South Korean shares jumped to their highest level in almost two months, driven mainly by strong performance from big chip companies.
Market Overview
The main index, the KOSPI, rose 1.58% to 4,195.05 points, its best level since early November.
Key Movers
- Samsung Electronics gained 1.88% and hit an all‑time high.
- SK Hynix surged 5.51%, reaching its highest point since mid‑November.
- Battery maker LG Energy Solution slipped 1.83%.
- Auto makers Hyundai Motor and Kia Corp rose 1.57% and 0.33% respectively.
- Steel producer POSCO Holdings added 1.62%.
- Drug maker Samsung BioLogics edged up 0.24%.
Foreign Investor Activity
Foreign investors were net buyers, purchasing shares worth about 76.3 billion won.
Currency and Bond Market
The Korean won strengthened to 1,434.6 per U.S. dollar, a modest gain against the previous close. In the bond market, the three‑year treasury yield fell to 2.935% and the 10‑year yield slipped to 3.345%.
Outlook
Analysts expect December export data, likely driven by semiconductor sales, to support further market gains into the new year.
Remember, this is perspective, not prediction. Do your own research before making any investment decisions.