Surging semiconductor exports are driving the South Korean won higher. This currency appreciation threatens earnings forecasts for major chipmakers, including Samsung Electronics.
Increased US dollar inflows create a currency paradox by boosting the won's value. This shift reduces the total value of overseas earnings when converted back into the local currency.
The dollar-won exchange rate fell from 1,551.2 to 1,344.1 between July 1 and September 11, 2026. This trend creates a significant profitability challenge for Samsung’s core semiconductor division.