The South Korean won strengthened to around 1,440 per dollar, reaching its highest level in three weeks, supported by broad US dollar weakness and sustained foreign equity inflows. The dollar softened across major and Asian peers as intervention risks in Japan weighed on the greenback, lifting regional currencies, including the won. Additionally, the won drew support from robust foreign demand for South Korean equities, with overseas ownership nearing a six-year high, led by strong gains in technology, shipbuilding, defense and nuclear power stocks. The KOSPI’s rally above the 5,000 mark encouraged FX inflows and reduced hedging demand, while easing domestic dollar hoarding, including a decline in corporate dollar deposits, further limited upside pressure on the dollar-won pair. Looking ahead, attention remains on broad dollar sentiment and global FX developments tied to Japan and US policy signals, alongside upcoming Federal Reserve guidance.
