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Articles by Song Yoonseo
KOSPI Plummets 3.52% Amid AI Profitability Concerns and Supply Issues
The South Korean stock market experienced another sharp decline, falling over 3% due to concerns about the profitability of artificial intelligence (AI) investments, profit-taking in semiconductor stocks, and a supply gap following the end of share buybacks. On October 22, the KOSPI closed at 5,533.77, down 3.52% from the previous trading day. Although it attempted to rebound early in the session, it failed to maintain upward momentum and remained below the 5,600 mark.
Investors Turn to Money Market Funds and ETFs Amid Stock Market Volatility
Investors eager to buy stocks are feeling uneasy about entering the market, yet leaving cash idle is also disappointing. As stock market volatility increases, investors are turning to 'parking-type' financial products where they can temporarily place their funds while waiting for the next opportunity. According to Koscom ETF Check on October 22, KODEX Money Market Active saw an inflow of 752.4 billion won over the past week.
Vinatek Shares Surge 13% Following Major Supercapacitor Supply Contract
Vinatek's shares have surged by over 13% following the announcement of a large supply contract for supercapacitors intended for data centers. The contract's value exceeds 1.4 times the company's revenue from last year, boosting investor sentiment. According to the Korea Exchange, as of 2:09 PM, Vinatek's stock was trading at 107,600 won, up 12,900 won (13.62%) from the previous trading day. At one point during the session, the stock reached as high as 121,500 won.
Samsung Electro-Mechanics Shares Rise on Strategic Partnership with NVIDIA
Samsung Electro-Mechanics is experiencing a rise in stock prices following news of its expansion in AI semiconductor packaging lines in partnership with NVIDIA. As of 10:42 a.m. on October 22, the company’s shares were trading at 1,178,000 won, up 10,000 won (0.86%) from the previous trading day. At one point, the stock reached 1,234,000 won before retracting some gains.
Shinhan Investment Corp Lowers Hana Tour's Target Price Amid Rising Costs
Shinhan Investment Corp has lowered its target price for Hana Tour to 45,000 won, citing prolonged burdens from fuel costs and the impact of ongoing conflicts.
Samsung and SK Hynix Stock Prices Fluctuate Amid Diverging Price Targets
Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix stocks have been experiencing significant fluctuations, often rising sharply after declines of 3% to 5%. The KOSPI index is also reacting to the movements of these two companies, leaving individual investors struggling to determine their investment direction. Amid this volatility, analysts are presenting starkly contrasting price targets for both stocks, further confusing investors.
Aplus Asset Surges Nearly 15% Following Shareholder Return Plan Announcement
Aplus Asset has seen its stock price surge nearly 15% during trading on October 21 after announcing a plan to enhance corporate value through expanded shareholder returns. According to the Korea Exchange, as of 1:16 PM, Aplus Asset's shares were trading at 12,750 won, up 1,660 won (14.97%) from the previous trading day. The stock opened at 12,000 won and briefly rose to 12,860 won during the session. Although the gains slightly decreased, the stock remains strong.
LIG Defense and Aerospace Shares Plummet 13% Amid Procurement Sanctions
LIG Defense and Aerospace is experiencing a significant drop in its stock price following news of sanctions from the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) regarding its bidding qualifications. As of 1:05 PM on October 21, LIG Defense and Aerospace shares were trading at 475,000 won, down 73,000 won (13.32%) from the previous trading day. The stock opened at 504,000 won and briefly fell to 460,000 won during the session.
KB Securities Lowers Kakao's Target Price Amid Weak Q3 Outlook
KB Securities has reduced its target price for Kakao by 32% to 39,000 won, reflecting a slowdown in revenue growth from its TalkBiz segment and a discount on the value of its subsidiaries ahead of a planned spin-off. The investment rating remains at 'buy.' Research analyst Lee Ji-eun stated in a report that Kakao is expected to report third-quarter revenues of 2.02 trillion won and operating profit of 236.3 billion won, falling short of market consensus.
