South Korean companies' business outlook for August has fallen compared to the month before.<br />According to the Bank of Korea, the business survey index for all industries came to 69 for August, down four points on-month.<br />That's the lowest level since February.<br />The reading is far below 100, meaning there are many more pessimists than optimists on the local economy.<br />The business sentiment index for manufacturing plunged five points to 68 due to the sluggish electronics and machinery equipment sectors.<br />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.<br />
