The benchmark KOSPI rose nearly 2% to around 7,980 on Thursday, extending its rally to a new all-time high amid a broader global advance in technology shares. Semiconductor stocks led the gains after major US tech names hit fresh records overnight on sustained enthusiasm for AI-related companies.
Samsung Electronics jumped more than 5% after announcing plans to begin mass production of next-generation CXL memory modules for AI servers later this year, while SK hynix added 0.6%. Sentiment also improved on optimism surrounding the Trump–Xi summit, with investors hoping the talks will help avert further escalation in US–China trade tensions, particularly regarding tariffs and export controls.
Domestic liquidity conditions remained supportive, as Bank of Korea data showed money supply continued to expand in March, driven by increased short-term funds flowing into equity markets. Among other notable movers, LG Energy Solution gained 2.1% and Hyundai Mobis advanced 1.7%.
