South Korea's benchmark Kospi index opened 1.2% higher on Thursday, driven by a wave of bargain hunting among local investors.

The sharp advance marks a significant acceleration in buying interest compared to the modest 0.26% gain seen earlier in the week.

The 1.2% jump represents a notable shift in market dynamics, suggesting that investors are increasingly confident in the near-term outlook for Korean equities.

The rally was primarily supported by strong demand for technology shares, which have been a key driver of positive sentiment in Seoul markets.

This buying pressure builds on a broader regional trend, with Asian equities benefiting from gains in US markets and a cooling of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

The 1.2% jump represents a notable shift in market dynamics, suggesting that investors are increasingly confident in the near-term outlook for Korean equities.

The move also highlights the resilience of the tech sector, which continues to attract capital despite global uncertainties.