South Korean insurance stocks are gaining as record first-half earnings, elevated U.S. long-term Treasury yields and expectations for resumed dividends draw investors to the sector. The U.S. 30-year Treasury yield rose above 5.3%, its highest level in 19 years, improving the outlook for insurers' investment returns and capital strength. Hyundai Marine & Fire Insurance closed at 50,000 won, or about $36, on the 19th, up 0.6%, after reaching an intraday 52-week high of 50,250 won the previous day and gaining 10.80%. Its shares have risen 28.7% over three months, while Samsung Life Insurance has advanced 5.88%. Samsung Life and Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance reported record first-half results, with net profit rising 35.8% and 10.2%, respectively. Hyundai Marine's second-quarter earnings and expectations for dividend resumption also prompted target-price increases to 65,000 won from KB Securities and 63,000 won from Shinhan Securities. Regulatory changes to surrender value reserve requirements could further benefit insurers with a higher likelihood of restoring dividends.