The benchmark KOSPI slipped to around 6,910 on Wednesday, extending its decline from the previous session as doubts over the durability of the semiconductor earnings boom and persistently high global bond yields weighed on sentiment. Investors remained cautious ahead of Samsung Electronics’ preliminary third-quarter earnings release on Thursday, with markets focused on whether robust memory-chip demand and firm pricing can be sustained into 2027 and 2028. At the same time, US Treasury yields, though off their multidecade peaks, stayed elevated enough to keep pressure on equity valuations. Notable losses were recorded in SK hynix (-0.9%), Hyundai Motor (-1.8%), Hanwha Aerospace (-2.5%), HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (-3.3%), and Kia Corporation (-1.3%).
Meanwhile, oil prices declined as Middle Eastern exports recovered and the G7 prepared to release strategic reserves. South Korea’s improved coverage of November crude oil supplies further eased concerns over potential energy supply disruptions.
