Sales of imported vehicles in South Korea continued to decline in February, by 6.3% year-on-year to 15,671 units after a 3.5% drop to 16,234 units in January, according to data compiled by the Korea Automobile Importers and Distributors Association.

The decline contrasted sharply with a 7.2% rise in sales of domestic brands, which the association put down to low inventories among importers. Independent analysts believe the decline is part of the fall-out of Volkswagen group's emissions cover-up scandal.

European brands sold 12,313 units last month, led by Mercedes-Benz with 3,787 sales; 2,916 units; Volkswagen 2,196 units; Audi 984 units.