According to domestic gold prices from GoldPrice.com on October 19, the buying price of pure gold 24K (3.75g) rose 3,000 won from the previous day to 783,000 won. The selling price remained at the previous day's level of 685,000 won.

For 18K, the selling price was 506,000 won, and for 14K, 393,000 won, both unchanged from the previous day.

■ Platinum and Silver Rise Together

Platinum (3.75g) rose 2,000 won from the previous day for both buying and selling, to 304,000 won and 252,000 won, respectively.

Silver (3.75g) also trended upward. The buying price rose 100 won from the previous day to 10,050 won, while the selling price rose 200 won to 9,700 won.

■ Demand for Gold as a Safe Haven Draws Attention Amid US National Debt and Fiscal Deficit

Attention is turning to the international gold market as the fiscal burden of the US federal government expands. Net interest costs for the US fiscal year 2026 have exceeded 1 trillion dollars, with the fiscal deficit also found to have increased. Concerns over expanding national debt and fiscal soundness are cited as factors that could stimulate long-term investment demand for gold as a safe-haven asset. However, the direction of gold prices may vary depending on movements in US Treasury yields and the dollar, so market trends are drawing interest going forward.

■ Iran's Geopolitical Risk Also a Key Variable

The geopolitical risk between the United States and Iran remains one of the major variables. According to Reuters on the 18th (local time), Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the 'seven-day confidence-building proposal' previously presented to the United States to open the Strait of Hormuz remains valid.

[This article is by no means an investment recommendation. The content may merely reflect opinions, so please do not use it as a reference for investment or incorporate it into your materials. All investments are made at each individual's own judgment, and the final responsibility lies with the investor. This publication assumes no responsibility whatsoever.]