South Korea’s stock market suffered a second consecutive day of steep declines, prompting a temporary trading suspension in several key indices. The downturn was largely driven by extended losses among leading chip manufacturers after disappointing earnings from SK Hynix Inc., whose reported revenue fell short of analyst expectations.

Mesa.

The chip‑maker’s results were a warning sign for the broader semiconductor sector, triggering a sell‑off that swept through related stocks and pulled the main benchmark index, the KOSPI, below its 3‑month low. Retail investors, seeing the sharp drop, began trimming positions, further adding pressure to the market. Exchange officials cited volatility and “unprecedented selling pressure” as reasons for the pause.

Analysts note that the market is still sensitive to global supply‑chain disruptions and the ongoing U.S.‑China trade tensions. The suspension is expected to resume at 10:00 a.m. local time, with traders hoping a clearer earnings picture and calmer sentiment will restore confidence. Meanwhile, institutional investors remain cautious, focusing on companies with strong balance sheets and resilient demand forecasts.