Asian markets: Seoul hits new records, Tokyo follows. Hong Kong moves against the trend

Asian markets closed the February 19 session on a mixed note, with the technology sector once again acting as the key driver and main swing factor for the region’s indices. Leading the gains was the Kospi, which jumped 3.1% to a record high of 5,520 points. Seoul’s benchmark was propelled by a rally in semiconductor and artificial intelligence-related stocks, reflecting renewed global appetite for tech. In the spotlight was Samsung Electronics, the best performer among large caps and one of the most actively traded names, surging 6.4% and reaffirming its central role in investors’ strategies.

The Nikkei 225 also finished in positive territory, rising 0.6% to 57,470 points, supported by strength in Japanese technology shares that tracked Wall Street’s upbeat tone. Among the standout performers were Advantest Corp. and Tokyo Electron Ltd., advancing 3.9% and 4.3% respectively, underscoring the strong momentum across the semiconductor supply chain.

By contrast, the Hang Seng Index slipped 0.9% to 27,030 points, dragged lower by profit-taking and a more cautious geopolitical backdrop. Tencent Holdings Ltd. was among the most actively traded stocks, but activity in Hong Kong’s tech heavyweights was not enough to lift the broader index. The Shanghai Composite Index edged up 0.1% to 4,140 points, with trading volumes subdued due to Lunar New Year holidays.

Overall, the session confirmed a clear and selective rotation toward large-cap technology names, supporting Seoul and Tokyo while leaving markets more exposed to potential shifts in sentiment, whether from profit-taking or external shocks.

Andrea Pelucchi