The Korean stock market is attracting the attention of investors worldwide, not just because of its reputation but because of the true potential of an economy driven by technology.

South Korea is not a new market, but recent changes are interesting; leading companies are trying to adapt to the AI era and clean energy, which is reflected in their financial performance.

Why is this market interesting? The Korean economy is expected to grow about 1-1.5% during this period. Not as high as other markets, but stable. Most importantly, Korean companies are global leaders in many industries. Samsung, SK Hynix, Hyundai are not just names. They are manufacturers of semiconductors, electric vehicles, and technology components used by people worldwide every day.

Regarding AI and technology, Korea is the second-largest producer of DRAM and NAND flash memory in the world. In an era where AI is a big deal, demand for memory chips is soaring, which means these companies are well-positioned.

Let’s take a look at Korean stocks worth following.

Samsung Electronics is a clear example. The company’s revenue last year was about 300 trillion won, up over 16% year-over-year. Net profit surged more than 130%, indicating their chip business is recovering. Smartphones, displays, and investments in 5G technology remain driving forces.

SK Hynix is another interesting one. Revenue increased by 42%, net profit grew over 320%. This is a clear sign that the NAND flash market is recovering. Demand for memory is rising from cloud computing, AI, and new applications.

Hyundai Motor is about transitioning to electric vehicles. Revenue increased by over 9%, which may seem quiet, but the importance lies in expanding markets and developing autonomous driving technology.

LG Chem is tracking the growth of electric vehicles. This company produces lithium-ion batteries used in EVs. Demand for EV batteries remains high. Although revenue decreased by 6%, this reflects market adjustments.

Naver Corp is a digital player. The company reported revenue increased by 13.7%, and net profit surged over 76%. Expanding digital services, e-commerce, and fintech continue to deliver strong returns.

POSCO Holdings is a major steel producer. The company is shifting toward sustainable steel, aligning with global environmental trends. Despite a 3.4% revenue decline, investments in innovation and advanced materials are preparing for the future.

Celltrion is a biopharmaceutical company specializing in biosimilars. Revenue increased over 178%, net profit soared more than 22,000%. This is a high-potential player in the pharmaceutical market.

Hyundai Mobis, a manufacturer of automotive parts linked to Hyundai Motor Group, has relatively stable revenue. Net profit increased over 96%, showing strong demand for parts and advanced automotive technology.

For Thai investors interested in Korean stocks, there are several ways to invest. You can open a foreign securities trading account with a Thai broker that offers such services, or try trading ETFs that track the Korean stock index, such as iShares MSCI South Korea ETF, which is a simpler way to access this market.

However, investing abroad involves risks like exchange rate fluctuations, market volatility, and geopolitical factors. It’s important to study and assess these risks carefully before making decisions. Korean stocks can be part of a diversified portfolio but should not be the entire investment.