South Korea plans to open its currency market to 24-hour trading in July to secure an upgrade to developed-market status. The move comes after years of restricted currency trading, hindering its status upgrade. The government aims to increase accessibility and demand for the won, following a roadmap for MSCI inclusion.

The country has seen a surge in its stock market performance under President Lee Jae Myung’s market reforms. The KOSPI stock benchmark was the best performer in 2025, rising 76%. The won, which was at its weakest since 2009, rebounded at the end of the year with a 2.3% gain.

The ministry forecasts a 2.0% economic growth in 2026, up from 1.8% in August 2025, driven by improving domestic demand and robust exports. Exports are expected to rise by 4.2% this year, mainly due to strong semiconductor demand for artificial intelligence investment.

To enhance competitiveness in the semiconductor industry, the government plans a five-year policy plan with financial and tax support, as well as regulatory improvements. Efforts will also focus on making South Korea one of the top three AI powers globally and supporting defense, biopharmaceutical, petrochemical, and steel industries.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: South Korea to open FX market around the clock, in bid for MSCI upgrade