Foreign investors dump about 3 trillion won; KOSPI tumbles 3% and loses the 5,500 level [Financial News Closing Market]

[Financial News] Foreign investors were net sellers of about 3 trillion won in the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange on the 26th, dragging the KOSPI down by more than 3%.
The Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) closed at 5,460.46, down 3.22% from the previous session. The index opened at 5,594.06, 0.85% lower, and then extended its losses, falling below the 5,500 level.
By investor type, foreign investors and institutions in the Stock Market Division were net sellers of about 3 trillion won and 330 billion won, respectively, pushing the index lower. Individuals bought roughly 3 trillion won, trying to support the market, but it was not enough.
Most large-cap stocks by market capitalization were also weak. Samsung Electronics fell 4.71% and SK hynix dropped 6.23%, posting sharp declines, while SK Square also plunged 7.77%. In contrast, KB Financial Group rose 1.87% and Shinhan Financial Group gained 1.41%.
By sector, electrical and electronics stocks slid 4.76%, insurance lost 4.68%, and manufacturing declined 3.71%, with most sectors trading lower. Only paper and wood products, up 4.58%, pharmaceuticals, up 0.27%, and telecommunications, up 0.23%, finished higher.
The KOSDAQ also weakened, ending the session down 1.98% at 1,136.64. In the KOSDAQ market, foreign investors and institutions were net sellers of about 300 billion won and 130 billion won, respectively, while individuals were net buyers of about 480 billion won.
elikim@fnnews.com Kim Mi-hee Reporter