The benchmark KOSPI advanced 1.95% to close at 6,971 on Thursday, snapping a three-session losing streak as semiconductor-related stocks led the rebound. Stronger-than-expected earnings and upbeat revenue guidance from Micron Technology underscored sustained demand for AI memory chips, while the company’s expanded long-term supply commitments reinforced the sector’s positive outlook.
Among heavyweight names, Samsung Electronics and SK hynix gained 2.61% and 3.10%, respectively. Other notable risers included SK Square (1.32%), Hanwha Aerospace (2.78%), LG Energy Solution (0.98%), and Samsung Electro-Mechanics (2.95%).
On the macro front, South Korea’s exports in September surged 83.5% year-on-year to a record $120.9 billion, driven by semiconductor shipments, which soared 263% to an all-time high of $60.3 billion, further highlighting strong global chip demand.
Gains were partly tempered by external headwinds, as elevated US Treasury yields persisted, with the 10-year yield holding above 5.3%. Foreign investors also remained net sellers of Korean equities, limiting the index’s upside.
