Ministry of Trade Industry and Resources

In February 2026, automobile exports (down 18.5 percent), domestic sales (down 7.2 percent), and production (down 21.0 percent) all declined year-on-year, reflecting three fewer working days due to the Lunar New Year holiday. However, cumulative exports of eco-friendly vehicles in January–February 2026 reached a record USD 4.5 billion, up 20.4 percent year-on-year.

Automobile exports totaled 190,000 units in February, down 18.5 percent year-on-year, while export value fell 20.8 percent to USD 4.8 billion. Despite fewer working days due to the Lunar New Year holiday, eco-friendly vehicle exports posted only a modest decline, down 2.3 percent year-on-year, thanks to strong hybrid exports. By automaker, GM Korea and Renault Korea posted relatively stable results, led by their main export models.

Domestic sales fell 7.2 percent year-on-year to 123,000 units in February. Eco-friendly vehicle sales rose 26.3 percent to 76,000 units, led by electric vehicles, which surged 156.2 percent year-on-year to 36,000 units.

Production totaled 278,000 units in February, down 21.0 percent year-on-year. By model, the Trax recorded the highest output, followed by the Avante and Sportage. All automakers posted year-on-year declines, reflecting fewer working days due to the holiday.