The benchmark KOSPI rose 1.58% on Wednesday to close at a new record high of 8,864, reversing earlier losses as improving global risk sentiment buoyed Asian equities ahead of the Federal Reserve’s policy decision. The advance was underpinned by higher U.S. stock futures and a broadly firmer tone across regional markets, which helped restore risk appetite following recent volatility.
Semiconductor shares led the gains, with Samsung Electronics up 0.87% and SK Hynix surging 5.88%, providing strong support to the index heavyweights. Other notable risers included SK Square (6.33%), LG Energy Solution (1.34%), HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (1.29%), and Hanwha Aerospace (3.63%).
Investors remained focused on the upcoming FOMC decision, with markets widely expecting rates to be left unchanged while closely watching for guidance on the future policy trajectory under Fed Chair Kevin Warsh.
