The benchmark KOSPI rose more than 1% to around 5,460 on Monday, extending gains from the previous session as heavyweight semiconductor strength and easing energy concerns supported sentiment. Technology shares led the rally, with Samsung Electronics (3.2%) and SK hynix (2.2%) posting solid gains ahead of key earnings guidance, amid expectations of record quarterly profits driven by the ongoing AI-led memory upcycle. Among the top performers were LG Energy Solution (4.0%), SK Square (2.2%), Kia Corporation (0.9%), and Shinhan Financial Group (1.2%). Hopes for progress toward reopening the Strait of Hormuz further lifted sentiment, helping ease fears of prolonged supply disruptions and extreme oil price spikes. However, gains remained tempered by persistent geopolitical risks after Donald Trump renewed threats of military action against Iran, keeping markets sensitive to headlines and contributing to elevated volatility.
