The benchmark KOSPI slumped 3.25% to around 3,875 on Friday, reversing gains from the previous session as selling pressure re-intensified across the market. Renewed weakness in major tech names dragged the index lower, as concerns over stretched AI valuations resurfaced. The drop followed a similar shift in the US, where an initial Nvidia-driven rebound faded and prompted a wider retreat from risk assets. Market unease grew given the heavy exposure to semiconductors, power equipment, and nuclear-related technologies, sectors that have driven gains from the AI boom but are particularly vulnerable to sudden shifts in sentiment. All domestic sectors declined, led by steep losses in Samsung Electronics (-4.27%), SK Hynix (-7.79%), Hanwha Aerospace (-5.68%), Doosan Enerbility (-5.34%), and LG Energy Solution (-2.15%).
