Bearish
KOSPI plunges 3.65% to 6,384.24 amid foreign sell-off and semiconductor declines.
The KOSPI index experienced a significant decline of 3.65%, closing at 6,384.24 on October 12, 2026. This downturn was primarily driven by aggressive foreign selling, with net sales amounting to approximately 2 trillion won, and a notable drop in major semiconductor stocks, including Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, each falling over 4%. Concerns over the sustainability of the artificial intelligence (AI) boom and escalating geopolitical tensions contributed to the market's negative sentiment.
Key points
- Foreign Selling Intensifies: Foreign investors net sold 2.02 trillion won in KOSPI shares, marking the tenth consecutive session of net selling.
- Semiconductor Stocks Decline: Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix each saw declines exceeding 4%, influenced by apprehensions regarding the longevity of the AI-driven semiconductor surge.
- Market Sentiment Deteriorates: The KOSPI closed below the 6,400 mark for the first time in two months, reflecting heightened investor anxiety amid external uncertainties.
- Geopolitical Concerns: Rising tensions in the Middle East, particularly attacks by Houthi rebels in Saudi Arabia, have added to market volatility.
Sources
- KOSPI falls 3.7% to under 6,400Aju Press · October 12, 2026
- KOSPI Falls Below 6,400 for First Time in Two Months as Major Tech Stocks DeclineAju Press · October 12, 2026
- KOSPI Falls Over 2% Amid Foreign and Institutional SellingAju Press · October 12, 2026
- KOSPI Falls to 6,300s as Foreign Investors Dump 2 Trillion WonSeoul Economic Daily · October 12, 2026
AI-generated from public news sources. Not financial advice.
