Korean stock market turnover falls to lowest this year as investor enthusiasm fades

Odaily reports: South Korean stock market turnover has fallen to its lowest level this year, with investor enthusiasm fading, suggesting that this AI-heavy market may struggle to return to its previous highs. The KOSPI Index's average daily turnover in September fell to 20.6 trillion won ($15 billion), the smallest of 2026 and less than half of the peak months of May and June.

Earlier this year, retail buying frenzy driven by AI enthusiasm pushed South Korean stocks to new highs, followed by doubts over returns triggering a 22% selloff in July. The benchmark index has since rebounded but has failed to sustain its footing above the key 7,000 level. Analyst Jason Minsang Kam said: "Volatility should decline further, and chip cycle doubts should clear, with the index expected to trade in a range." (Jinshi)