South Korea's KOSPI extended its rebound, rising more than 2% to around 7,150 on Tuesday and reaching its highest level in a month as Samsung Electronics gained nearly 3% and SK hynix surged more than 7% on continued strength in global semiconductor shares and optimism over AI-related demand. The move built on the index's earlier 11.49% weekly recovery and followed its return from the Liberation Day holiday to test and then reclaim the 7,000 level. Gains also spread to SK Square, Samsung C&T Corp., LG Electronics, SK Inc and LS Electric Co. The advance came despite a cautious global backdrop. Risk appetite was restrained after a 60-day U.S.-Iran agreement expired without an extension, stoking concern over renewed conflict and possible disruption to oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, which pushed crude prices higher and lifted Treasury yields. Investors were also watching South Korea's trade negotiations with the United States, with Seoul seeking to resolve outstanding issues tied to its planned $200 billion investment commitment. The broader picture remains one of a semiconductor-led South Korean equity rally supported by foreign buying and AI-linked demand expectations, while higher energy prices, elevated yields and macro uncertainty continue to test momentum above 7,000.