The benchmark KOSPI climbed nearly 2% to around 7,980 on Thursday, extending gains to fresh record highs, amid a global tech rally. Semiconductor stocks led the advance after US technology shares rose to record levels overnight on continued AI enthusiasm, with Samsung Electronics advancing over 5% on AI memory expansion plans while SK hynix gained 0.6%. The finance minister vowed efforts to prevent a potential labour strike at Samsung, easing concerns over operational disruptions. Additionally, optimism surrounding the Trump-Xi summit supported investor sentiment, with markets expecting the talks to ease US-China trade tensions over tariffs and export controls. Domestic liquidity conditions also remained favorable after Bank of Korea data showed money supply continued to expand in March, driven by increased short-term funds flowing into equity investments. Other notable gainers included LG Energy Solution (2.1%) and Hyundai Mobis (1.7%).