South Korea to expand strategic supply list to 340 items

South Korea will expand its list of strategically important goods from 327 to 340 items as it strengthens supply-chain protection, Finance Minister Lee Hyoung-il said on October 12.

The government also plans to replace its three-tier classification system with two categories: goods under general management and those requiring attention. Lee presented the changes at a meeting of the supply chain stabilization committee.

He said global uncertainties, including the Middle East crisis, should be treated as structural challenges requiring continuing management rather than temporary disruptions. The government intends to identify weaknesses before external shocks spread through supply networks.

Further measures include building strategic stockpiles and diversifying import sources. Lee said officials would closely monitor crude oil and other energy supplies and intervene when necessary. His statement did not announce that a specific shortage had occurred.