South Korea's GDP Expected to Rebound in Q1 Amid Strong Exports

South Korea's GDP is anticipated to have rebounded in the first quarter following a contraction in the previous quarter, driven by stronger-than-expected goods exports. According to Jin10, a survey conducted by The Wall Street Journal among 15 economists forecasts a quarter-on-quarter GDP growth of 0.9% from January to March, with a year-on-year increase of 2.7%. In contrast, revised data for the fourth quarter of 2025 showed a quarter-on-quarter contraction of 0.2% and a year-on-year growth of 1.6%. Economists also predict a recovery in equipment investment and construction activities during the first quarter. Goldman Sachs economists expect the economy to be impacted by Middle East conflicts starting in the second quarter, citing potential declines in oil and petrochemical production.