SK hynix is a leading memory/DRAM supplier in the AI semiconductor supply chain and, alongside Samsung, represents a disproportionate driver of KOSPI returns, benefiting from sustained AI-related capex.
Samsung Electronics accounts for a dominant share of KOSPI returns and is a key beneficiary of the global AI capital expenditure buildout, providing critical semiconductor components.
Korea launched its corporate value-up program in 2024 modeled after Japan's reforms, requiring better capital allocation and shareholder returns. New rules force boards to consider minority shareholder rights, and a capital gains tax relief program until May 2026 encourages repatriation of overseas capital. Retail leveraged ETF trading has surged. These changes plus AI supply-chain demand have driven the KOSPI up 234% since January 2024 versus 63% for the S&P 500.