The KOSPI, which plunged more than 6% a day earlier, regained the 5,600 level in early trade on March 24. The Kosdaq was also up more than 3%. The move was seen as a broad rebound after U.S. President Donald Trump delayed an attack on Iran for five days and mentioned negotiations overnight.

As of 9:11 a.m., the KOSPI was up 201.11 points, or 3.72%, at 5,606.86 from the previous session. The index opened up 232.45 points, or 4.30%, at 5,638.20.

By investor type, individuals were net buyers of 220.6 billion won. Foreigners and institutions were net sellers of 191.6 billion won and 37.7 billion won, respectively.

Most of the top stocks by market capitalisation were rising.

Samsung Electronics was up 3.97% at 193,700 won, while SK Hynix rose 5.89% to 988,000 won. Hyundai Motor gained 3.30% and LG Energy Solution climbed 6.04%. SK Square rose 5.39%, Samsung Biologics added 1.90%, Hanwha Aerospace gained 1.17% and Doosan Enerbility rose 3.38%.

Kia fell 1.73% to 158,900 won, the only decliner among the top market-cap stocks.

At the same time, the Kosdaq was up 38.82 points, or 3.54%, at 1,135.71.

In Seoul's foreign exchange market, the won was at 1,494.10 per dollar, down 4.60 won, or 0.31%, from the previous session.