Retail Investors Pull Back as Stock Trading Volume Drops 57% in Three Months
Retail investors, often referred to as 'ants' in South Korea, have been a crucial support for the stock market. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they drove the market as 'Donghak Ants' and led a rally over the past year. They also acted as a buffer against selling pressure from foreign investors. However, their investment enthusiasm is rapidly waning, largely due to a significant decline in the domestic stock market since June.
Retail Investors Cut Back on Stock Trading Amid Market Decline
Retail investors are tightening their wallets in the stock market. Just three months ago, the average monthly trading amount per individual was 139.68 million won, but it plummeted to 60.1 million won in September, a 57.0% decrease. The number of orders and trading customers at brokerage firms has also declined. This trend follows a significant drop in the KOSPI index, which has seen the steepest decline among major global stock markets since June.
Investors Avoid Stock Apps Amid Market Decline
Worker A has refrained from opening his mobile trading system (MTS) recently, even amid a sharp decline in semiconductor stocks. He fears facing the blue numbers in his account and believes it is better for his mental health to pretend his account does not exist until stock prices recover. Individual investors are reducing the frequency with which they check their stock accounts. Since this summer, the frequency of MTS access among individual clients has noticeably decreased.
Hyundai Rotem Shares Plunge Over 11% Amid Earnings Concerns
Hyundai Rotem's stock has dropped more than 11% due to concerns over weak third-quarter earnings and delays in defense export contracts. The company's operating profit fell short of market expectations, raising worries about its growth potential. Securities firms have also lowered their target prices for the stock. As of 9:46 a.m. on the Korea Exchange, Hyundai Rotem shares were trading at 89,000 won, down 11.62% from the previous trading day. The stock opened at 97,900 won but quickly lost ground.
Korea Securities Depository Contributes Average of $1.3 Million Annually to Social Initiatives
The Korea Securities Depository (KSD) has reported an average annual contribution of 1.8 billion won (approximately $1.3 million) to social initiatives over the past four years. According to the KSD's recent disclosure on its social contribution activities, the average annual contribution for social and innovative enterprise support was 1.783 billion won. The contributions by year include 2.304 billion won in 2023, 1.572 billion won in 2024, and 1.707 billion won in 2025.
Hanwha Systems Shares Rise 1% Amid Positive Earnings Outlook
Hanwha Systems is showing strength in the market, buoyed by positive earnings forecasts and increased target prices from analysts. As of 2:16 PM on October 19, Hanwha Systems shares were trading at 79,800 won, up 800 won (1.01%) from the previous trading day, according to the Korea Exchange. The stock opened at 77,800 won and briefly surged to 82,600 won during the session before pulling back slightly while maintaining an upward trend.
Lablup Aims for KOSDAQ Listing to Expand Global Reach with AI Infrastructure Platform
AI infrastructure management and operations software company Lablup is set to target the global market with its upcoming KOSDAQ listing. The company plans to expand its business by leveraging an integrated platform that encompasses GPU resource management, AI model training, inference, serving, and token management, all while maintaining a growth strategy based on recurring revenue.
KT&G Shares Rise Amid Expectations for Shareholder Return Policy
As overall market pressures increase, KT&G is showing early gains driven by expectations for shareholder returns and its appeal as a defensive stock. According to the Korea Exchange, as of 9:54 a.m. on October 19, KT&G shares were trading at 191,700 won, up 1,200 won (0.63%) from the previous trading day. The stock reached as high as 193,800 won in early trading. Although it later gave back some gains, it continued to trend upward.
Sangsangin Securities Lowers JYP Entertainment Target Price Amid Growth Concerns
Sangsangin Securities has lowered its target price for JYP Entertainment to 52,000 won, citing that the growth potential of its lower-tier intellectual property (IP) has yet to materialize.
Dalba Global Shares Rise Over 8% Amid Long-Term Growth Expectations
Dalba Global's shares have surged over 8% during trading. The company has outlined its long-term growth strategy and performance targets, drawing attention from analysts to its potential for growth through the expansion of its global distribution network. As of 1:21 PM on October 16, Dalba Global's stock was trading at 171,500 won, up 12,800 won (8.07%) from the previous trading day. The stock opened at 160,200 won and reached a high of 173,100 won during the session.
