The latest performance marks an end to years of declining foreign direct investment into Korea, a troubling trend that began in 2004. The latest performance also raises the government's hopes of achieving this year's FDI target of $12 billion.

So what is driving investors to park more money in Korea, especially in times like these? The Ministry of Knowledge Economy says Japanese companies already based in Korea increased investments to expand production facilities. In the case of Asahi Glass, which accounts for 30 percent of the global market for glass used in LCD monitors, it invested $150 million to expand its plant in Korea.

Arirang News