South Korea must modernize its market infrastructure across trading, clearing, settlement and foreign exchange if it is to overcome the so-called "Korea discount," global financial institutions said at Korea Premium Week 2026. Speakers supported the eventual shift from T+2 to T+1 settlement and the development of 24-hour trading, but urged authorities to resolve existing operational frictions and test the full market under stress before implementation. DTCC chief risk officer Timothy Cuddihy said the objective should be "safe speed," requiring overseas investors to verify trades, secure funding and complete foreign-exchange settlement within the compressed timetable. Participants also cited custody, securities lending, dual collateral requirements, legacy systems and time-zone differences as challenges. The Korea Exchange plans to consult regulators on consolidating separate trading systems, although it will proceed cautiously on a full extension of trading hours. Speakers said global competitiveness will depend on predictable regulation, investor protection, transparency and resilient post-trade infrastructure, alongside corporate-value improvements and stronger listing and delisting practices.