economy
China vs South Korea Economy 2026 Comparison
China's economy is approximately 13 times larger by GDP ($17.9 trillion vs $1.4 trillion), driven by massive manufacturing scale and population, while South Korea's economy is more innovation-intensive with higher per-capita income ($32,400 vs $12,700) and advanced technology sectors.
CE
China Economy
World's second-largest economy driven by manufacturing, exports, and infrastructure investment
Understanding global manufacturing, supply chain dynamics, emerging market growth, and geopolitical economic influence
Score63%
VS
SK
South Korea Economy
Advanced high-tech economy with world-leading semiconductor and electronics sectors
Analyzing high-tech innovation economies, semiconductor supply chains, developed nation models, and advanced manufacturing sectors
Score63%
Quick Answer
AI SummaryChina's economy is approximately 13 times larger by GDP ($17.9 trillion vs $1.4 trillion), driven by massive manufacturing scale and population, while South Korea's economy is more innovation-intensive with higher per-capita income ($32,400 vs $12,700) and advanced technology sectors.
Our Verdict
AI-assistedChina's economy dominates in absolute scale, manufacturing capacity, and growth trajectory, making it the world's second-largest economy with unmatched global trade influence. South Korea excels in per-capita wealth, technology innovation, and labor market efficiency, offering higher living standards and advanced sector leadership. Choose China for understanding global manufacturing and emerging market dynamics; choose South Korea for studying high-tech innovation and developed economy models.
Community feedback
Was this verdict helpful?
Thanks — we'll use this to improve our verdicts.
C
China Economy
7.9/10
South Korea Economy
7.1/10
S
C
Choose China Economy if
Best pickUnderstanding global manufacturing, supply chain dynamics, emerging market growth, and geopolitical economic influence
S
Choose South Korea Economy if
Analyzing high-tech innovation economies, semiconductor supply chains, developed nation models, and advanced manufacturing sectors
Track this comparison
Get notified when prices change, new specs ship, or our verdict updates.
Triggers: price change new spec verdict update
No spam. Stop anytime.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Nominal GDP (2025):✓ China Economy wins($17.9 trillion vs $1.4 trillion)
- GDP Per Capita (2025):✓ South Korea Economy wins($32,400 vs $12,700)
- Population:✓ China Economy wins(1.426 billion vs 51.6 million)
Key Facts & Figures
162 numeric metrics compared
| Metric | China Economy | South Korea Economy | Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Real GDP Growth Rate (2025)(% annual) | 4.2% | — | — |
| Per Capita Income(USD) | $12,800 | — | — |
| IT Services & Software Exports(USD billion annually) | $89 billion | — | — |
| Foreign Direct Investment (2024)(USD Billions) | $189 billion | — | — |
| Total GDP(trillion USD) | $17-18 | — | — |
| GDP Growth Rate(%) | 4.8% | — | — |
| Per Capita GDP(USD) | $12,720 | — | — |
| Global EV Market Share(%) | 70% | — | — |
| Global Solar Panel Production(%) | ~80% | — | — |
| Tariff Impact on GDP (2026 risk)(percentage points reduction) | -0.5 to -2% | — | — |
| Projected GDP Growth Rate 2026(percent) | 4.5-5.0% | — | — |
| Government Defense Expenditure(USD Billions) | $296.5 billion | — | — |
| Global EV Production Share(%) | 70% | — | — |
| Government Health Expenditure(USD Million) | $620.1 billion | — | — |
| Tariff Impact Risk on GDP(Percentage Points) | 0.5-2.0% | — | — |
| GDP per Capita 2024(USD) | $12,700 | — | — |
| Government Defense Expenditure 2024(billion USD) | $296.5 billion | — | — |
| Government Health Expenditure 2024(billion USD) | $620 billion | — | — |
| Education Expenditure Per Capita 2023(USD) | $525 | — | — |
| Total GDP 2026(trillion USD) | $17.9 | — | — |
| EV Production Share(% of global) | 70% | — | — |
| Solar Panel Manufacturing(% of global) | 82% | — | — |
| Tariff Impact Risk 2026(% GDP reduction) | -0.5 to -2.0% | — | — |
| GDP Growth Rate (2026)(%) | 4.6-4.8% | — | — |
| Defence Expenditure (2024)(billion USD) | €296.5 billion | — | — |
| Education Expenditure Per Capita(USD) | €467 | — | — |
| Global Manufacturing Output(%) | 35% | — | — |
| Solar Panel Production(% of global) | 80%+ | — | — |
