

South Korean equities have had a banner year, highlighted by semiconductor giants like SK hynix Inc. NASDAQ: SKHY, the $1.2-trillion chip giant that has risen more than 10% in the last month alone. The market's performance may lead some investors to wonder whether the opportunity has already come and gone.

South Korea ETFs are pulling back, but robust exports and rising AI spending could create a compelling long-term buying opportunity.

MKOR which cut its PM team, has still managed to deliver the goods in a big way since I last covered it (outperformed global and EMs by 3-5x). MKOR still offers high projected earnings growth of 17% at a forward P/E of 8.7x, making it a rare blend of value and growth, and better than EMs and globalmarkets. While MKOR's expense ratio and portfolio churn are higher than passive peers, its diversified top holdings and lower volatility provide a more defensive South Korea exposure.

South Korea's AI and semiconductor strength remains compelling despite recent volatility. Here's how investors can play the opportunity with ETFs.

Friday, July 10, may have been ordinary for those outside the investment community, but for folks engaged with the market, it marked an opportunity to gain exposure to the second most valuable company in South Korea. On Friday, SK Hynix (SKHY) became available to U.S. investors via the Nasdaq.

MKOR hit a new 52-week high after surging 172% from its low, aided by South Korea's chip-driven rally.

South Korea's AI-fueled rally has made it the world's sixth-largest stock market, and the rally may be far from over. Investors may want to keep South Korea ETFs on their radar.

South Korea is emerging as one of the strongest AI plays outside the United States. Semiconductor strength & AI optimism are driving KOSPI and South Korea ETFs.
SEC filings for MKOR aren't indexed yet — common for recently launched funds. Browse the issuer's filings on SEC EDGAR directly.