Overview

• The KOSPI gained 20.73 points, or 0.8%, reaching 2,622.53 by late morning on May 21, supported by strong performances in semiconductor and biotech stocks.
• Samsung Biologics surged 5.06%, leading the biotech sector, while Samsung Electronics rose 0.36% and SK hynix added 0.74%.
• Battery and shipbuilding sectors also advanced, with LG Energy Solution up 0.36% and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries gaining 1.76%.
• Defense and financial shares saw gains as Hanwha Aerospace climbed 1.1%, and Kookmin Financial added 0.93%.
• The South Korean won strengthened to 1,385.45 per dollar, up 6.95 won from the previous session, reflecting mixed cues from U.S. markets.