| Unemployment Rate Projection(%) | ~5.2% | — | — |
| Per Capita GDP 2026(USD) | $13,500 | — | — |
| Total Government Expenditure 2024(USD Billion) | $5,708.7 | — | — |
| Defense Expenditure 2024(USD Billion) | $296.5 | — | — |
| GDP Growth Rate (2026 Target)(%) | 4.5-5.0% | — | — |
| LFP Battery Production Share(%) | 94% | — | — |
| Tariff Impact Risk to GDP(percentage points) | 0.5-2.0% | — | — |
| AI Adoption Growth Contribution(percentage points) | 0.2-0.3% | — | — |
| Projected GDP Growth Rate (2026)(%) | 4.6-4.8% | — | — |
| Global Solar Panel Manufacturing(%) | 80%+ | — | — |
| Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery Production(%) | 94% | — | — |
| Global Manufacturing Output Share(%) | 28.3% | — | — |
| Potential GDP Loss from Tariffs(USD Billions) | $400-800B | — | — |
| Total Nominal GDP(USD trillions) | $17.7 trillion | — | — |
| Projected GDP Growth (2026)(%) | 4.7% | — | — |
| Global EV Production Market Share(percent) | 70% | — | — |
| Global Solar Panel Manufacturing Share(%) | 80% | — | — |
| Potential Tariff Impact on GDP(USD billion) | $400-800B reduction | — | — |
| Real GDP Growth Rate 2026(%) | 4.8% | — | — |
| Global Solar Panel Production Share(%) | 82% | — | — |
| Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery Production Share(%) | 94% | — | — |
| Potential Tariff Impact on GDP Growth(percentage points) | 0.5-2.0pp | — | — |
| Total GDP(USD trillion) | $17.9 trillion | — | — |
| EV Production (Global Share)(%) | 70% | — | — |
| Solar Panel Production (Global Share)(%) | 80% | — | — |
| Government Debt-to-GDP(%) | 77% | — | — |
| Potential Tariff Impact (2026-2027)(billion USD annual reduction) | $400-800B | — | — |
| Gross Domestic Product (GDP)(USD trillion) | $18.7 trillion | — | — |
| Foreign Direct Investment Inflows (Annual)(USD Billion) | $163.5 billion | — | — |
| Median Age(Years) | 38.8 | — | — |
| Manufacturing Sector Share of Economy(%) | 28% (diversified) | — | — |
| Unemployment Rate(Percentage) | 5.2% | 2.8% | |
| GDP Per Capita(USD) | $12,700 | — | — |
| Nominal GDP 2026(trillion USD) | $20.85 trillion | — | — |
| PPP-Adjusted GDP 2026(trillion USD) | $45.78 trillion | — | — |
| Projected Annual GDP Growth Rate(percent) | 6.0% | — | — |
| Global Economic Ranking 2026(rank) | 2nd | — | — |
| Government Debt-to-GDP Ratio(percent) | 84% | — | — |
| Annual R&D Investment(USD billion) | $680 billion | — | — |
| Share of Global GDP(Percent (%)) | 14.3% | — | — |
| Unemployment Rate Forecast 2026(percent) | ~5.5% | — | — |
| Average EV Cost (Entry Model)(USD (converted)) | $16,800 (119,800 yuan) | — | — |
| Real GDP Growth Rate(%) | 5.0% | — | — |
| GDP Per Capita (Nominal)(USD) | $14,874 | — | — |
| GDP Per Capita 2026(USD) | $14,874 | — | — |
| GDP Gap vs Competitor(USD Trillions) | $11.1 trillion behind | — | — |
| Q1 2026 GDP Growth Rate(Percent Year-over-Year) | 5.0% | — | — |
| Q1 2026 Industrial Output Growth(Percent Year-over-Year) | 6.1% | — | — |
| Global Economic Ranking(Rank) | 2nd | — | — |
| GDP as Percentage of Global Economy(Percent) | ~16-17% of global GDP | — | — |
| Q1 2026 Inflation Rate(Percent) | 0.9% CPI | — | — |
| Unemployment Rate(%) | 5.1% | — | — |
| GDP Growth Rate 2026(%) | 3-4% | — | — |
| GDP per Capita (estimated 2026)(USD) | $14,800+ | — | — |
| Manufacturing Output(% of global share) | 28% | — | — |
| Foreign Direct Investment Inflows(USD billion) | $189 billion | — | — |
| Population Over 65 Years(Percent) | 14% | — | — |
| Total Population(millions) | 1,420 million | — | — |
| Manufacturing Output Share(Percent of Global) | 28% | — | — |
| Total Debt-to-GDP Ratio(%) | 282% | — | — |
| Annual Exports(USD Trillion) | $3.6 trillion | — | — |
| R&D Spending(% of GDP) | $652 billion | — | — |
| Debt-to-GDP Ratio(%) | 282% | — | — |
| Trade Balance(USD billion) | +$631 billion (surplus) | — | — |
| Nominal GDP(USD Trillions) | $17.9T | $1.4T | |
| Global Manufacturing Share(percent) | 28% | — | — |
| Fortune 500 Companies(count) | 142 companies | — | — |
| Manufacturing as % of GDP(Percent) | 28.4% | — | — |
| Total Annual Exports(USD trillion) | $3.8 trillion | — | — |
| National Debt(USD trillion) | $10.8 trillion | — | — |
| Nominal GDP (2024)(USD trillions) | $17.9 trillion | — | — |
| Annual GDP Growth Rate(%) | 4.8% | — | — |
| Manufacturing Sector Share(Percent of GDP (%)) | 28.4% | — | — |
