Won-Dollar Exchange Rate Holds Above 1,320 Won Amid Chip Export Strength
What happened
The won-dollar exchange rate in Seoul approached the 1,320-won level but did not break below it during daytime trading on October 19, 2026. The dollar closed at 1,330.3 won. Moon Jeong-hee, a senior economist at KB Kookmin Bank, stated that the 1,330 won-dollar rate reflects an easing of the imbalance in dollar supply and demand.
From hani.co.kr
Why it matters
The exchange rate movement is supported by a sizable current account surplus driven by strong chip exports. Moon Jeong-hee noted that the large inflow of chip export earnings into the domestic market contributed to the shift in supply and demand.
From hani.co.kr
Who's involved
- KB Kookmin BankProvided commentary on the exchange rate dynamics and supply/demand balance.
- Samsung ElectronicsIts strong chip exports fuel the current account surplus supporting the won.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- Samsung ElectronicsSpeculative
Strong chip exports could boost Samsung Electronics' profitability.
- KB Kookmin BankSpeculative
Currency fluctuation could impact KB Kookmin Bank's financial risk and foreign exchange operations.
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The entities involved
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Seoul
capital and largest city of South Korea
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KB Kookmin Bank
South Korean banking company