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South Korea’s benchmark KOSPI index surged to a new all-time high on Tuesday, driven by strong gains in technology shares and robust foreign investor inflows. The index jumped as much as 2.1%, reaching a record 3,893.06 points before trimming gains to trade 0.7% higher at 03:49 GMT. With nearly a 12% rise in October alone, the KOSPI continues to showcase investor optimism and global interest in Korea’s tech-heavy market.
Leading the rally were chip-making giants Samsung Electronics (KS:005930) and SK Hynix (KS:000660), both benefiting from the ongoing global AI-driven memory chip boom. Samsung shares climbed as much as 2% to hit an all-time peak, while SK Hynix soared up to 3.4%, marking its highest level in over 25 years. Although both stocks later pared some of their early gains, they remain standout performers in the Asian market, reflecting the growing global demand for advanced semiconductors.
Investor sentiment was further supported by hopes of a potential trade deal between South Korea and the United States, which could strengthen bilateral economic ties. Additionally, a weaker Korean won boosted the export competitiveness of Korean companies, adding momentum to the rally.
Analysts attribute the sharp rise in the KOSPI to a combination of foreign capital inflows, AI-related tech optimism, and a favorable export environment. As global investors increase their exposure to the Korean market, expectations remain high for continued growth in the technology and semiconductor sectors, positioning South Korea as a major beneficiary of the worldwide artificial intelligence and chip manufacturing boom.
