South Korean stocks gave back part of their gains during the session on Tuesday, but the KOSPI held above the 5,600 level and closed higher for a second straight session. The KOSDAQ turned weaker late in the day and ended slightly lower.

The KOSPI ended up 77.36 points, or 1.40 percent, at 5,609.95. The index opened higher at 5,658.72 and climbed as high as 5,746.36, but trimmed gains toward the close.

By investor type, institutions led the rise with net purchases of 782.6 billion won. Individuals and foreigners were net sellers of 509.4 billion won and 255.5 billion won, respectively.

Top market-cap stocks were mostly higher.

Samsung Electronics rose 1.12 percent to 190,000 won and SK Hynix ended up 1.81 percent at 955,000 won. Hyundai Motor gained 0.95 percent, LG Energy Solution added 0.68 percent, Samsung Biologics climbed 4.08 percent, SK Square rose 1.99 percent and Kia advanced 0.62 percent.

Hanwha Aerospace fell 3.09 percent and Doosan Enerbility slid 1.46 percent.

The KOSDAQ ended down 0.85 point, or 0.07 percent, at 1,136.83. Individuals were net buyers of 253.7 billion won, while foreigners and institutions were net sellers of 81.3 billion won and 125.2 billion won, respectively.

In the Seoul foreign exchange market, the won was quoted at 1,465.90 per dollar, up 9.60 won, or 0.65 percent, from the previous session.