The benchmark KOSPI surged more than 5% to around 5,310 on Wednesday, snapping a four-day losing streak as easing geopolitical tensions lifted global risk appetite. Investor sentiment improved after US President Donald Trump indicated that military operations in Iran could conclude within weeks, raising expectations of a de-escalation in the Middle East and easing concerns over oil prices and inflation.
The rally was further underpinned by strong external fundamentals. South Korea’s exports jumped 48.3% year-on-year in March to a record $86.1 billion, fueled by robust semiconductor shipments. This data bolstered confidence in the earnings outlook for the country’s export-oriented, chip-driven equity market.
Gains in Seoul also mirrored a broad global rebound, with Wall Street logging its strongest session in months and adding momentum to regional equities. Among the standout performers were Samsung Electronics (up 7.5%), SK hynix (7.6%), Hyundai Motor (6.0%), SK Square (4.6%), and Hanwha Aerospace (3.9%).
