Import diminished 11.8 percent to 36.51 billion dollars in the 20-day period, sending the trade deficit to 4.14 billion dollars, according to Korea Customs Service.
The country's export has continued to slide since October last year amid weaker global demand for tech products.
Semiconductor export dipped 39.3 percent during the April 1-20 period compared to the same period of last year, keeping a downward trend since August last year.
Outbound shipment for mobile phones and oil products declined over 20 percent, but automotive export jumped 58.1 percent.
Import for natural gas and semiconductor equipment gained in the 20-day period, but those for crude oil and coal reduced in double digits.
The country's trade balance has stayed in red since March last year amid continued export fall.
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