S. Korea's March industrial output rises while consumption and investment fall

South Korea's industrial output rose in March, while consumption and investment declined.

According to data released by Statistics Korea on Wednesday, overall production increased point-9 percent on-month.

The gain was due to higher output in chips and pharmaceuticals, offsetting a decline in services.

Retail sales fell 0-point-3 percent due to lower demand for mobile devices, computers, and passenger cars.

Facility investment also dipped point-9 percent, as spending on agriculture and construction-related machinery fell.