KOSPI Records 11 Sidecars in July, Market's Most Volatile Month on Record

According to the Korea Exchange, South Korea's KOSPI experienced unprecedented volatility in July, with 11 sidecars (temporary halts on programmed trading) triggered through July 22, marking the highest monthly count on record. The market also saw 2 circuit breakers activated during the same period, approaching the previous monthly record of 3 from June.

The index surged over 6% on July 21 before retreating 300 points intraday, closing up just 0.74% at 6797.70. Foreign investors have resumed net buying, easing sell pressure, though analysts at Shinhan Investment & Securities note that a confirmed trend reversal has not yet materialized.