| Service Sector Share(% of GDP) | 54.8% | — | — |
| Foreign Direct Investment (Annual)(USD billion) | $163 billion | — | — |
| Projected GDP in 2030(USD trillion) | $22.8 trillion | — | — |
| Foreign Exchange Reserves(USD trillion) | $3.24 trillion | — | — |
| Manufacturing Output (Global Share)(Percent) | 28% | — | — |
| Stock Market Capitalization(USD Trillion) | $8.7 trillion | — | — |
| Unemployment Rate (2024)(percent) | 5.1% | — | — |
| Trade Balance (Annual)(USD Billions) | +$632 billion (surplus) | — | — |
| Debt-to-GDP Ratio(Percent) | 77% | — | — |
| Renewable Energy Capacity(GW) | 1,480 GW | — | — |
| Average Annual Wage(USD) | $11,500 | — | — |
| Population(Billions) | 1.426 billion | 51.6 million | |
| GDP at Purchasing Power Parity(USD trillion) | $28.3 trillion | — | — |
| Global Export Share(% of global exports) | 14.8% | — | — |
| Annual Patent Filings(Millions) | 1,200 thousand | — | — |
| Foreign Direct Investment Inflows(billion USD) | $163 billion | — | — |
| GDP by Purchasing Power Parity(USD Trillions) | $34.7 trillion | — | — |
| Annual Trade Balance(USD Billions) | +$631 billion | — | — |
| Patent Filings in Technology(Annual count) | 687,231 | — | — |
| Foreign Direct Investment Annual Inflow(USD Billions) | $189 billion | — | — |
| Annual Real GDP Growth Rate(%) | 5.1% | — | — |
| Real GDP Growth Rate (2024)(Percent) | 5.3% | — | — |
| Stock Market Capitalization (2024)(USD trillions) | $15.2 trillion | — | — |
| Total Trade Volume (2024)(USD Trillions) | $6.8 trillion | — | — |
| Tech Sector Market Capitalization (Top 7 Companies)(USD Trillion) | $2.8 trillion | — | — |
| Average Annual GDP Growth Rate (2010-2023)(%) | 6.8% | — | — |
| Purchasing Power Parity GDP(USD trillion) | $31.6 trillion | — | — |
| Global Economic Share(%) | 16% of world GDP | — | — |
| Foreign Direct Investment Inflow (2023)(USD Billion) | $163 billion | — | — |
| Annual R&D Spending(USD Billion) | $696 billion | — | — |
| GDP Per Capita(USD) | $12,700 | $32,400 | |
| Real GDP Growth Rate(Percentage) | 5.0% | 2.3% | |
| Public Debt as Percentage of GDP(%) | 77% | — | — |
| Foreign Direct Investment(USD billions annually) | $163 billion | — | — |
| Public Debt to GDP Ratio(percent) | 77% | — | — |
| Technology Sector Market Cap(USD trillions) | $4.2 trillion | — | — |
| Working Age Population(millions) | 920 million | — | — |
| Nominal GDP (2026)(USD trillions) | $17.9 trillion | — | — |
| Foreign Direct Investment (2025)(USD billions) | $163 billion | — | — |
| Tech Sector Market Cap(USD trillions) | $3.8 trillion | — | — |
| GDP Per Capita (2024)(USD) | $12,720 | — | — |
| Global Manufacturing Share (2024)(percent) | 28% | — | — |
| Patent Filings Annually (2023)(thousand filings) | 1,820,000 | — | — |
| Inflation Rate (2024)(percent) | 0.2% | — | — |
| Foreign Currency Reserves(USD trillions) | $3.2 trillion | — | — |
| Total GDP (Nominal)(USD Trillion) | $17.9 trillion | — | — |
| GDP Per Capita (PPP)(USD) | $12,720 | — | — |
| Patent Filings (2024)(Thousands) | 1,200,000 | — | — |
| Average Annual Wage (Tech Sector)(USD) | $38,000 | — | — |
| Manufacturing Output(% of global) | $4.1 trillion | — | — |
| Global Trade Volume Share(%) | 12.4% | — | — |
| Federal Debt-to-GDP Ratio(%) | 77% | — | — |
| Nominal Gross Domestic Product(trillion USD) | $23.5 trillion | — | — |
| PPP-Adjusted GDP(trillion USD) | $27.4 trillion | — | — |
| Technology & IT Sector as % of GDP(%) | 8.7% | — | — |
| National Debt to GDP Ratio(%) | 77% | — | — |
| Patent Applications Filed (2023)(Count (thousands)) | 1,750,000 | — | — |
| Median Population Age(Years) | 38.8 years | — | — |
| Manufacturing Exports(USD Trillions) | $3.6T | $680B | |
| Semiconductor Market Share(Percentage) | 8-10% | 18-20% | |
| Automotive Production(Million vehicles annually) | 30 million | 3.7 million |
Sourced from publicly available data ·
Key Differences
7 attributes compared head-to-head
CE
4China EconomyChina Economy leads
SK
3South Korea EconomyChina Economy
Attribute
South Korea Economy
- $17.9 trillion(winner)Nominal GDP (2025)$1.4 trillion
- $12,700GDP Per Capita (2025)$32,400(winner)
- 1.426 billion(winner)Population51.6 million
- 5.0%(winner)Real GDP Growth Rate (2025)2.3%
- $3.6 trillion(winner)Manufacturing Export Value (2024)$680 billion
- 8-10%Semiconductor Industry Global Market Share18-20%(winner)
