The benchmark KOSPI slipped 0.9% to around 6,330 on Wednesday, retreating from its record high as stalled US–Iran peace talks and elevated oil prices weighed on sentiment. Investor caution remained even after Donald Trump extended the ceasefire, with Iran refusing to resume negotiations and thereby keeping geopolitical risks and energy costs elevated for South Korea’s import‑dependent economy.
Domestic inflation concerns added to the pressure. Producer prices rose 1.6% in March, the fastest increase in nearly four years, driven by a 31.9% surge in petroleum products and a 6.7% rise in chemical prices. At the same time, earnings worries intensified, with Hyundai Motor and Kia Corporation expected to report operating profit declines of more than 20%, as US tariffs and higher FX-linked warranty costs offset solid sales.
Losses were led by Samsung Electronics (-0.9%), SK Hynix (-1.5%), Hyundai Motor (-2.0%), SK Square (-2.2%), Doosan Enerbility (-2.1%), Kia Corporation (-1.0%), and KB Financial Group (-2.1%).
