South Korean manufacturers are likely to increase their facility investment in 2015 with makers of appliances, machineries and autos taking the lead, a business poll showed Tuesday.

According to the survey of 500 manufacturers by the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the manufacturers' facility investment is predicted to rise an average 3.4 percent this year from a year ago.

Of the respondents, 31.4 percent said they will increase their capital expenditures this year to expand existing facilities and maintain and repair annuated facilities, while 28.8 percent said that they will cut their investments due to uncertain outlook on their business conditions and weakened demand.

By sector, home appliance, machinery and auto makers are expected to invest more than others, but shipbuilders and industrial plant builders are forecast to cut investment by 2.7 percent this year compared with a year ago.

"Home appliance makers are expected to increase their investment thanks to the growing smart and eco-friendly appliances market, and machinery manufacturers are forecast to spend more money on their facilities on an economic recovery in the United States," the KCCI said.

"This year, there will be a drop in investment in the shipbuilding, plant, and material and equipment sectors due to intensifying competition, decreasing new orders and contracting the offshore plant market stemming from a tumble in oil prices," it added.

Most respondents cited uncertain business prospects as the main reason for hesitating to expand their capital expenditures. (Yonhap)