- 5.2%Unemployment Rate (2025)2.8%(winner)
- Nominal GDP (2025)
China Economy
$17.9 trillion(winner)
South Korea Economy
$1.4 trillion
- GDP Per Capita (2025)
China Economy
$12,700
South Korea Economy
$32,400(winner)
- Population
China Economy
1.426 billion(winner)
South Korea Economy
51.6 million
- Real GDP Growth Rate (2025)
China Economy
5.0%(winner)
South Korea Economy
2.3%
- Manufacturing Export Value (2024)
China Economy
$3.6 trillion(winner)
South Korea Economy
$680 billion
- Semiconductor Industry Global Market Share
China Economy
8-10%
South Korea Economy
18-20%(winner)
- Unemployment Rate (2025)
China Economy
5.2%
South Korea Economy
2.8%(winner)
Full Comparison
| Attribute | China Economy | South Korea Economy |
|---|---|---|
| Real GDP Growth Rate (2025)(% annual) | 4.2% | — |
| Per Capita Income(USD) | $12,800 | — |
| GDP per Capita 2024(USD) | $12,700 | — |
| GDP Per Capita 2026(USD) | $14,874 | — |
| GDP per Capita (estimated 2026)(USD) | $14,800+ | — |
| GDP Per Capita(USD) | $12,700 | $32,400(winner) |
Show 2 more attributesGDP Per Capita (2024)(USD) $12,720 — GDP Per Capita (PPP)(USD) $12,720 — | ||
| IT Services & Software Exports(USD billion annually) | $89 billion | — |
| Foreign Direct Investment (2024)(USD Billions) | $189 billion | — |
| Total GDP(trillion USD) | $17-18 | — |
| GDP Growth Rate(%) | 4.8% | — |
| Projected GDP Growth Rate 2026(percent) | 4.5-5.0% | — |
| Projected GDP Growth Rate (2026)(%) | 4.6-4.8% | — |
| Real GDP Growth Rate(%) | 5.0% | — |
| Annual GDP Growth Rate(%) | 4.8% | — |
Show 1 more attributeReal GDP Growth Rate (2024)(Percent) 5.3% — | ||
| Per Capita GDP(USD) | $12,720 | — |
| Per Capita GDP 2026(USD) | $13,500 | — |
| GDP Per Capita (Nominal)(USD) | $14,874 | — |
| Global EV Market Share(%) | 70% | — |
| Global Solar Panel Production(%) | ~80% | — |
| Solar Panel Production(% of global) | 80%+ | — |
| Global Solar Panel Manufacturing(%) | 80%+ | — |
| AI Chip Technology Leadership(competitive ranking) | Limited by US export controls, advancing in AI adoption | — |
| AI Adoption Growth Contribution(percentage points) | 0.2-0.3% | — |
| Tech Sector Market Cap(USD trillions) | $3.8 trillion | — |
| Tariff Impact on GDP (2026 risk)(percentage points reduction) | -0.5 to -2% | — |
| Government Defense Expenditure(USD Billions) | $296.5 billion | — |
| Government Defense Expenditure 2024(billion USD) | $296.5 billion | — |
| Defence Expenditure (2024)(billion USD) | €296.5 billion | — |
| Total Government Expenditure 2024(USD Billion) | $5,708.7 | — |
| Global EV Production Share(%) | 70% | — |
| Government Health Expenditure(USD Million) | $620.1 billion | — |
| Tariff Impact Risk on GDP(Percentage Points) | 0.5-2.0% | — |
| Potential GDP Loss from Tariffs(USD Billions) | $400-800B | — |
| Potential Tariff Impact on GDP(USD billion) | $400-800B reduction | — |
| Semiconductor Technology Tier(nanometers) | Restricted to 7nm+ (export controls) | — |
| EV Production Share(% of global) | 70% | — |
| Government Health Expenditure 2024(billion USD) | $620 billion | — |
| Education Expenditure Per Capita 2023(USD) | $525 | — |
| Education Expenditure Per Capita(USD) | €467 | — |
| Total GDP 2026(trillion USD) | $17.9 | — |
| Total Nominal GDP(USD trillions) | $17.7 trillion | — |
| Total GDP(USD trillion) | $17.9 trillion | — |
| Nominal GDP 2026(trillion USD) | $20.85 trillion | — |
| Nominal GDP(USD Trillions) | $17.9T(winner) | $1.4T |
Show 6 more attributesNominal GDP (2024)(USD trillions) $17.9 trillion — GDP by Purchasing Power Parity(USD Trillions) $34.7 trillion — Nominal GDP (2026)(USD trillions) $17.9 trillion — Total GDP (Nominal)(USD Trillion) $17.9 trillion — Nominal Gross Domestic Product(trillion USD) $23.5 trillion — PPP-Adjusted GDP(trillion USD) $27.4 trillion — | ||
| Solar Panel Manufacturing(% of global) | 82% | — |
| Tariff Impact Risk 2026(% GDP reduction) | -0.5 to -2.0% | — |
| Semiconductor Technology Leadership(index (0-100)) | Limited by US export controls | — |
| Global EV Production Market Share(percent) | 70% | — |
| GDP Growth Rate (2026)(%) | 4.6-4.8% | — |
| GDP Growth Rate (2026 Target)(%) | 4.5-5.0% | — |
| Annual Real GDP Growth Rate(%) | 5.1% | — |
| Real GDP Growth Rate(Percentage) | 5.0%(winner) | 2.3% |
| Global Manufacturing Output(%) | 35% | — |
| Unemployment Rate Projection(%) | ~5.2% | — |
