02.01.202603:26:49UTC+00South Korean Shares Start Year Strong

On Friday, the KOSPI index climbed over 1% to approximately 4,260, marking the beginning of the year's first trading session near record highs. This increase was driven by a rally in major semiconductor stocks, fueled by optimism about ongoing AI-driven demand. Notably, Samsung Electronics saw a 3.6% rise, while SK hynix increased by 2.3%, both buoyed by expectations that the global chip cycle will continue to propel earnings growth throughout the year. Other notable gainers included SK Square, which rose by 3.0%, Hanwha Aerospace at 1.6%, Celltrion at 11.3%, and HD Hyundai Electric with a gain of 5.2%. Investor sentiment was additionally bolstered by positive macroeconomic indicators—most notably, South Korea's record-high exports of $709.7 billion in 2025. Semiconductor shipments reached unprecedented levels, and the nation recorded its largest trade surplus since 2017, reinforcing confidence in South Korea's export-driven recovery, particularly within the technology and industrial sectors. The trading session commenced an hour later than usual following the New Year holiday.