While the domestic stock market fell sharply, U.S. markets showed mixed performance. As market focus shifts to Middle East risks, there are concerns that volatility in global financial markets could expand on Monday.

■ KOSPI Plunges 5.81%... Risk-Asset Selling Spreads

Amid shrinking investor sentiment, the domestic stock market saw steep declines. The KOSPI closed at 8,411.21, down 519.09 points (5.81%) from the previous trading day. The KOSPI 50 also dropped 6.29%, and the KOSDAQ fell 4.10%, as selling pressure spread across risk assets broadly.

This is interpreted as the result of a combination of profit-taking sell-offs and external uncertainties. Changes in foreign investor flows and geopolitical risks weighed on investor sentiment, while volatility increased in major sectors including semiconductors, secondary batteries, nuclear power, and defense.

■ U.S. Markets See Limited Declines... Russell 2000 Rises Slightly

In contrast, U.S. markets showed relatively limited movements. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.09%, while the S&P 500 dropped 0.05% and the Nasdaq Composite declined 0.24%. The small- and mid-cap-focused Russell 2000 index rose 0.07%, posting modest gains.

■ U.S.–Iran Ceasefire Wobbles... Middle East Situation Emerges as 'New Variable'

In particular, the renewed escalation of geopolitical tensions surrounding the United States and Iran has emerged as a new variable. Although the situation appeared to be entering a stabilization phase following the ceasefire agreement, recent U.S. military responses and Iran's retaliatory movements have led to assessments that the Middle East situation is becoming unsettled again.

With signs of the ceasefire faltering—including successive attacks on ships and facilities linked to U.S. forces—there are concerns that this could act as a burden on international oil prices and global financial markets.

■ Key Themes for Monday's Session: Middle East Risk, Oil Prices, Foreign Investor Flows

There are forecasts that the domestic stock market on Monday may react more sensitively to Middle East risks, international oil prices, and changes in foreign investor flows than to the mixed performance of U.S. markets. If the ceasefire restores stability, risk appetite could recover; however, if tensions escalate further, the flight to safe-haven assets could strengthen, potentially expanding volatility in the domestic stock market.

Market participants are closely watching additional U.S.–Iran-related news, international oil price trends, and foreign trading flows as key variables that will shape Monday's session.

[※ This article is for investment reference only and does not recommend the purchase or sale of any specific stock or financial product. The final decision and responsibility for investments lie with the investor. This article was written with AI assistance.]