| Unemployment Rate(Percentage) | 5.2% | 2.8%(winner) |
| Unemployment Rate Forecast 2026(percent) | ~5.5% | — |
| Unemployment Rate(%) | 5.1% | — |
| Defense Expenditure 2024(USD Billion) | $296.5 | — |
| LFP Battery Production Share(%) | 94% | — |
| Tariff Impact Risk to GDP(percentage points) | 0.5-2.0% | — |
| Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery Production(%) | 94% | — |
| Global Manufacturing Output Share(%) | 28.3% | — |
| Manufacturing Output(% of global share) | 28% | — |
| Global Manufacturing Share(percent) | 28% | — |
| Projected GDP Growth (2026)(%) | 4.7% | — |
| Projected Annual GDP Growth Rate(percent) | 6.0% | — |
| Global Solar Panel Manufacturing Share(%) | 80% | — |
| Global Solar Panel Production Share(%) | 82% | — |
| Advanced Semiconductor Leadership(Market Share %) | Limited by US export controls | — |
| Real GDP Growth Rate 2026(%) | 4.8% | — |
| Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery Production Share(%) | 94% | — |
| Potential Tariff Impact on GDP Growth(percentage points) | 0.5-2.0pp | — |
| EV Production (Global Share)(%) | 70% | — |
| Solar Panel Production (Global Share)(%) | 80% | — |
| Government Debt-to-GDP(%) | 77% | — |
| Government Debt-to-GDP Ratio(percent) | 84% | — |
| Debt-to-GDP Ratio(%) | 282% | — |
| National Debt(USD trillion) | $10.8 trillion | — |
| Debt-to-GDP Ratio(Percent) | 77% | — |
Show 4 more attributesPublic Debt as Percentage of GDP(%) 77% — Public Debt to GDP Ratio(percent) 77% — Federal Debt-to-GDP Ratio(%) 77% — National Debt to GDP Ratio(%) 77% — | ||
| Potential Tariff Impact (2026-2027)(billion USD annual reduction) | $400-800B | — |
| Gross Domestic Product (GDP)(USD trillion) | $18.7 trillion | — |
| Foreign Direct Investment Inflows (Annual)(USD Billion) | $163.5 billion | — |
| Median Age(Years) | 38.8 | — |
| Population Over 65 Years(Percent) | 14% | — |
| Total Population(millions) | 1,420 million | — |
| Population(Billions) | 1.426 billion | 51.6 million |
| Median Population Age(Years) | 38.8 years | — |
| Manufacturing Sector Share of Economy(%) | 28% (diversified) | — |
| Manufacturing as % of GDP(Percent) | 28.4% | — |
| Manufacturing Sector Share(Percent of GDP (%)) | 28.4% | — |
| Service Sector Share(% of GDP) | 54.8% | — |
| GDP Per Capita(USD) | $12,700 | — |
| PPP-Adjusted GDP 2026(trillion USD) | $45.78 trillion | — |
| Global Economic Ranking 2026(rank) | 2nd | — |
| Global Economic Ranking(Rank) | 2nd | — |
| Annual R&D Investment(USD billion) | $680 billion | — |
| Annual Patent Filings(Millions) | 1,200 thousand | — |
| Patent Filings in Technology(Annual count) | 687,231 | — |
| Patent Filings Annually (2023)(thousand filings) | 1,820,000 | — |
| Patent Filings (2024)(Thousands) | 1,200,000 | — |
Show 2 more attributesTechnology & IT Sector as % of GDP(%) 8.7% — Patent Applications Filed (2023)(Count (thousands)) 1,750,000 — | ||
| Share of Global GDP(Percent (%)) | 14.3% | — |
| Global Economic Share(%) | 16% of world GDP | — |
| Primary Tech Focus Area | EV manufacturing, 5G, solar, semiconductors | — |
| Average EV Cost (Entry Model)(USD (converted)) | $16,800 (119,800 yuan) | — |
| GDP Gap vs Competitor(USD Trillions) | $11.1 trillion behind | — |
| Q1 2026 GDP Growth Rate(Percent Year-over-Year) | 5.0% | — |
| Q1 2026 Industrial Output Growth(Percent Year-over-Year) | 6.1% | — |
| GDP as Percentage of Global Economy(Percent) | ~16-17% of global GDP | — |
| Q1 2026 Inflation Rate(Percent) | 0.9% CPI | — |
| Inflation Rate (2024)(percent) | 0.2% | — |
| GDP Growth Rate 2026(%) | 3-4% | — |
| Quarterly GDP Growth (Q1 2026)(% (q/q, SAAR)) | Data not available | — |
| GDP Advantage Over Rival(USD Trillion) | 36% smaller than US | — |
| Foreign Direct Investment Inflows(USD billion) | $189 billion | — |
| Manufacturing Output Share(Percent of Global) | 28% | — |
| Manufacturing Output (Global Share)(Percent) | 28% | — |
| Global Manufacturing Share (2024)(percent) | 28% | — |
| Total Debt-to-GDP Ratio(%) | 282% | — |
| Annual Exports(USD Trillion) | $3.6 trillion | — |
| Trade Balance (Annual)(USD Billions) | +$632 billion (surplus) | — |
| Global Trade Volume Share(%) | 12.4% | — |
| Global Trade Ranking(Position) | 2nd largest exporter (after USA) | — |
| R&D Spending(% of GDP) | $652 billion | — |
| Annual R&D Spending(USD Billion) | $696 billion | — |
