KOSPI Surpasses 5,700 Amidst Global Economic Concerns

Seoul, South Korea – February 20, 2026 – The Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) reached a fresh intraday high of 5,766.44 on Wednesday, breaking through the 5,700 level for the first time ever, despite ongoing concerns regarding U.S. Private credit risks and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The index closed at 5,759.12, up 81.87 points (1.44%) from the previous session.

Market Performance

As of 9:29 a.m. KST, the KOSPI was trading at 5,719.04, a 0.74% increase from the previous day’s close. The index opened at 5,696.89, up 0.35%. Gains were led by sectors including shipbuilding, defense and nuclear power, as well as financials, brokerages, holding companies, and domestic demand stocks. This rally is partially attributed to the anticipated third revision of the Commercial Act, which includes separate taxation of dividend income.

Leading Stocks

Several large-cap stocks contributed to the KOSPI’s rise:

• Doosan Enerbility: Up 6.4%
• Hanwha Aerospace: Up 5.92%
• KB Financial Group: Up 1.38%
• HD Hyundai Heavy Industries: Up 2.26%
• Mirae Asset Securities: Up 1.7%

Conversely, some stocks experienced declines:

• Hyundai Motor Company: Down 0.19%
• LG Energy Solution: Down 0.5%
• SK Square: Down 2.83%

Investor Activity

Foreign investors were net sellers, offloading approximately KRW 637.3 billion worth of shares. Still, strong buying activity from individual investors (KRW 137.5 billion) and institutions (KRW 475.5 billion) supported the index.

KOSDAQ and Exchange Rates

The KOSDAQ, which had surged over 4% the previous day, experienced a slight decline, trading at 1,158.96, down 0.15% from the previous session. This shift followed a return to net selling by foreign investors, who sold around KRW 100 billion worth of shares.

The won-dollar exchange rate opened at 1,451 won per dollar, a 5.5 won increase from the previous day, exceeding the 1,450 won level, influenced by the foreign net selling and ongoing geopolitical concerns. MSN

Looking Ahead

The KOSPI’s continued upward momentum, despite global economic uncertainties, suggests strong investor confidence in the South Korean market. Further gains may be anticipated, with some analysts suggesting a potential move towards the 5,800 level. However, ongoing monitoring of U.S. Economic data and geopolitical developments will be crucial in assessing the sustainability of this rally. Chosun Biz