FX.co ★ South Korea Shares Rally Amid Election Optimism

On Wednesday, the benchmark KOSPI index increased by 2.3%, reaching approximately 2,760 points. This rise continued from a 0.5% increase in the previous session, driven by improved investor sentiment following the resolution of political uncertainty after South Korea's presidential election. Concerns have emerged among South Korean exporters regarding the Trump administration's trade policies and potential reciprocal tariffs. In response, President Lee has committed to negotiating advantageous trade agreements with the United States and strengthening economic collaboration with key countries such as China, Japan, and North Korea. The markets are keenly observing indicators of economic recovery after six months of martial law that adversely affected growth. Among the major stocks, chipmakers and financial institutions led the gains, with SK Hynix rising 6%, Samsung Electronics increasing by 1.1%, Shinhan Financial Group up by 3.2%, and KB Financial Group advancing by 2.8%. In contrast, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries saw a decline of 3.7%, and Samsung Biologics fell by 0.3%.