Key facts
- The KOSPI index closed at 9,063.84 on June 18, 2026, surpassing 9,000 points for the first time.
- The rally was primarily driven by AI-related semiconductor stocks, notably Samsung Electronics and SK hynix.
- Investors priced in optimism regarding a US-Iran interim peace deal, which includes safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
- The KOSPI has gained over 110 percent year-to-date, reaching the 9,000-point milestone just 22 trading sessions after breaking 8,000 points.
- Retail investors have been net buyers of KOSPI stocks, purchasing 73.3 trillion won worth this year.
- The KOSPI 200 volatility index (VKOSPI) stood at 78.74, down 1.14 percent.
South Korea's benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) surged past 9,000 points for the first time on Thursday, June 18, 2026, driven by a rally in AI-related semiconductor stocks led by Samsung Electronics and SK hynix. The index closed at 9,063.84, up 2.25 percent, marking a historic achievement.
The KOSPI's meteoric rise this year, with gains exceeding 110 percent, has been fueled by global spending on AI data centers. Samsung Electronics shares have soared over 180 percent year-to-date, while SK hynix has jumped about 280 percent. These two companies alone account for a significant portion of the KOSPI's total market value.
This record-setting run comes despite signals of potential future rate hikes from the U.S. Federal Reserve, which kept its benchmark interest rate steady but hinted at hawkishness. Local retail investors have largely offset these concerns, purchasing a net 73.3 trillion won worth of KOSPI stocks this year.
Adding to the positive sentiment, the U.S. announced an interim peace deal with Iran, which includes provisions for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz for 60 days. This development has contributed to the optimism surrounding the cessation of hostilities in the Middle East.
However, concerns exist that the KOSPI's sharp gains are concentrated in a few heavyweight stocks. The KOSPI 200 volatility index, or VKOSPI, a market "fear gauge," stood at 78.74, down 1.14 percent, indicating expected volatility over the next 30 days.