South Korean companies' business outlook for August has fallen compared to the month before.
According to the Bank of Korea, the business survey index for all industries came to 69 for August, down four points on-month.
That's the lowest level since February.
The reading is far below 100, meaning there are many more pessimists than optimists on the local economy.
The business sentiment index for manufacturing plunged five points to 68 due to the sluggish electronics and machinery equipment sectors.
The index for non-manufacturing also edged down as a decline in the real estate, retail and wholesale sectors offset a rise in the lodging industries.
