The **South Korean stock market** commenced trading higher on Friday, defying overnight declines seen on **Wall Street**, buoyed by a significant announcement from the United States regarding a three-week ceasefire extension for both Iran and Lebanon.
Specifically, the **benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI)** recorded an opening of 6,496.10 points, marking a gain of 20.29 points, or 0.31 percent, reflecting positive investor sentiment in the **Korean market**.
This upward movement in **South Korean equities** came despite a weaker performance in **U.S. markets** overnight. The **Dow Jones Industrial Average** experienced a dip of 0.36 percent, while the **tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite** also saw a decline of 0.89 percent.
Further easing geopolitical anxieties impacting **global oil markets**, on Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed ordering the U.S. Navy to target any vessels involved in mine-laying activities within crucial international straits. He further indicated that Iran is actively pursuing a deal and that diplomatic discussions are currently in progress, potentially signaling a de-escalation of tensions.
