South Korean stock market trading volume falls to lowest level this year as investor enthusiasm wanes.

BlockBeats news, September 16 — South Korean stock market turnover fell to its lowest level this year, with investor enthusiasm fading, suggesting that this AI-heavy market may struggle to return to its previous highs.

The KOSPI index's average daily turnover in September dropped to 20.6 trillion won ($15 billion), the smallest in 2026 and less than half the peak levels in May and June. Earlier this year, retail buying frenzy driven by AI enthusiasm pushed South Korean stocks to record highs, followed by a 22% selloff in July amid doubts about returns. The benchmark index has since rebounded but has failed to sustain its position above the key 7,000 level.

Analyst Jason Minsang Kam said: "Volatility should decline further, chip cycle doubts should clear, and the index is expected to trade in a range."