KOSPI breaks 4500 milestone for first time in 2026
The KOSPI reached a new record high of 4,525.48 on January 6, 2026, breaking the 4,500-point threshold. The rally was driven by retail buying in semiconductors, shipbuilding, and defense stocks.
The KOSPI's just shattered a psychological ceiling. On January 6, 2026, South Korea's benchmark index closed above the 4,500-point mark for the first time in history. According to Yonhap, the KOSPI jumped 67.96 points, or 1.52 percent, to finish at a new record high of 4,525.48.
Retail Investors drive KOSPI breaks 4500 milestone in 2026
Individual investors aren't sitting on the sidelines. While foreigners and institutions dumped a combined 687.76 billion won, retail buyers scooped up a net 597.55 billion won worth of shares. This massive retail support offset the profit-taking from global funds, pushing trading volume to a heavy 25.27 trillion won ($17.4 billion).
Semiconductors and Heavy Industry Lead the Charge
Tech giants were the main engines of growth. SK hynix surged 4.31% to 726,000 won, while Samsung Electronics added 0.58%. Beyond chips, the shipbuilding and defense sectors saw even more explosive gains. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries soared 7.21% and Korea Aerospace Industries skyrocketed 9.41% on expectations of strong 2025 earnings.
| Company | Closing Price (KRW) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|
| SK hynix | 726,000 | +4.31% |
| HD Hyundai Heavy | 550,000 | +7.21% |
| Korea Aerospace | 136,100 | +9.41% |
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