Korea Leads Emerging Market Rebound With Iran Driving Volatility

South Korea’s stock market recorded its strongest single-day gain in nearly 20 years, spearheading a broader rebound in emerging-market equities amid shifting geopolitical tensions. The surge followed signals that Iran may de-escalate its six-day conflict with the U.S. and Israel, easing investor concerns and boosting appetite for riskier assets globally. Emerging markets, particularly in Asia, rallied as reduced Middle East hostilities lowered fears of prolonged economic disruption and energy price volatility. South Korea’s benchmark index outperformed regional peers, reflecting its export-driven economy’s sensitivity to global risk sentiment and supply chain stability. The rebound highlights how geopolitical flashpoints—even brief ones—can trigger sharp market reactions, underscoring the fragility of investor confidence in uncertain times.