The benchmark KOSPI climbed more than 1% to around 7,740 on Wednesday, rebounding from a sharp selloff in the previous session as investors selectively bought semiconductor and large-cap technology shares. Sentiment was supported by continued optimism over AI-driven demand and solid chip export performance.
Leading gainers included SK Hynix (2.9%), SK Square (1.9%), Hyundai Motor (5.3%), HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (2.6%), and Kia Corporation (1.9%). In contrast, declines were recorded by Samsung Electronics (-2.2%), LG Energy Solution (-3.2%), and Doosan Enerbility (-4.9%).
On the macro front, hotter-than-expected US inflation reinforced expectations that the Federal Reserve may keep interest rates higher for longer. At the same time, lingering uncertainty around US–Iran peace talks and elevated oil prices continued to weigh on risk appetite. Investors also stayed cautious amid policy uncertainty over proposals to redistribute AI-driven excess tax revenues and mounting concerns about a potential large-scale strike at Samsung Electronics following the breakdown of wage negotiations.
