Korea Steel Exports Surge 58% to U.S. as AI Data Center Demand Accelerates

According to South Korea's Ministry of Industry, Trade and Energy, steel exports rose to $2.14 billion in June, marking the first increase in 14 months. The June export volume climbed 9.6% year-over-year, driven primarily by expanded AI data center construction demand in the United States and other overseas markets.

Exports to the U.S. showed particularly strong growth. In the first half of 2026, Korean steel shipments to America surged 58.3%, rising from 1.39 million tons to 2.20 million tons, according to the Korea Iron and Steel Association. Industry analysts expect AI data center expansion to drive demand for reinforcement bars, pipe materials for power supply and cooling systems, and structural steel components.