(2nd LD) Seoul stocks rise for 2nd session on export strength, easing Fed rate concerns

South Korean stocks surged for a second straight day on Friday, climbing nearly 2 percent to close at 6,687.21 points, fueled by strong export data and a dip in concerns over potential U.S. interest rate hikes. The Korean won strengthened against the U.S. dollar during the session. The Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) saw a 1.64% rise, following a 0.26% increase the previous day, with trading volumes lower than usual at 235.5 million shares worth 17.46 trillion won (US$12.9 billion).

Foreign and institutional investors were the main winners, buying a combined net 2.15 trillion won, while retail investors sold 3.72 trillion won. Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller's comments on potential rate stability signaled easing concerns, while risks from the Middle East and the yen carry trade remained. The Bank of Korea's data highlighted South Korea's robust exports, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) related goods, with the country recording its second-largest current account surplus in July, marking the 39th consecutive month of surplus.

Tech giants Samsung Electronics and SK hynix led the gains, while oil refiners SK Innovation and S-Oil also rose, driven by a spike in Brent crude futures above US$95 per barrel. However, declines were seen in battery maker LG Energy Solutions and financial firm KB Financial, amid ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran. The Korean won ended the day at 1,350.4 won against the U.S. dollar, up 8.9 won.