KOSPI and KOSDAQ explained: Korea's main stock markets and indices

The KOSPI is the benchmark index of the Korea Exchange (KRX) main board, and the name is often used for the market itself. The KOSDAQ market runs alongside it on the same exchange and has a separate benchmark index. KRX operates both markets and calculates both indices.

KOSPI: the main board

KOSPI stands for Korea Composite Stock Price Index. It tracks eligible common shares listed on the KRX main board, weighted by market capitalisation. For the same percentage price move, a stock with a larger index weight has a greater effect on the KOSPI.

The KOSPI 200 comprises 200 selected stocks from the main board. It underlies index futures, options and ETFs.

KOSDAQ: the venture and technology market

The KOSDAQ market was established to help venture and technology companies raise capital. Its benchmark index is also weighted by market capitalisation.

Reading tickers

Korean shares are identified by six-character KRX codes. Samsung Electronics’ common shares use code 005930; SK hynix uses 000660. Yahoo Finance adds .KS for KOSPI-market stocks and .KQ for KOSDAQ stocks, and Seoul Market Wire follows that format, so Samsung Electronics appears as 005930.KS. Symbol formats vary by provider.

Why the split matters

The two indices can move in opposite directions on the same day. To understand why, look at constituent performance, sector moves and KRX investor trading data rather than the index levels alone. When comparing closing figures, check the index name and the trading date.