Korean auto exports hit $6bn on strong EV demand

February 19, 2026 (MLN): South Korea’s automobile exports saw a sharp rise in January, climbing 21.7% year-on-year to reach $6.07bn, marked the second-highest value ever recorded for a January.

According to data released today by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources, as reported by APP.

The growth was fueled by robust demand for eco-friendly vehicles, particularly electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid cars, alongside a higher number of working days in January 2026 compared with the previous year.

Last year, the Lunar New Year holiday fell in January, reducing operational days, while this year the extended holiday occurred in February.

EV exports increased 21.2% to $780m, while hybrid car shipments surged 85.5% to $1.71bn, showing the rising global appetite for green mobility solutions.

By market, South Korea’s auto exports to the United States grew 19.2% to $2.66bn, despite the impact of U.S. tariffs.

Exports to the European Union jumped 34.4% to $871m, while shipments to Latin America and Oceania rose 34.1% and 30.2%, reaching $234m and $322m, respectively.

However, exports to Asia dropped 30.1%, totaling $325m.

On the domestic front, vehicle sales reached 120,787 units, marking a 14% increase from January 2025, driven by continued consumer interest in fuel-efficient and eco-friendly models.

The Ministry highlighted that the combined boost from extended working days and growing global demand for green vehicles contributed to the strong export performance, positioning South Korea as a key player in the international electric and hybrid vehicle market.

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