The Korean won has strengthened against the U.S. dollar amid an increase in dollar supply driven by robust exports, central bank data showed Sunday. The Korean won traded at an average of 1,342.6 won per dollar during the first 12 trading days of October, marking the lowest since September 2024, when the average won-dollar exchange rate was 1,332.8 won, according to data from the Bank of Korea (BOK) Economic Statistics System. The monthly average exchange rate rose to 1,492.5 won in March in the aftermath of the war in the Middle East and to 1,528 won in June amid rising crude oil prices and foreign stock selling. The won has strengthened since as exporters sold dollars in the market, with the monthly average exchange rate falling to 1,488.9 won in July, 1,404.4 won in August and 1,358.8 won in September. The exchange rate fell further to 1,328.9 won as of 7:20 p.m. Friday, marking the lowest point since 1,317.1 won recorded on Oct. 2, 2024. Experts said Korea's trade surplus and ample dollar supply have supported the won's appreciation. "The foreign exchange market saw a trend of dollar s