Semiconductor Stocks Plunge, ETFs Follow Suit with Poor Returns
On October 15, shares of Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix plummeted, causing domestic semiconductor exchange-traded funds (ETFs) to also experience significant declines. Concerns over the profitability of artificial intelligence (AI) investments and intensified competition in the memory market have dampened investor sentiment across the semiconductor sector.
APAR Shares Surge Nearly 9% on Overseas Sales Growth Expectations
APAR is experiencing a strong surge of nearly 9% amid expectations of improved performance. Despite concerns over export profitability due to the strengthening won, the company’s cosmetics sales in the U.S. and Europe are showing robust growth, drawing renewed attention to its overseas business potential. According to the Korea Exchange, as of 10:46 a.m. on October 16, APAR shares rose by 26,500 won (8.89%) to trade at 324,500 won.
KB Securities Lowers Lotte Tour Development's Target Price Amid Uncertainties
KB Securities has lowered its target price for Lotte Tour Development to 17,000 won, citing external uncertainties such as changes in Chinese policy that are delaying profitability improvements. However, the firm anticipates a rebound if these uncertainties ease, leading to an increase in visitor numbers.
Shopping Points Transform into Investment Opportunities
Points accumulated from shopping are now being transformed into investments in stocks and funds. A new service that connects points earned from purchases to investment benefits has emerged, allowing securities firms to attract potential customers and enhance their mobile platform competitiveness. According to the financial investment industry on the 15th, Hana Securities recently launched a 'Shopping Accumulation' service that links shopping and investing.
Tax Strategies to Protect Investment Returns with ISA Accounts
Office worker A began investing in stocks this year, enjoying the gradual accumulation of returns through stocks and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). While there are losses, A is minimizing them through cautious strategies. Initially, the biggest concern was which stocks to buy, but as the investment grew, A became interested in ways to reduce tax burdens.
Panic in Stock Market Fuels Fear of Forced Liquidation, Surging to 89.3 Billion Won
The stock market has plummeted to the mid-5,000s, deepening the concerns of individual investors. Those who borrowed to invest in stocks are now facing fears of forced liquidation. The margin loan balance has exceeded 33 trillion won, with daily forced liquidation amounts nearing 90 billion won. There are growing worries about a vicious cycle where falling stock prices lead to forced liquidations, which in turn drive prices down further.
Third Quarter Sees Dramatic Drop in Stock-Related Bond Exercises
In the third quarter of this year, the scale of stock-related bond exercises fell by more than 70% compared to the previous quarter. While the amounts for convertible bonds (CB) and exchangeable bonds (EB) saw significant declines, the exercise amount for warrants (BW) increased. According to the Korea Securities Depository on October 15, the number of stock-related bond exercises through the depository in the third quarter was 432, a 67.8% decrease from the previous quarter's 1,343.
Shinyoung Securities Raises Target Price for Kolmar Korea by 13%
Shinyoung Securities announced on October 15 that it has raised its target price for Kolmar Korea by 13% to 180,000 won, citing a diversification of export regions and an expansion in skincare orders that are easing seasonal fluctuations. The firm maintained its 'buy' rating. Lee Kyo-seok, a researcher at Shinyoung Securities, stated in a report that it is an opportune time to expect a reduction in seasonal impacts.
Short-term Bond Issuance Reaches 349 Trillion Won in Q3, Down 42% from Previous Quarter
The total amount raised through short-term bonds in South Korea for the third quarter of this year was recorded at 349.3 trillion won. This figure represents a 42.4% decrease from the previous quarter, but a 20.4% increase compared to the same period last year. According to the Korea Securities Depository on October 14, the short-term bond issuance for the third quarter was 349.3 trillion won, up from 290.2 trillion won in the same quarter last year.
IBK Securities Lowers Target Price for Hyundai Department Store Amid Slowing Profit Growth
IBK Securities announced on October 14 that it has lowered its target price for Hyundai Department Store to 150,000 won, citing a potential slowdown in profit growth for the department store's business segment. The investment recommendation remains a 'buy.' Nam Seong-hyun, a researcher at IBK Securities, stated in a report that "the high base from last year and the profit margin increase due to strong clothing sales in the fourth quarter of 2025 have contributed to this analysis.
