South Korea's stock market boom has sparked a surge in novice investors, with everyday citizens like Kim Ha-young entering the market for the first time. This phenomenon is a remarkable turnaround for a country once known for the "Korea discount" and poor corporate governance. The market's spectacular rise, driven by a global shortage of memory chips and AI-driven demand, has made South Korea's Kospi index the best-performing major index worldwide. However, the market's volatility raises concerns about its sustainability. As the government pushes for reforms to protect minority shareholders and attract new investment, the future of South Korea's stock market remains uncertain, with potential risks from US tech giants' spending cuts. The story of Kim Ha-young, who has seen her investments double in value, highlights the potential rewards and risks of this newfound investor enthusiasm.
