Foreign investors log second-largest monthly sell-off of stocks in S. Korea in Nov: BOK
Seoul, Dec 12 (LatestNewsX)—Foreign investors again trimmed their positions in South Korean equities, pulling out a staggering $9.13 billion in November after a brief buying spree the month before, the Bank of Korea’s latest data shows. That sale represents the second‑largest monthly net outflow since the records began, only eclipsed by a $9.33 billion drop in April. The Korean market’s benchmark, the KOSPI, fell almost 16 % in November after a sharp rally that started in April, as concerns over an artificial intelligence bubble prompted many to lock in gains.
Even though the index has surged more than double this year—thanks largely to a rally in chipmakers and other industry leaders—the sell‑off indicates a shift in sentiment. In a surprising move, foreign funds amassed $11.81 billion in bonds, the largest inflow on record.
Exchange‑rate volatility eased, with the won gaining steadier against the dollar; the average daily fluctuation fell to 5.3 won in November from 5.6 won a month earlier. Meanwhile, South Korean stocks pushed higher late on Friday morning, buoyed by Broadcom’s recent earnings, which helped quell fears of an AI over‑valuation. The KOSPI rose 46.19 points, or 1.12 %, to 4,156.81 at 11:20 a.m.
Top‑gainers included Samsung Electronics, up 1.16 %, and SK hynix, which added 1.68 %. Financials also saw gains, with KB Financial climbing 0.56 % and Shinhan Financial Group jumping 1.04 %. Conversely, Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance slid dramatically 21.83 %, following a sharp 28.31 % jump the previous day with no clear explanation.
The won traded at 1,472.2 against the U.S. dollar at 11:20 a.m., a small 0.8‑won rise from the previous session.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
