Semiconductor 'Supercycle' Opens Era of First-Ever Monthly $80B Exports

South Korea's March exports exceeded $80 billion for the first time in history, proving the reality of the semiconductor supercycle. South Korea's exports have broken the monthly $80 billion barrier for the first time ever. According to the 'March 2026 Import and Export Trends' released by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy on April 1, March exports surged 48.3% year-on-year to reach $86.13 billion, breaking all-time highs. This instantly surpassed the previous record of $69.5 billion set last December, marking an unusual milestone by skipping the $70 billion range and directly entering the $80 billion tier. As a result, South Korea's exports have maintained an upward trend for 10 consecutive months since turning positive last June. However, a grave reality coexists behind these dazzling numbers. The energy supply chain crisis due to the prolonged Middle East war, the legislative…