No choice but to leverage
Published: 24 Feb. 2026, 20:30
Korea’s benchmark Kospi closed at a record 5,969.64 on Feb. 24, up 123.55 points, or 2.11 percent, bringing the market close to the 6,000 level as the rally continued. The surge has drawn retail investors — commonly called “ants” in Korea — back into equities, with margin debt rising to about 31 trillion won ($21.5 billion) as individuals borrow to boost returns. Analysts warn that the buying reflects FOMO rather than risk control. Experts caution that debt-financed trading amplifies losses and could accelerate forced selling if markets reverse. [PARK YONG-SEOK]
with the Korea JoongAng Daily
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