The benchmark KOSPI jumped more than 2% to around 5,680 on Tuesday, rising for a second consecutive session as softer oil prices boosted global risk appetite and supported energy-sensitive markets. Crude prices retreated after measures to stabilize tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz eased fears of supply disruptions, which had recently intensified inflation pressures and weighed on the Korean won.
The advance mirrored strong gains on Wall Street, where major US indexes moved higher on cooling energy prices and improving sentiment regarding the Middle East conflict. This backdrop reinforced a broader risk-on tone across global equity markets.
Heavyweight technology names led the gains, with Samsung Electronics and SK hynix climbing 3.9% and 2.3%, respectively, amid continued optimism over artificial intelligence–related demand. Other major stocks also advanced, including Hyundai Motor (5.5%), LG Energy Solution (1.6%), SK Square (6.1%), and Kia Corporation (3.8%).