KOSPI Drops 5.46% Amid Semiconductor Stock Plunge, Clings to 6000 Level
The KOSPI index fell sharply, driven by a decline in major semiconductor stocks, briefly dipping below the 6000 mark. A significant sell-off by foreign investors exacerbated the drop, but the index managed to recover some losses toward the end of the trading session. On October 13, the Korea Exchange reported that the KOSPI closed at 6035.35, down 348.89 points (5.46%) from the previous trading day.
Despite Losses, Individual Investors Bet 6.7 Billion Won on Yen ETFs
The value of the yen has fallen to its lowest level against the won in nearly 18 years, yet individual investors are betting on a potential rebound. Over the past month, four related exchange-traded funds (ETFs) recorded negative returns, but individual investors have net purchased 6.751 billion won.
APAR Shares Plunge 16% Amid Concerns Over Q3 Earnings
APAR's stock price has dropped over 16% during trading due to concerns about disappointing third-quarter earnings. Analysts predict that operating profit will fall short of market expectations, leading to a decline in investor sentiment. As of 11:10 a.m. on October 13, APAR shares were trading at 295,000 won, down 16.19% from the previous trading day, according to the Korea Exchange. The stock opened at 325,000 won and fell further, reaching a low of 288,500 won at one point during the session.
Third Quarter Bond and CD Electronic Registration Exceeds 178 Trillion Won
In the third quarter of this year, the scale of electronic registration for bonds and certificates of deposit (CD) exceeded 178 trillion won, marking an 11.1% increase compared to the same period last year. While the issuance of special bonds and financial company bonds rose, general company bonds saw a decline.
KB Securities Lowers Studio Dragon's Target Price Amid Ongoing Industry Weakness
KB Securities announced on October 13 that it has lowered the target price for Studio Dragon to 32,000 won, citing ongoing weakness in the industry. The firm maintained its 'buy' rating.
Korea Securities Depository Launches Campaign to Recover Unclaimed Stocks
The Korea Securities Depository (KSD) is launching a campaign to return unclaimed stocks and dividends to shareholders. From 2009 to last year, the KSD returned a total of 11.121 trillion won in unclaimed stocks and funds through its campaigns.
Third Quarter Securities Settlement Amounts Drop 16.5% from Previous Quarter
In the third quarter of this year, the average daily securities settlement amount decreased by 16.5% compared to the previous quarter, influenced by declines in both stock and bond settlement amounts. However, it showed a 29.4% increase compared to the same period last year.
KOSPI Falls 2.74% While KOSDAQ Rises 9.27%, Highlighting Market Disparities
U.S. stock markets reached new all-time highs, but South Korea's domestic markets declined for the second consecutive day. This downturn is attributed to cautious sentiment ahead of Samsung Electronics' preliminary earnings announcement and concerns over upcoming market closures. However, when looking at the past month, the situation appears different.
KOSPI Falls Below 6,800 Amid Foreign and Institutional Selling
The KOSPI index dropped nearly 2% as foreign and institutional investors sold off shares. Despite major U.S. indices reaching record highs overnight due to expectations for third-quarter earnings and easing interest rate concerns, the domestic market faced pressure from rising international oil prices and U.S. Treasury yields, coupled with cautious sentiment ahead of Samsung Electronics' preliminary earnings announcement.
KOSPI Falls Below 6,800 Despite U.S. Market Gains Amid Foreign and Institutional Selling
The KOSPI index has dropped over 1% due to simultaneous net selling by foreign and institutional investors. Despite major U.S. indices reaching all-time highs on the back of strong third-quarter earnings expectations and easing interest rate concerns, the domestic market is showing weakness as investors adopt a wait-and-see approach ahead of Samsung Electronics' preliminary earnings announcement and concerns about upcoming holidays.
International Pharmaceutical Stocks Surge Amid Concerns Over Russian Plague
Concerns over the spread of infectious diseases have led to a surge in pharmaceutical and diagnostic stocks on the domestic market following the news of a staff member's death at a Russian plague research institute. As of 10:46 a.m. on October 7, International Pharmaceutical saw its stock rise by 1,020 won (29.91%) to reach the upper limit of 4,430 won. Humasis increased by 745 won (28.60%) to 3,350 won, while Green Cross MS rose by 705 won (21.30%) to 4,015 won.
