Microsoft stressed an open AI ecosystem at a National Assembly event and said South Korea should focus on corporate AI transformation based on its semiconductor competitiveness rather than building a standalone large language model. A Microsoft executive said most countries have failed to develop sovereign LLMs despite heavy investment. Participants called for policy changes on interoperability, data use and certification. South Korean ministries said they share the direction but need public consensus and prioritisation.

South Korea\'s KOSPI is nearing a break above its previous record high, lifting expectations for a stock market rally as Middle East geopolitical risks ease. The index slipped on April 17 as foreign investors turned to heavy net selling after U.S. shares hit records. Analysts expect strong tussles around the 6,300 level but see a record high as a matter of time, with semiconductors the key driver. They also recommend portfolio hedges such as IT hardware, defence and machinery.