Official data released on Tuesday shows South Korea's exports of information and communication technology (ICT) products soared in the first half of the year, driven by the artificial intelligence boom, reaching a record high of $253.9 billion, a year-on-year increase of 120.5%.

According to the figures, ICT imports grew by 31.3% to $93.2 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of $160.7 billion for the sector.

Semiconductor exports surged by 162.5% to $192.4 billion, benefiting from robust demand for AI chips and elevated memory prices.

Exports of computers and communication equipment jumped by 233.8% year-on-year, surpassing the $20 billion mark within a six-month period for the first time. The increase was also attributed to higher shipments of solid-state drives (SSDs) used in AI infrastructure.

Mobile phone exports rose by 38%, while display panel exports increased by 3.8%.

By destination, ICT exports to mainland China and Hong Kong grew by 141% compared to the same period last year. Exports to Vietnam increased by 74.5%, and exports to the United States surged by 215.6%.

In June alone, South Korea exported $57.3 billion worth of ICT products, generating a monthly trade surplus of $39.1 billion for the sector, setting a new record for a single month.