Asian Stocks Climb as AI Optimism Boosts Tech Shares; South Korea Leads Gains

Asian stock markets mostly advanced on Monday as strong investor confidence in artificial intelligence (AI) fueled gains in technology shares, helping markets look beyond ongoing uncertainty surrounding a potential U.S.-Iran peace agreement.

South Korea emerged as the region’s top performer, with the KOSPI index reaching a new record high. The rally was driven by major semiconductor and electronics companies that are expected to benefit from growing global demand for AI-related technologies. Investors remained focused on opportunities in the AI sector, which continues to support strong momentum across global equity markets.

Technology giants Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix posted significant gains, while LG Electronics recorded an even stronger surge. Market sentiment improved after reports indicated that Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang is scheduled to meet leading South Korean technology executives during his upcoming visit to the country. Nvidia is also expected to participate in events linked to the COMPUTEX technology exhibition in Taipei, further strengthening optimism surrounding future AI partnerships.

Nvidia maintains close business relationships with South Korean chipmakers, particularly SK Hynix and Samsung. Expectations of expanded collaboration and increased demand for advanced memory chips and AI infrastructure have contributed to the strong performance of these companies.

Japanese stocks also moved higher, with the Nikkei 225 gaining ground thanks to strength in technology shares. SoftBank Group was among the biggest winners, climbing sharply to a record high and surpassing Toyota Motor as Japan’s most valuable company. Investors continue to view SoftBank favorably due to its exposure to artificial intelligence and its connections to OpenAI. Other Japanese technology firms, including Murata Manufacturing and Kioxia Holdings, also posted notable gains.

Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index advanced as technology stocks attracted buyers. However, mainland Chinese markets declined after recent manufacturing data suggested slower economic growth in May, raising concerns about the outlook for the world’s second-largest economy.

Australia’s ASX 200 edged lower, Singapore’s Straits Times Index traded largely unchanged, and India’s Nifty 50 futures slipped slightly. Overall, growing enthusiasm for AI investments and technology stocks continued to provide strong support for Asian markets despite geopolitical uncertainties and mixed economic signals.