Korean Stocks Rise on Auto and Defense Gains

2026-01-15 01:56 By Mariene Camarillo 1 min. read

The benchmark KOSPI rose 1.58% to close at 4,797 on Thursday, extending gains for the fifth consecutive session as auto and defense stocks supported the index.

Hyundai Motor (+1.09%) and Kia Corporation (+2.24%) led the sector, while defense names advanced, including Hanwha Aerospace (+0.71%) and Korea Aerospace (+1.36%).

Other notable gainers were HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (+3.09%), and Korea Zinc (+5.97%).

Further supporting sentiment, the Bank of Korea held its benchmark rate at 2.5% for a fifth meeting, signaling an end to its current easing cycle and prioritizing financial stability.

The decision reassured investors that monetary conditions remain supportive, despite a weaker won and inflation risks.

However, gains were tempered as caution rose after the US Supreme Court postponed a ruling on the legality of Trump’s country-specific “reciprocal” tariffs.

The court ruled on other cases but gave no verdict on the legality of the administration’s country-specific tariffs.



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