On October 15, Yonhap News Agency reported that the Financial Services Commission (FSC) of South Korea convened an “Emergency Meeting on Stock Market Conditions” in the afternoon at the government’s Seoul office building. The session was presided over by Lee Eok-yon, Chairman of the FSC, and attended by representatives from key institutions such as the Financial Supervisory Service and the Korea Exchange, as well as market experts. The primary focus of the meeting was to assess the recent trends in the South Korean stock market and the capital movements of foreign and institutional investors.

Participants highlighted that a combination of domestic and international macroeconomic factors—including expectations of rising global interest rates, uncertainties surrounding investment and profitability prospects in the AI semiconductor sector, and surging international oil prices—had collectively intensified volatility in the stock market. However, they also expressed the view that the market’s response appeared to be excessive, particularly when considering the rapid pace of the stock price declines and the overall supply-demand dynamics of capital.

South Korea’s financial regulatory authorities and associated agencies reiterated their commitment to closely monitor both domestic and international market developments, as well as capital flows. They emphasized adherence to a “zero-tolerance” policy in combating behaviors that undermine market stability, such as the dissemination of false information, market price manipulation, and illegal short selling. Additionally, relevant departments are making contingency plans to ensure a rapid and effective response if further market disruptions occur.