Seoul: South Korean stocks started higher Monday despite a jump in global crude prices sparked by U.S. air strikes on Iran's main export hub. The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) rose 23.58 points, or 0.43 percent, to 5,510.82 at the opening bell.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the surge in oil prices followed U.S. military actions on Kharg Island, which is crucial for Iran's oil exports. This event caused Brent crude oil prices to surpass $103 per barrel, while the West Texas Intermediate (WTI) reached $98.71. Despite these developments, the KOSPI showed resilience in its opening performance.

On the previous trading day, the U.S. markets experienced declines. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.26 percent, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite dipped 0.98 percent, and the S and P 500 lost 0.61 percent. These movements reflect a volatile period influenced by geopolitical tensions and their impact on global markets.