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韩国股市今年上演大逆转
Guo Ji Jin Rong Bao·2025-08-05 13:11

Core Viewpoint - The South Korean stock market has shown a remarkable recovery, with the KOSPI index rising significantly due to strong performances in technology, healthcare, and financial sectors, alongside government reforms aimed at improving corporate governance and attracting foreign investment [2][4]. Market Performance - On August 5, the KOSPI index closed at 3198.00 points, up 50.25 points or over 2% from the previous trading day [1]. - The KOSPI has seen a cumulative increase of over 33% since the beginning of 2025, marking a significant turnaround from being one of the worst-performing markets in Asia last year [2]. - The technology sector, which constitutes nearly 30% of the market, has surged by 45% over the past year, with major companies like Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix posting gains of 24% and 55%, respectively [2][3]. Sector Analysis - The financial sector, accounting for 13% of the market, has risen by 57%, driven by investor preference for high-dividend assets and optimistic expectations regarding loan growth following interest rate cuts by the Bank of Korea [3]. - The industrial sector, representing 17% of the market, has increased by 54%, fueled by a surge in global defense and infrastructure spending [3]. Government Initiatives - The South Korean government is implementing significant corporate governance reforms to reduce the excessive control of chaebols (family-owned conglomerates) over listed companies, aiming to enhance corporate valuations and strengthen minority shareholder rights [4][6]. - The Korean won has appreciated over 6% against the US dollar since the beginning of 2025, providing support for capital inflows [4]. Valuation Trends - The "Korea discount" phenomenon, where South Korean stocks were historically undervalued compared to other major Asian markets, has narrowed significantly this year, dropping from approximately 40% during political turmoil to below 30% by mid-July [5][6]. Economic Outlook - The South Korean Ministry of Finance is expected to announce an economic policy outlook projecting a 1% growth for the year, which is higher than current forecasts from the Bank of Korea and the International Monetary Fund [4].