Are Seoul Stocks Surging Over 2% Towards a New Record High?
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Synopsis
South Korean markets continue their impressive ascent as tech and defense stocks drive the KOSPI toward record highs. Key industry players show remarkable growth, with AI optimism fueling this surge. Discover the dynamics behind this market momentum and what it means for investors.
Key Takeaways
- The KOSPI rose by 2.06 percent to 4,157.85.
- Major tech and defense stocks led the surge.
- Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix saw significant gains.
- AWS and Tesla's performance had a positive influence on South Korean markets.
- Industry Minister emphasizes the importance of AI for medium-sized enterprises.
Seoul, Nov 3 (NationPress) South Korean stocks experienced a notable rise on Monday morning, moving towards a new all-time peak, driven by significant advancements in large-cap technology and defense sectors.
The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) jumped by 84.42 points, or 2.06 percent, reaching 4,157.85 by 11:20 a.m. The KOSPI had already shown strength last week, breaking the 4,100 threshold for the first time on Friday, according to reports from Yonhap news agency.
This recent surge aligns with the upward trend seen in major U.S. indexes, which concluded higher on Friday, fueled by substantial gains in Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Tesla. The Dow Jones Industrial Average saw a 0.09 percent increase, the tech-focused Nasdaq Composite rose by 0.61 percent, and the S&P 500 added 0.26 percent.
AWS stock soared by 9.58 percent following a positive earnings outlook, while Tesla shares surged 3.74 percent after announcing the launch of its self-driving robotaxi in China.
In Seoul, the KOSPI was buoyed by major players in the technology, defense, and shipbuilding sectors.
Tech giant Samsung Electronics rose 2.05 percent, while its competitor SK Hynix jumped 7.07 percent, continuing a recent upswing driven by increasing optimism surrounding the artificial intelligence (AI) sector.
Internet portal company Naver increased by 4.67 percent, benefiting from the AI momentum.
Shares in the defense and shipbuilding industries also thrived, with several key earnings reports anticipated later on Monday.
Leading defense firm Hanwha Aerospace surged 5.31 percent after announcing a more than double increase in its third-quarter net income compared to last year, due to strong growth in both domestic and international sales.
Major shipbuilder HD Hyundai Heavy advanced 4.33 percent, while competitors Hanwha Ocean and HD Korea Shipbuilding gained 2.69 percent and 3.59 percent, respectively.
Energy solutions firm HD Hyundai Electric experienced a remarkable rise of 9.77 percent.
As of 11:20 a.m., the local currency was trading at 1,430.3 won against the U.S. dollar, reflecting a decrease of 5.9 won from the previous trading session.
In related news, Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan urged medium-sized enterprises to embrace artificial intelligence technology actively, emphasizing that it is essential for their survival and growth.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the growing momentum in South Korea's stock market, particularly in technology and defense sectors. This surge not only reflects global trends but also positions South Korea as a significant player in the evolving economic landscape. Our nation's resilience and adaptability in adopting innovative technologies like AI are essential for sustained growth.
NationPress
26/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is driving the increase in the KOSPI?
The KOSPI is surging due to significant gains in large-cap technology and defense stocks, along with positive trends in major U.S. indexes.
How have international markets influenced South Korea's stock performance?
Strong performances from U.S. companies like Amazon and Tesla have positively impacted investor sentiment in South Korea, contributing to the KOSPI's rise.
What role does artificial intelligence play in this market surge?
Growing optimism around the AI sector has been a major catalyst for the recent rally, particularly benefiting tech companies like Samsung and SK Hynix.
