South Korea's Q2 GDP Growth Beats Estimates, Fueled by Robust IT and Semiconductor Exports

South Korea's economy expanded by 0.6% quarter-on-quarter in the second quarter of 2026, surpassing expectations. This growth was primarily driven by robust exports, particularly in IT products such as semiconductors and machinery equipment, which offset downward pressure from ongoing Middle East conflicts. This positive economic performance has implications for global technology supply chains.