KOSPI Breaks Records on Semiconductor Surge The Korea Composite Stock Price Index surged past 4,300 on Jan 2 and then topped 4,500 on Jan 6, closing at 4,525.48, the highest level ever recorded. Gains were led by large‑cap semiconductor firms, while the won weakened against the U.S. dollar, amplifying foreign investment appetite. The rally reflects broad investor confidence in Korean tech and financial stocks and underpins expectations of strong corporate earnings. Analysts note the momentum mirrors the dot‑com era’s rapid gains, suggesting sustained market optimism[1][2][3].

President Lee Prepares for Beijing Summit with Xi President Lee Jae Myung will lead a four‑day state visit to China from Jan 4‑7, meeting President Xi Jinping to discuss peace and denuclearisation on the Korean Peninsula. The itinerary includes talks in Beijing and Shanghai, aiming to deepen strategic cooperation and bilateral economic ties. The summit follows Lee’s earlier diplomatic outreach and is expected to shape regional security dynamics. Observers view the visit as a key component of South Korea’s broader foreign‑policy agenda[2][3].

Coupang Faces Multi‑Front Investigations and Parliamentary Scrutiny Seoul police task force was created to probe allegations of overwork‑related death and possible cover‑up at Coupang’s logistics centers, while lawmakers grilled executives over a massive data breach affecting two‑thirds of the population. The mother of a worker who died in 2020 testified before police, intensifying public scrutiny of workplace safety. Parliamentary hearings further pressured Coupang’s interim CEO on compensation and data‑security practices. The coordinated probes illustrate mounting regulatory pressure on the e‑commerce giant[1][2][3].

Security Adviser Flags North Korean Submarine Hull Reveal National Security Adviser Wi Sung‑lac warned that North Korea’s public display of a submarine hull signals a new maritime threat to South Korea, despite doubts about the vessel’s operational capability. The adviser highlighted the need for heightened vigilance amid ongoing regional tensions. This alert coincided with broader security concerns discussed during Lee’s upcoming China talks[2].