| Trade Balance(USD billion) | +$631 billion (surplus) | — |
| Fortune 500 Companies(count) | 142 companies | — |
| Total Annual Exports(USD trillion) | $3.8 trillion | — |
| Global Export Share(% of global exports) | 14.8% | — |
| Annual Trade Balance(USD Billions) | +$631 billion | — |
| Total Trade Volume (2024)(USD Trillions) | $6.8 trillion | — |
| Manufacturing Exports(USD Trillions) | $3.6T(winner) | $680B |
| Foreign Direct Investment (Annual)(USD billion) | $163 billion | — |
| Projected GDP in 2030(USD trillion) | $22.8 trillion | — |
| Foreign Exchange Reserves(USD trillion) | $3.24 trillion | — |
| Stock Market Capitalization(USD Trillion) | $8.7 trillion | — |
| Stock Market Capitalization (2024)(USD trillions) | $15.2 trillion | — |
| Unemployment Rate (2024)(percent) | 5.1% | — |
| Renewable Energy Capacity(GW) | 1,480 GW | — |
| Average Annual Wage(USD) | $11,500 | — |
| GDP at Purchasing Power Parity(USD trillion) | $28.3 trillion | — |
| Foreign Direct Investment Inflows(billion USD) | $163 billion | — |
| Foreign Direct Investment Annual Inflow(USD Billions) | $189 billion | — |
| Tech Sector Market Capitalization (Top 7 Companies)(USD Trillion) | $2.8 trillion | — |
| Average Annual GDP Growth Rate (2010-2023)(%) | 6.8% | — |
| Purchasing Power Parity GDP(USD trillion) | $31.6 trillion | — |
| Foreign Direct Investment Inflow (2023)(USD Billion) | $163 billion | — |
| Foreign Direct Investment(USD billions annually) | $163 billion | — |
| Technology Sector Market Cap(USD trillions) | $4.2 trillion | — |
| Working Age Population(millions) | 920 million | — |
| Foreign Direct Investment (2025)(USD billions) | $163 billion | — |
| Foreign Currency Reserves(USD trillions) | $3.2 trillion | — |
| Average Annual Wage (Tech Sector)(USD) | $38,000 | — |
| Manufacturing Output(% of global) | $4.1 trillion | — |
| Semiconductor Market Share(Percentage) | 8-10% | 18-20%(winner) |
| Automotive Production(Million vehicles annually) | 30 million(winner) | 3.7 million |
CChina Economy
SSouth Korea Economy
Real GDP Growth Rate (2025)(% annual)
4.2%
—
Per Capita Income(USD)
$12,800
—
GDP per Capita 2024(USD)
$12,700
—
GDP Per Capita 2026(USD)
$14,874
—
GDP per Capita (estimated 2026)(USD)
$14,800+
—
GDP Per Capita(USD)
$12,700
$32,400
Show 2 more attributes
GDP Per Capita (2024)(USD)
$12,720
—
GDP Per Capita (PPP)(USD)
$12,720
—
IT Services & Software Exports(USD billion annually)
$89 billion
—
Foreign Direct Investment (2024)(USD Billions)
$189 billion
—
Total GDP(trillion USD)
$17-18
—
GDP Growth Rate(%)
4.8%
—
Projected GDP Growth Rate 2026(percent)
4.5-5.0%
—
Projected GDP Growth Rate (2026)(%)
4.6-4.8%
—
Real GDP Growth Rate(%)
5.0%
—
Annual GDP Growth Rate(%)
4.8%
—
Show 1 more attribute
Real GDP Growth Rate (2024)(Percent)
5.3%
—
Per Capita GDP(USD)
$12,720
—
Per Capita GDP 2026(USD)
$13,500
—
GDP Per Capita (Nominal)(USD)
$14,874
—
Global EV Market Share(%)
70%
—
Global Solar Panel Production(%)
~80%
—
Solar Panel Production(% of global)
80%+
—
Global Solar Panel Manufacturing(%)
80%+
—
AI Chip Technology Leadership(competitive ranking)
Limited by US export controls, advancing in AI adoption
—
AI Adoption Growth Contribution(percentage points)
0.2-0.3%
—
Tech Sector Market Cap(USD trillions)
$3.8 trillion
—
Tariff Impact on GDP (2026 risk)(percentage points reduction)
-0.5 to -2%
—
Government Defense Expenditure(USD Billions)
$296.5 billion
—
Government Defense Expenditure 2024(billion USD)
$296.5 billion
—
Defence Expenditure (2024)(billion USD)
€296.5 billion
—
Total Government Expenditure 2024(USD Billion)
$5,708.7
—
Global EV Production Share(%)
70%
—
Government Health Expenditure(USD Million)
$620.1 billion
—
Tariff Impact Risk on GDP(Percentage Points)
0.5-2.0%
—
Potential GDP Loss from Tariffs(USD Billions)
$400-800B
—
Potential Tariff Impact on GDP(USD billion)
$400-800B reduction
—
Semiconductor Technology Tier(nanometers)
Restricted to 7nm+ (export controls)
—
EV Production Share(% of global)
70%
—
Government Health Expenditure 2024(billion USD)
$620 billion
—
Education Expenditure Per Capita 2023(USD)
$525
—
Education Expenditure Per Capita(USD)
€467
—
Total GDP 2026(trillion USD)
$17.9
—
Total Nominal GDP(USD trillions)
$17.7 trillion
—
Total GDP(USD trillion)
$17.9 trillion
—
Nominal GDP 2026(trillion USD)
$20.85 trillion
—
