Will South Korea’s epic bull market survive the energy shock? The KOSPI, South Korea’s benchmark stock market index, has surged past 6,000, far exceeding the 5,000 target promised by President Lee Jae-myung during his 2024 presidential campaign. At the time of his election, the index stood at around 1,500, having fallen from a peak of approximately 3,300 in 2021. Within eight months of taking office, Lee fulfilled his pledge, and by late January 2026, the index had surpassed 6,000, making his original goal seem modest. The market’s 138% rise over the past year has outpaced all major global stock indices, raising questions about its resilience amid growing energy price volatility. The rapid ascent of the KOSPI has been driven by a combination of domestic economic policies and global market dynamics. South Korea’s government has implemented stimulus measures to boost corporate earnings and consumer spending, while its export-driven economy has benefited from strong demand for technology and manufacturing goods. However, the country’s heavy reliance on imported energy has exposed it to global price fluctuations, particularly as geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions have intensified. Analysts warn that while the bull market has shown remarkable strength, it remains vulnerable to external shocks, including rising energy costs and potential economic slowdowns in key trading partners. Despite these risks, the market’s performance has defied expectations. South Korea’s tech sector, including semiconductors and automotive industries, has remained a major driver of growth, supported by innovation and global demand. However, the energy shock—linked to geopolitical conflicts and reduced oil supplies—has created uncertainty.#south_korea #kospi #president_lee_jae_myung #global_stock_indices #energy_price_volatility
