韩国芯片出口，创新高

Core Viewpoint - Despite increasing pressure from US tariffs and restrictions, South Korea's semiconductor exports reached a record high in August, driven by strong demand from China and tariff exemptions [2][3]. Group 1: Semiconductor Exports - In August, South Korea's semiconductor exports exceeded $15 billion, marking a nearly one-third increase compared to August 2024 [2]. - The strong performance in semiconductor exports contributed to an overall export figure of $58.4 billion for the month, also a record high [2]. Group 2: Other Export Products - Other major export products, including automobiles and ships, also performed well, with automobile exports rising to $5.5 billion and ship exports reaching $3.14 billion, both setting records for August [2]. Group 3: Impact of US Tariffs - South Korea's exports to the US fell by 12% year-on-year to $8.74 billion, primarily due to tariffs on steel, automobiles, and machinery [3]. - The initial 25% tariff on South Korean goods was negotiated down to 15%, but key products like steel and aluminum still face a 50% tariff [3]. Group 4: Government Response - The South Korean government plans to announce a three-pronged support plan in early September to mitigate the impact of US tariffs on small and medium-sized enterprises [3]. Group 5: Market Reaction - Despite strong export data, stock prices of major South Korean tech companies fell, with Samsung Electronics dropping over 2% and SK Hynix declining more than 4% [3]. - The US Department of Commerce announced the withdrawal of exemptions that allowed these companies to use US technology in their Chinese operations, which could restrict their production capabilities to older generation chips after a 120-day grace period [4].