South Korea Shifts KRW/US Trading to 24-Hour Weekday Schedule

South Korea is shifting its domestic foreign exchange market to a 24-hour weekday trading schedule for won-dollar transactions starting July 6, 2026 ^[4].

This transition comes as the South Korean government attempts to alleviate a high exchange-rate environment and encourage the return of foreign capital. The move is designed to make the Korean won more accessible to global investors, potentially reducing the volatility caused by restricted trading hours.

The shift follows a period of significant currency depreciation. In the second quarter of 2026, the average KRW/USD exchange rate reached 1,501.93 won per dollar ^[1]. This mark represents the first time the rate has surpassed 1,500 won since the Asian financial crisis, according to YTN reporter Yoon Tae-in, who said the average rate in the previous month climbed even higher to over 1,520 won per dollar ^[2].

Pressure on the currency has been compounded by a mass exit of international investors from the domestic equity market. Data shows that foreign investors net sold approximately 157.3 trillion won in Korean stocks ^[3].

By extending trading hours, officials hope to create a more fluid environment for those moving capital in and out of the country. The 24-hour system is intended to align the domestic market more closely with global financial hubs, reducing the gaps in liquidity that often occur when Seoul's markets are closed while U.S. and European markets remain open.

However, some market observers note that while accessibility increases, the constant availability of trading could lead to higher short-term volatility. The government believes the benefit of increased capital inflows outweighs these risks in the current economic climate.