15.01.202601:56:48UTC+00Korean Stocks Rise on Sector Gains

The benchmark KOSPI index experienced a 0.49% increase, reaching approximately 4,746 on Thursday, marking its fifth consecutive session of gains. This upward momentum was driven by strong performance in the automotive and defense sectors, with Hyundai Motor climbing 1.09% and Kia Corporation rising by 2.24%. Notably, defense stocks also made gains, with Hanwha Aerospace up by 0.71% and Korea Aerospace increasing by 1.36%. Additionally, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries saw a 3.09% rise, while Korea Zinc surged by 5.97%. Investor sentiment was further bolstered by the Bank of Korea’s decision to maintain its benchmark interest rate at 2.5% for a fifth consecutive meeting, signaling a supportive monetary environment despite challenges such as a weaker won and inflationary pressures. Nevertheless, the market's gains were somewhat curbed by growing caution after the US Supreme Court delayed its decision on the validity of President Trump’s "reciprocal" tariffs, offering judgments on other matters but remaining silent on the country-specific tariffs issue.