The benchmark KOSPI fell 1.40% to around 4,160 on Tuesday, retreating from recent highs as investors took profits following its surge to record levels. Broad-based weakness weighed on the index, with technology and auto shares leading the declines. Major losers included SK Hynix (-3.15%), Samsung Electronics (-1.80%), Hyundai Motor (-3.60%), and Kia Corporation (-2.21%). Separately, investors digested data showing that consumer prices rose 2.4 percent in October from a year earlier, the fastest increase in 15 months and above both the 2.1 percent gain in September and market expectations of around 2.2 percent. The stronger-than-expected reading heightened caution in the market, amplifying concerns that the Bank of Korea may delay anticipated interest rate cuts amid persistent inflationary pressures.
