SEOUL: Foreign investors have maintained their stance as net sellers of South Korean stocks for a fourth consecutive month, driven by concerns over the prospects of the country's semiconductor sector and ongoing geopolitical tensions, the Bank of Korea reported on Thursday.According to Yonhap News Agency, offshore investors divested $2.95 billion worth of South Korean equities in November, continuing a trend of net selling that has persisted for four months. The Bank of Korea's data highlights investor apprehensions regarding the growth potential of domestic chip manufacturers, coupled with escalating geopolitical risks in regions such as the Middle East.In contrast, foreign investors showed increased interest in Korean bonds, with net purchases amounting to $810 million in November. This follows a significant net purchase of $4.05 billion in October, indicating a shift in investment preferences.The South Korean won experienced depreciation, falling to 1,394.7 won per U.S. dollar in November from 1,379. 9 won in October. The currency's decline is attributed to robust economic data from the United States and uncertainties following Donald Trump's victory in the U.S. presidential election, the Bank of Korea noted.Despite these fluctuations, the daily volatility of the dollar-won exchange rate decreased slightly, with an average movement of 4.7 won in November compared to 4.9 won in the preceding month, according to the data.
- September 13, 2026
