The benchmark KOSPI rose 1.7% to a new record high of 3,720 on Thursday, lifted by optimism surrounding trade talks between Seoul and Washington and gains in major technology stocks. Sentiment improved after comments from US and South Korean officials signaled that the two sides were moving closer to finalizing an agreement that could ease tariffs on Korean exports and bolster investment flows. On the corporate front, global chip momentum strengthened further amid renewed AI-related demand, following upbeat results from major US and European semiconductor firms, boosting confidence toward Korea’s tech sector. Samsung Electronics hit an all-time high, adding 2.3%, while SK Hynix climbed 4.0%. Additionally, auto stocks surged as investors anticipated potential benefits from a possible tariff reduction to 15% from 25%, with Hyundai Motor advancing 7.6% and Kia Corporation jumping 6.6%, among the strongest performers.