Nominal GDP(USD Trillions)
$17.9T
$1.4T
Show 6 more attributes
Nominal GDP (2024)(USD trillions)
$17.9 trillion
—
GDP by Purchasing Power Parity(USD Trillions)
$34.7 trillion
—
Nominal GDP (2026)(USD trillions)
$17.9 trillion
—
Total GDP (Nominal)(USD Trillion)
$17.9 trillion
—
Nominal Gross Domestic Product(trillion USD)
$23.5 trillion
—
PPP-Adjusted GDP(trillion USD)
$27.4 trillion
—
Solar Panel Manufacturing(% of global)
82%
—
Tariff Impact Risk 2026(% GDP reduction)
-0.5 to -2.0%
—
Semiconductor Technology Leadership(index (0-100))
Limited by US export controls
—
Global EV Production Market Share(percent)
70%
—
GDP Growth Rate (2026)(%)
4.6-4.8%
—
GDP Growth Rate (2026 Target)(%)
4.5-5.0%
—
Annual Real GDP Growth Rate(%)
5.1%
—
Real GDP Growth Rate(Percentage)
5.0%
2.3%
Global Manufacturing Output(%)
35%
—
Unemployment Rate Projection(%)
~5.2%
—
Unemployment Rate(Percentage)
5.2%
2.8%
Unemployment Rate Forecast 2026(percent)
~5.5%
—
Unemployment Rate(%)
5.1%
—
Defense Expenditure 2024(USD Billion)
$296.5
—
LFP Battery Production Share(%)
94%
—
Tariff Impact Risk to GDP(percentage points)
0.5-2.0%
—
Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery Production(%)
94%
—
Global Manufacturing Output Share(%)
28.3%
—
Manufacturing Output(% of global share)
28%
—
Global Manufacturing Share(percent)
28%
—
Projected GDP Growth (2026)(%)
4.7%
—
Projected Annual GDP Growth Rate(percent)
6.0%
—
Global Solar Panel Manufacturing Share(%)
80%
—
Global Solar Panel Production Share(%)
82%
—
Advanced Semiconductor Leadership(Market Share %)
Limited by US export controls
—
Real GDP Growth Rate 2026(%)
4.8%
—
Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery Production Share(%)
94%
—
Potential Tariff Impact on GDP Growth(percentage points)
0.5-2.0pp
—
EV Production (Global Share)(%)
70%
—
Solar Panel Production (Global Share)(%)
80%
—
Government Debt-to-GDP(%)
77%
—
Government Debt-to-GDP Ratio(percent)
84%
—
Debt-to-GDP Ratio(%)
282%
—
National Debt(USD trillion)
$10.8 trillion
—
Debt-to-GDP Ratio(Percent)
77%
—
Show 4 more attributes
Public Debt as Percentage of GDP(%)
77%
—
Public Debt to GDP Ratio(percent)
77%
—
Federal Debt-to-GDP Ratio(%)
77%
—
National Debt to GDP Ratio(%)
77%
—
Potential Tariff Impact (2026-2027)(billion USD annual reduction)
$400-800B
—
Gross Domestic Product (GDP)(USD trillion)
$18.7 trillion
—
Foreign Direct Investment Inflows (Annual)(USD Billion)
$163.5 billion
—
Median Age(Years)
38.8
—
Population Over 65 Years(Percent)
14%
—
Total Population(millions)
1,420 million
—
Population(Billions)
1.426 billion
51.6 million
Median Population Age(Years)
38.8 years
—
Manufacturing Sector Share of Economy(%)
28% (diversified)
—
Manufacturing as % of GDP(Percent)
28.4%
—
Manufacturing Sector Share(Percent of GDP (%))
28.4%
—
Service Sector Share(% of GDP)
54.8%
—
GDP Per Capita(USD)
$12,700
—
PPP-Adjusted GDP 2026(trillion USD)
$45.78 trillion
—
Global Economic Ranking 2026(rank)
2nd
—
Global Economic Ranking(Rank)
2nd
—
Annual R&D Investment(USD billion)
$680 billion
—
Annual Patent Filings(Millions)
1,200 thousand
—
Patent Filings in Technology(Annual count)
687,231
—
Patent Filings Annually (2023)(thousand filings)
1,820,000
—
Patent Filings (2024)(Thousands)
1,200,000
—
Show 2 more attributes
Technology & IT Sector as % of GDP(%)
8.7%
—
Patent Applications Filed (2023)(Count (thousands))
1,750,000
—
Share of Global GDP(Percent (%))
14.3%
—
Global Economic Share(%)
16% of world GDP
—
Primary Tech Focus Area
EV manufacturing, 5G, solar, semiconductors
—
Average EV Cost (Entry Model)(USD (converted))
$16,800 (119,800 yuan)
—
GDP Gap vs Competitor(USD Trillions)
$11.1 trillion behind
—
Q1 2026 GDP Growth Rate(Percent Year-over-Year)
5.0%
—
Q1 2026 Industrial Output Growth(Percent Year-over-Year)
6.1%
—
GDP as Percentage of Global Economy(Percent)
~16-17% of global GDP
—
Q1 2026 Inflation Rate(Percent)
0.9% CPI
—
Inflation Rate (2024)(percent)
0.2%
—
GDP Growth Rate 2026(%)
3-4%
—
Quarterly GDP Growth (Q1 2026)(% (q/q, SAAR))
Data not available
—
GDP Advantage Over Rival(USD Trillion)
36% smaller than US
—
Foreign Direct Investment Inflows(USD billion)
$189 billion
—
Manufacturing Output Share(Percent of Global)
28%
—
Manufacturing Output (Global Share)(Percent)
28%
—
Global Manufacturing Share (2024)(percent)
28%
—
Total Debt-to-GDP Ratio(%)
282%
—
Annual Exports(USD Trillion)
