The benchmark KOSPI slipped 0.3% to around 6,625 on Wednesday, halting its multi-session record-breaking run as renewed global concerns over the AI sector and rising oil prices triggered profit-taking in heavyweight technology names. Risk sentiment weakened after reports that OpenAI had missed internal growth targets, pressuring semiconductor and AI-related stocks, while overnight losses on Wall Street added to caution. Major index constituents traded lower, including Samsung Electronics (-0.8%) and SK Hynix (-0.2%), as well as Hyundai Motor (-0.9%), LG Energy Solution (-0.4%), and Kia Corporation (-0.5%). Higher crude prices also weighed on the market, with OPEC-related supply disruptions and persistent Middle East tensions pushing Brent above $111 per barrel, stoking concerns over Korea’s import costs despite government stabilization measures. Even so, the downside was partly offset by ongoing capital market reforms, expanding AI partnerships, and broader policy support for semiconductors, shipbuilding, and supply chain security.