대규모 흑자인데 달러 유입 지체…해외 예금 역대급 급증 탓

South Korea's current account surplus has reached significant levels, yet the expected influx of foreign currency into the domestic market remains sluggish. This discrepancy is primarily attributed to a record-breaking increase in overseas deposits held by domestic companies and financial institutions. Rather than repatriating their export earnings, businesses are choosing to keep their capital in foreign currency accounts abroad. This trend has created a disconnect between the nation's strong trade performance and the actual availability of dollars within the local financial system. Consequently, the anticipated strengthening effect of the trade surplus on the domestic foreign exchange market is being muted.

The retention of export earnings in overseas accounts limits the domestic supply of foreign currency, which can influence exchange rate stability and the effectiveness of national monetary policy.