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South Korean Stocks Climb on U.S.-Japan Trade Optimism and Steady Interest Rates

The KOSPI rose nearly 1%, driven by semiconductor gains and a strengthening won, as the Bank of Korea held rates steady at 2.75%.

This photo shows a dealing room at Hana Bank in central Seoul on April 18, 2025. (Yonhap)
This photo shows a dealing room at Hana Bank in central Seoul on April 17, 2025. (Yonhap)
This photo shows a dealing room at Hana Bank in central Seoul on April 17, 2025. (Yonhap)
This photo shows a dealing room at Hana Bank in central Seoul on April 18, 2025. (Yonhap)

Overview

  • The KOSPI index closed 0.94% higher on April 17, 2025, rebounding from the previous day's losses.
  • Investor sentiment was buoyed by U.S.-Japan trade talks, with President Trump reporting 'big progress' in avoiding higher tariffs for Japan.
  • Semiconductor stocks led the gains, with Samsung Electronics rising 0.73% and SK hynix climbing 0.57%.
  • The Korean won strengthened to a four-month high against the U.S. dollar, trading at 1,418.9 won per dollar.
  • The Bank of Korea maintained its benchmark interest rate at 2.75%, citing concerns over household debt and foreign exchange volatility.