The KOSPI index fell for a second consecutive session, dragged down by declines in auto and shipbuilding stocks. The benchmark closed 0.2% lower at 3,920.37 points, despite briefly gaining 1.3% during the trading day.

Amid persistent weakness in the Korean won, Federal Signal (FSS) Governor Lee Chan-jin stated on Monday that authorities would review foreign exchange risk protection measures for retail investors. "From a consumer protection standpoint, we'll examine whether financial institutions have adequately disclosed information regarding FX risk hedging for overseas investments," Lee said at a press briefing.

The remarks followed the government's earlier announcement of plans to scrutinize retail investor safeguards. Lee clarified that authorities have no intention to impose restrictions on overseas stock investments.

The won has depreciated over 4% against the dollar this quarter, which the Bank of Korea attributed last week to increased resident overseas investments and foreign sell-offs of domestic stocks. Lee noted no current signs of risk in financial institutions' FX exposures, adding, "Conversely, some insurers are profiting from this situation."

Regarding investigations into local banks' equity-linked derivative sales, Lee said regulators would consider their efforts to compensate investor losses.

South Korea's exports remained robust in November, supported by strong semiconductor and automotive demand. Customs data showed seasonally adjusted exports rose 13.3% year-on-year, slightly below October's 14% growth. Unadjusted overall exports increased 8.4% annually, with semiconductors surging nearly 39% due to stable AI and data center demand. Auto exports grew about 14%, offsetting weaker performance in petrochemicals. Imports edged up 1.2%, resulting in a $9.7 billion trade surplus.