South Korea: Stocks plunge over 6 percent after hitting record high in Seoul.

Seoul, South Korea - May 15, 2026 South Korean stock markets experience extreme volatility in Seoul on May 15, 2026, with the benchmark KOSPI index dropping over 6 percent after briefly hitting a historic high above 8,000 points. The dramatic sell-off triggered a temporary trading halt known as a sell-side sidecar as foreign and institutional investors took profits while the index ultimately closed at 7,493.18 points. (Video by Chen Yi, Liu Shengji, Jin Haomin/Xinhua/Sipa USA) *** World Rights Except China *** CHINA OUT ***