Seoul Shares Surge Over 4% on Tech Rally and Falling Oil Prices

On November 10, 2026, South Korean stocks experienced a significant rebound, surging over 4% to end a three-day decline. The Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) closed at 5,239.13, marking an increase of 220.28 points, or 4.39%. This rally was primarily fueled by strong gains in technology shares as oil prices fell sharply amid hopes for a resolution to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The KOSPI opened 4.55% higher, prompting the Korea Exchange to activate a buy-side sidecar, suspending program trading for five minutes. Trading volume was relatively light, with 241 million shares traded, valued at approximately 16.2 trillion won (about $12.1 billion). Notably, foreign investors returned as net buyers, purchasing a net 365.9 billion won worth of shares.

Key players in the technology sector saw substantial gains. Market leader Samsung Electronics jumped 4.74% to 198,000 won, while SK Hynix soared 6.69% to 1.2 million won. Other notable performers included Samsung Electro-Mechanics and SK Square, both of which also saw significant increases.

Lower oil prices benefited the airline sector, with Korean Air and Asiana Airlines experiencing impressive gains of over 11%. The overall market sentiment was buoyed by the performance of U.S. technology stocks, which also closed higher, further supporting the positive trend in South Korea's stock market.

As of the afternoon trading session, the Korean won was quoted at 1,337.5 won against the U.S. dollar, reflecting a slight appreciation. Bond prices also rose, indicating a favorable market environment for investors.