KOSPI Opens Lower Despite Record Highs on U.S. Markets
The KOSPI opened more than 1% lower as foreign and institutional investors sold off shares. Despite major U.S. indices reaching record highs overnight, buoyed by strong third-quarter earnings expectations and easing interest rate concerns, the domestic market showed weakness ahead of Samsung Electronics' preliminary earnings announcement and amid caution over an upcoming holiday. As of 9:03 a.m. on October 7, the KOSPI was down 39.28 points (0.57%) at 6,902.11.
Market Preview: U.S. Stocks Reach All-Time Highs; Will KOSPI Bounce Back?
U.S. stocks reached all-time highs on October 6, buoyed by strong expectations for third-quarter earnings and a stabilization in Treasury yields, raising interest in whether the domestic market will also rebound. The positive sentiment from the strength of U.S. artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure stocks and easing interest rate concerns is expected to influence investor sentiment.
Hana Securities Raises Cosmax Target Price Amid Global K-Beauty Momentum
Hana Securities has projected strong third-quarter results for Cosmax, citing an expansion of K-Beauty's global momentum. The firm raised its target price to 380,000 won while maintaining a 'buy' rating.
Court Halts Delisting of Troubled Companies Amid Industry Pushback
On October 6, the Seoul Southern District Court's 51st Civil Division granted an injunction against the delisting decisions of Joyon Tech, a KOSPI-listed company, and KM Pharmaceutical, a KOSDAQ-listed firm, which had been filed against the Korea Exchange. The court reportedly found issues with the process, noting that the companies were not given sufficient opportunity to present their cases and that the market capitalization thresholds were raised earlier than initially planned.
Court Halts Rapid Exit Policy for Troubled Companies
The financial authorities' policy to rapidly delist troubled companies, initiated in July, has encountered an unexpected obstacle. A court ruling has temporarily halted the government's plan to swiftly remove companies with market capitalizations below a certain threshold and penny stocks. This decision has raised the likelihood of additional legal actions from other companies facing delisting.
Korea Exchange to Announce Follow-Up Measures on Delisting Criteria Soon
As interest grows in the effectiveness of delisting regulations following a recent court ruling, the Korea Exchange announced it will soon disclose follow-up measures regarding formal delisting criteria, including market capitalization and penny stocks. Kim Sung-cheon, head of the disclosure system team at the KOSDAQ market division, addressed related questions during the 'KOSDAQ Day' event held at the Korea Exchange in Yeouido, Seoul, on October 6.
Samjong KPMG to Host 2026 Import Car Seminar in Seoul
Samjong KPMG announced on October 6 that it will hold the '2026 Import Car Seminar' on the 20th at the Posco Tower in Yeoksam, Seoul. The seminar aims to examine trends in the global automotive industry and the domestic import car market, sharing key issues and practical responses that the import car sector should focus on. It will consist of three sessions: market trends, risk management, and accounting & taxation.
Korea Securities Depository Launches Campaign to Recover Unclaimed Dividends Worth 45.1 Billion Won
The Korea Securities Depository (KSD) has announced a campaign to return approximately 45.1 billion won in unclaimed dividends and 2.32 million shares to investors who have not claimed them. The campaign, titled '2026 Unclaimed Dividend Recovery Campaign,' will run for eight weeks from October 6 to November 30.
Korea Investment & Securities Raises Target Price for Kolmar Korea Amid Production Expansion
Korea Investment & Securities on October 6 raised its target price for Kolmar Korea by 15.6% to 185,000 won, citing improved performance due to expanded production capacity next year. The firm maintained its 'buy' rating.
Large Corporations Receive 60.6% of National Growth Fund, Raising Concerns Over Inequality
The National Growth Fund, launched by the current government in December of last year, aims to respond to the global competition in advanced industries such as artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, secondary batteries, and future vehicles. The government has set a goal of raising 150 trillion won, the largest single policy fund in history, to nurture industries that will drive South Korea's future growth over the next five years.
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