The KOSPI index closed just below 7,500 points on Friday, setting a new all-time high for the South Korean stock market [1].
This rally signals strong domestic investor confidence and a significant legal victory for one of the nation's largest conglomerates, offsetting geopolitical tensions that have spooked international traders.
Shares of Hyundai Motor Group surged following a decision by a U.S. federal court to invalidate a 10% global tariff on the company's products [1]. The legal win provided a major catalyst for the stock, which was already trending upward after a video released on May 6 showed a development-model Atlas robot performing gymnastics [1].
Despite the record-breaking close, the market faced significant pressure from international sources. Foreign investors net sold approximately 5 trillion won of KOSPI stocks [1]. This sell-off was driven by concerns regarding a potential clash in the Hormuz Strait, which often triggers a flight from emerging market assets.
However, the losses from foreign selling were absorbed by individual and institutional investors who continued to buy into the market [1]. This internal support helped the KOSPI maintain its momentum. Meanwhile, the KOSDAQ index rose 0.7% to close at 1,207 points [1].
The currency market remained volatile during the session. The exchange rate hovered around 1,470 won per U.S. dollar [1].
"Despite the continued selling by foreigners for two consecutive days, the KOSPI closed just below the 7,500 level, breaking another all-time high," a YTN anchor said [1].
Reporters noted that the combination of robotics innovation and the removal of trade barriers created a unique surge for the automotive giant. "Hyundai Motor Group shares, which were rising due to the gymnastics video of the Atlas development model, soared together as the U.S. court ruled the global 10% tariff invalid," reporter Yoon Tae-in said [1].
“The KOSPI index closed just below 7,500 points on Friday, setting a new all-time high.”
The divergence between foreign investors and domestic buyers suggests a decoupling of market sentiment. While global players are reacting to geopolitical instability in the Middle East, local investors are prioritizing industrial growth and legal victories in the U.S. The record high for the KOSPI, despite a 5 trillion won exit by foreign capital, indicates that South Korean institutional and retail investors currently have a higher risk appetite and stronger faith in the long-term trajectory of domestic tech and automotive sectors.
