FX.co ★ South Korean Shares Hit Record Near 5,200

The benchmark KOSPI index advanced by 0.5% to approximately 5,197 points on Thursday, extending its recent upward trajectory. This positive momentum was driven by robust earnings reports from key semiconductor firms, bolstering market sentiment. Samsung Electronics disclosed a fourth-quarter operating profit of 20.07 trillion won, more than three times the figures from the previous year. Similarly, SK hynix achieved record fourth-quarter profits, fueled by demand for AI-related memory products. The index was also buoyed by leadership within the semiconductor, automotive, and battery sectors, maintaining strong inflows in both foreign exchange and equities. The technical momentum sustained above the 5,200 intraday mark further contributed to investor interest. Among the standout performers were Hyundai Motor, which rose by 2.9%, Kia Corporation at 2.3%, SK Square at 4.6%, and Doosan Enerbility, which increased by 2.6%. In contrast, trade negotiations between the United States and South Korea are currently stalled. Washington has stated it will not seek an agreement until the South Korean parliament provides ratification, leaving markets wary due to ongoing trade uncertainties.