Auto exports down nearly 6 pct on auto parts supply disruptions (opens original article in a new tab)

South Korea's auto exports fell 5.9% in May 2026 due to supply chain disruptions from a factory fire, with mixed regional performance and declining domestic production.

• South Korea's auto exports decreased 5.9% in May 2026 compared to the same month in 2025
• Exports to North America, Latin America, EU, and Middle East declined, while exports to Oceania and Africa increased
• Domestic auto production fell 8.2% in May 2026, with several manufacturers reporting significant production drops
• The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources attributed the decline to a fire at an auto parts factory, expecting improvement in June as supplies normalize