The KOSPI fell into the 3,950 range on Nov. 28 as losses widened during trading.

The KOSDAQ index rose on expectations of government measures to boost the market and recovered the 900 level.

At 11:03 a.m., the KOSPI was at 3,950.13, down 36.78 points, or 0.92 percent, from the previous close.

The index opened at 3,995.30, up 8.39 points, or 0.21 percent, then reversed lower and extended losses.

Foreign investors posted net selling of 809.2 billion won in the main market and increased their sales from early trade. Individuals and institutions recorded net buying of 572.8 billion won and 240.9 billion won, respectively.

Foreign investors also sold 31.1 billion won in KOSPI 200 futures.

Semiconductor shares including Samsung Electronics, down 1.74 percent, and SK Hynix, down 0.55 percent, declined. LG Energy Solution, Samsung Biologics and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries also weakened.

Hyundai Motor, up 0.19 percent, Kia, up 0.09 percent, KB Financial, SK Square and Korea Electric Power were higher.

By sector, electronics fell 1.99 percent, distribution dropped 1.04 percent and IT services lost 1.08 percent. Construction gained 1.18 percent, medical precision rose 1.05 percent and food and beverages added 0.54 percent.

At the same time, the KOSDAQ index stood at 903.43, up 23.37 points, or 2.66 percent.

The KOSDAQ recovered the 900 level in intraday trade for the first time in eight sessions since Nov. 18.

It opened at 888.75, up 8.69 points, or 0.99 percent, and extended gains.

Local media reports that financial authorities will soon unveil measures to revitalise the KOSDAQ appeared to spur buying.

Most KOSDAQ sectors were higher, including pharmaceuticals, up 6.12 percent, medical precision, up 2.46 percent, and chemicals, up 2.32 percent.

Alteogen, Ecopro BM, Ecopro, ABL Bio and Rainbow Robotics advanced.

Peptone jumped 15.75 percent and Kolon TissueGene surged 18.43 percent.

Wonik Holdings, Eugene Technology and Hana Micron fell.

Yonhap News