$3.6 trillion
—
Trade Balance (Annual)(USD Billions)
+$632 billion (surplus)
—
Global Trade Volume Share(%)
12.4%
—
Global Trade Ranking(Position)
2nd largest exporter (after USA)
—
R&D Spending(% of GDP)
$652 billion
—
Annual R&D Spending(USD Billion)
$696 billion
—
Trade Balance(USD billion)
+$631 billion (surplus)
—
Fortune 500 Companies(count)
142 companies
—
Total Annual Exports(USD trillion)
$3.8 trillion
—
Global Export Share(% of global exports)
14.8%
—
Annual Trade Balance(USD Billions)
+$631 billion
—
Total Trade Volume (2024)(USD Trillions)
$6.8 trillion
—
Manufacturing Exports(USD Trillions)
$3.6T
$680B
Foreign Direct Investment (Annual)(USD billion)
$163 billion
—
Projected GDP in 2030(USD trillion)
$22.8 trillion
—
Foreign Exchange Reserves(USD trillion)
$3.24 trillion
—
Stock Market Capitalization(USD Trillion)
$8.7 trillion
—
Stock Market Capitalization (2024)(USD trillions)
$15.2 trillion
—
Unemployment Rate (2024)(percent)
5.1%
—
Renewable Energy Capacity(GW)
1,480 GW
—
Average Annual Wage(USD)
$11,500
—
GDP at Purchasing Power Parity(USD trillion)
$28.3 trillion
—
Foreign Direct Investment Inflows(billion USD)
$163 billion
—
Foreign Direct Investment Annual Inflow(USD Billions)
$189 billion
—
Tech Sector Market Capitalization (Top 7 Companies)(USD Trillion)
$2.8 trillion
—
Average Annual GDP Growth Rate (2010-2023)(%)
6.8%
—
Purchasing Power Parity GDP(USD trillion)
$31.6 trillion
—
Foreign Direct Investment Inflow (2023)(USD Billion)
$163 billion
—
Foreign Direct Investment(USD billions annually)
$163 billion
—
Technology Sector Market Cap(USD trillions)
$4.2 trillion
—
Working Age Population(millions)
920 million
—
Foreign Direct Investment (2025)(USD billions)
$163 billion
—
Foreign Currency Reserves(USD trillions)
$3.2 trillion
—
Average Annual Wage (Tech Sector)(USD)
$38,000
—
Manufacturing Output(% of global)
$4.1 trillion
—
Semiconductor Market Share(Percentage)
8-10%
18-20%
Automotive Production(Million vehicles annually)
30 million
3.7 million
Pros & Cons
10 pros·6 cons across both
CE
SK
CE
China Economy
+5-3
Pros
- Nominal GDP of $17.9 trillion (2nd globally after USA)
- 5.0% real GDP growth rate significantly outpacing developed economies
- $3.6 trillion in annual manufacturing exports dominating global supply chains
- Massive consumer market of 1.426 billion people creating domestic demand
- World's largest automotive production at 30 million vehicles annually
Cons
- GDP per capita of only $12,700 reflects uneven wealth distribution
- Environmental degradation from rapid industrialization and coal dependency
- Slowing population growth and aging demographics pressuring future growth
SK
South Korea Economy
+5-3
Pros
- GDP per capita of $32,400 places it among wealthiest developed nations
- 18-20% global semiconductor market share (Samsung, SK Hynix leadership)
- World's largest shipbuilding industry controlling 34% of global market
- 2.8% unemployment rate indicating tight, efficient labor market
- Top-3 global leader in smartphone manufacturing and display technology
Cons
- Nominal GDP of only $1.4 trillion limits overall economic influence
- Slowing growth at 2.3% reflects mature economy saturation
- Heavy dependence on semiconductor and electronics exports creating concentration risk
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questions
China's economy is 13x larger primarily due to its 28x larger population (1.426 billion vs 51.6 million) and massive manufacturing scale producing goods for global consumption. China generates $3.6 trillion in annual exports versus South Korea's $680 billion. However, this size advantage is offset by much lower GDP per capita ($12,700 vs $32,400), indicating less wealth per person.
Resources & Learn More
Curated sources to dive deeper
Wikipedia
Related Comparisons
12 more to explore
US Economy vs China Economy
economyUS Economy vs China Economy
economyUS Economy vs China Economy 2026
economyUS vs China Economic Growth
economyChina vs USA Economy 2026
economyUS vs China Economy 2026
economyUnited States vs China GDP 2026
economyChina vs Japan Economy
economyUS Economy vs China Economy 2026
economyUS Economy vs China Economy
economyUS Economy vs China Economy 2026
economyUS Economy vs China Economy
economy
Explore More
Related comparisons and categories
Explore Entities
More Economy
AI generated