Overview

• The KOSPI index closed at 2,640.57, marking a 1.23% gain and extending its winning streak to three consecutive days.
• Semiconductor and defense stocks were key drivers, with SK hynix rising 4.28% and Korea Aerospace Industries surging 5.23%, bolstered by Nvidia's AI chip deal with Saudi Arabia.
• Foreign and institutional investors purchased a net total of over 1 trillion won, offsetting significant retail investor selling.
• The Korean won initially weakened but later strengthened to 1,396.5 per dollar after reports of U.S.-South Korea FX policy discussions.
• South Korean bond yields fell, with three-year Treasury yields dropping 1.9 basis points to 2.351%, reflecting increased demand for bonds.