FX.co ★ South Korea's Manufacturing Sector Contracts in October as PMI Slides to 49.4

South Korea's manufacturing sector has experienced a contraction in October, as evidenced by the S&P Global South Korea Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) sliding to 49.4. This latest figure marks a notable decline from September's position, where the PMI had held steady at 50.7.

The PMI is a crucial economic indicator, providing insight into the manufacturing sector's health, with readings above 50 signaling expansion and below 50 indicating contraction. October’s results show that the sector has contracted for the first time in months, raising concerns over the resilience of the domestic and global economic demands faced by manufacturers.

The updated data, released on November 3, 2025, highlights the challenges facing South Korean manufacturers amidst fluctuating global economic conditions, including supply chain disruptions and shifting consumer demands. It remains to be seen how the sector will adapt in the coming months, but the latest PMI figures indicate a need for strategic adjustments to rebound toward growth.