Industry

Global ESG focus shifts to governance, South Korean companies face urgent response

The focus of global ESG is shifting rapidly toward corporate governance, as shareholder proposals in the United States increasingly target board structure and capital policy. In South Korea, a series of Commercial Act revisions and mandatory treasury share cancellations are strengthening governance rules and raising pressure on major groups. Some companies are moving early to cancel shares, while others are adding exception clauses or reshaping board structures, prompting warnings of longer-term governance risk premiums.

Finance

KOSPI breaks 6,600 for first time on semiconductor surge

South Korea\'s KOSPI rose to a record on April 27, breaking above 6,600 for the first time as semiconductor shares surged and foreign inflows strengthened the rally. The index closed up 2.15 percent at 6,615.03 after opening higher and extending gains through the session. Individuals were net sellers, while foreign investors and institutions were net buyers. The Kosdaq also advanced, and the won strengthened against the dollar.