Seoul: South Korea's business sentiment worsened in November amid growing concerns over a slowdown in exports and sagging domestic demand, a central bank poll showed Wednesday. The Composite Business Sentiment Index, or CBSI, in all industries for November came to 91.5, down 0.6 point from the figure tallied for the previous month, according to the survey by the Bank of Korea (BOK). The index measures corporate prospects for business conditions, with a reading below 100 indicating that pessimists outnumber optimists.According to Yonhap News Agency, the CBSI among manufacturers fell 0.6 point from a month earlier to 90.6 in November, marking the lowest level since October 2023. Manufacturers cited an increase in inventory stock, tight financial conditions, and the overall economic situation as major reasons for their negative outlook. In contrast, the index for non-manufacturers saw a slight increase of 0.4 point to 92.1, with rising profitability and sales noted as positive factors. However, non-manufacture rs also expressed concerns over the economic situation and tight financing conditions.The economic sentiment index, which reflects sentiment among both consumers and businesses, experienced a minor increase of 0.2 point to stand at 92.7 for November, the data revealed. A BOK official highlighted that companies were cautious of uncertainties following the U.S. presidential election. Some businesses anticipated that Donald Trump's trade policy could negatively impact sectors such as domestic semiconductor, bio, and eco-friendly energy, as well as overall exports.
- October 12, 2026
