The benchmark KOSPI rose 0.49% to around 4,746 on Thursday, extending gains for the fifth consecutive session as auto and defense stocks supported the index. Hyundai Motor (+1.09%) and Kia Corporation (+2.24%) led the sector, while defense names advanced, including Hanwha Aerospace (+0.71%) and Korea Aerospace (+1.36%). Other notable gainers were HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (+3.09%), and Korea Zinc (+5.97%). Further supporting sentiment, the Bank of Korea’s decision to hold its benchmark rate at 2.5% for a fifth meeting reassured investors that monetary conditions remain supportive, despite a weaker won and inflation risks. However, gains were tempered as caution rose after the US Supreme Court postponed a ruling on the legality of Trump’s country-specific “reciprocal” tariffs. The court ruled on other cases but gave no verdict on the legality of the administration’s country-specific tariffs.
