For Targeted EM Exposure, Consider South Korea ETFs
A weakening greenback is being compounded by global de-dollarization and lower interest rates, creating an environment for emerging markets (EM) ETFs to prosper. In turn, more investors are flocking into EM equities, but for more targeted exposure, South Korea could present an intriguing alternative.
South Korea's new tax proposals derail one of the world's best performing stock markets of 2025.
It's the new president's tax proposals that upset the market, not the 15% U.S. tariffs
GM Stock Rises. Why Trump's South Korea Trade Deal Is Good News.
General Motors is a big beneficiary of lower import tariffs on South Korea. The U.S. auto maker builds cars there.
Trump announces South Korea trade deal with $350B US investment hours before tariff deadline
“I am pleased to announce that the United States of America has agreed to a Full and Complete Trade Deal with the Republic of Korea,” Trump, 79, wrote on Truth Social.
EWY: Dividend Tax Reform Could Boost Payout Ratios
While there has been decent semiconductor performance, the gains in EWY have come primarily from the exceptional year for the Won and corporate governance reform. Korea has lots of highly discounted, overcapitalised stocks on its market, and changes to the dividend tax code, as well as other mandated changes, are closing the discount. The discount on single stocks is still very present, and it will likely take a while for companies to change their ways, but like Japan things are improving.
EWY: Sitting Out The South Korean Rally
After a poor 2024, South Korea has rallied year-to-date. Valuations aren't that cheap as a result. Meanwhile, fundamental challenges still loom large.
EWY: What To Do When Korea Is Cheaper Than China
Korean equities, tracked by EWY, are once again cheaper than Chinese equities, making them attractive due to Korea's technological edge and U.S.-friendly stance. EWY is around 21% Samsung, and most of the time acts as a proxy for this otherwise difficult-to-trade stock. Samsung underperformed the broader Korean market on the back of downward earnings revisions, and now trades at 9x 2026 estimated GAAP EPS.
South Korean defense stocks track gains in global peers amid rising security concerns
Gains among South Korean names were led by Hanwha Aerospace, Korea Aerospace Industries, Hyundai Rotem and LIG Nex1. The pickup in South Korean stocks comes amid expectations of higher defense costs in Europe, after regional leaders held security talks that touched on bolstered military spending.
EWY: South Korea Looks Like One Of The Most Attractive Picks In Asia
South Korea's stock market has declined recently due to economic and political risks. Weaker economic data in recent quarters has further harmed equity market sentiment. The combination of political instability and poor economic performance has created a challenging environment for investors.
South Korea ETFs struggle despite country showing ‘resiliency' after martial law
It's been a head-spinning week for ETF investors monitoring geopolitical risks to stocks in their portfolios.
South Korea Political Tumult Could Sour Appetite for Korean Assets
While the unexpected declaration of martial law was promptly struck down by parliament, the episode is likely to leave a bad taste in investors' mouths.
South Korean stocks tank as president declares martial law
South Korean stocks faced a sharp drop after president Yoon Suk Yeol moved to declare martial law on Tuesday. Yoon announced the decision in a late-night television address, dubbing the move necessary in a bid to protect the country from North Korea's communist forces.
