The benchmark KOSPI hit a fresh record high of around 4,642 on Monday, climbing 1.22% and extending its rally for a second session, supported by gains in semiconductor, auto, and defense stocks. Semiconductor stocks advanced with Samsung Electronics (+0.90%) and SK Hynix (+1.28%), auto shares rose on Hyundai Motor (+2.05%), while defense stocks advanced as Hanwha Aerospace (+0.16%), Hyundai Rotem (+1.14%), and LIG Nex1 (+4.06%) led the sector. Market activity remained robust, with stock settlements through the Korea Securities Depository totaling KRW 601.4 trillion in 2025, up 24.4% from the previous year, reflecting strong trading across both local exchange stocks and institutional transactions. Further supporting sentiment, investors are anticipating the Bank of Korea to keep its policy rate unchanged at 2.5% this week, providing continuity for financial markets and helping to stabilize the currency and property sectors amid ongoing domestic pressures.
