FX.co ★ South Korean Shares Rise on Semiconductor Surge

The KOSPI index advanced by 1.7% on Thursday, reaching approximately 2,800 points, marking its highest level in over ten months. This upward movement was predominantly fueled by a significant resurgence in semiconductor exports. Chip shipments experienced a year-on-year increase of 50.9%, amounting to $13.4 billion, indicative of strong global demand for memory and advanced components. Investor confidence was further buoyed by positive anticipation for the upcoming APEC 2025 summit in Gyeongju, scheduled for October 31 to November 1, which is expected to enhance trade, draw foreign investment, and showcase South Korea’s technological prowess. Meanwhile, leading corporations such as Samsung Electronics, LG Electronics, and Hyundai Motor Group are ramping up investments in humanoid robotics, targeting global leadership by 2030. On the corporate front, SK Hynix saw its stock rise by 4.6%, and Samsung Electronics by 1.3%, with gains also observed in companies like Hanwha Aerospace (4.3%) and Hyundai Motor (1.6%). Conversely, KB Financial Group, Shinhan Financial Group, and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries experienced downturns, with declines of 3.1%, 2.3%, and 1% respectively.