Seoul: South Korean stocks opened slightly higher Monday, putting the benchmark index on track for a 12th consecutive session of gains. After opening lower, the Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) rose 6.95 points, or 0.14 percent, to 4,847.69 in the first 15 minutes of trading.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the index closed at a record high of 4,840.74 points on Friday, extending its rally to an 11th straight session on strong buying momentum in semiconductor shares. On Monday, transportation equipment, metals, and securities stocks led early gains.

In the auto sector, Hyundai Motor saw an increase of 7.38 percent, while its affiliate Kia rose by 2.91 percent. These gains followed news that the companies achieved a record combined market share in the United States in 2025, bolstered by expanded local production and robust hybrid vehicle sales.

In the technology sector, Samsung Electronics experienced a slight decline of 1.07 percent, whereas its rival SK hynix saw a marginal increase of 0.13 percent. The local currency was trading at 1,475.2 won per U.S. dollar at 9:15 a.m., which was down 1.6 won from the previous session.