The Bank of Korea's preliminary data for December 2025 shows a continued increase in export prices.
The Export Price Index, measured on a Korean Won basis, rose by 1.1 percent compared to the previous month.
This monthly increase contributed to a significant 5.5 percent rise over the last 12 months.
In contrast, the Import Price Index, also on a KRW basis, saw a more modest increase of 0.7 percent month-on-month.
Its year-on-year growth was considerably lower at 0.3 percent.
The report also notes that on a contract currency basis, export prices increased by 0.4 percent month-on-month, while import prices remained unchanged.
Trade conditions improve
Beyond price movements, trade volumes and values also expanded in December.
The Export Volume Index surged by 11.9 percent year-on-year, accompanied by a 14.8 percent increase in the Export Value Index.
Similarly, the Import Volume Index grew by 8.7 percent year-on-year, with the Import Value Index rising by 5.9 percent.
These movements resulted in an improvement in the country's trade conditions, as the Net Barter Terms of Trade Index increased by 5.4 percent year-on-year.
This indicates that a given quantity of exports could purchase more imports compared to the previous year.
External Tailwinds Strengthen
The robust growth in export prices and volumes signals a strong external demand environment, providing a significant tailwind for the Korean economy.
Subdued import price increases, coupled with improved terms of trade, suggest easing inflationary pressures from abroad.
This combination points to a strengthening trade sector, supporting overall economic stability.