The benchmark KOSPI edged up to around 6,640 on Wednesday, recovering part of the previous session’s loss as semiconductor and battery shares advanced. SK hynix rose more than 1%, while Samsung Electronics and LG Energy Solution each gained nearly 1%. Gains came despite a cautious market backdrop shaped by Brent crude climbing above $108 a barrel amid escalating Middle East tensions and disruptions to a key Saudi oil pipeline. Higher energy costs could add to inflationary pressure and raise expenses for Korean companies that rely heavily on imported energy. The U.S. 10-year Treasury yield also briefly topped 5% for the first time since 2007, adding to concerns about equity valuations and financial conditions. Investors remained cautious ahead of the Federal Reserve’s policy decision and watched for signals about the direction of U.S. interest rates.