South Korean stocks climbed to a new high on Monday, buoyed by strong gains in semiconductor firms and AI-related shares. Shares of major market movers Samsung Electronics (KRX:005930), SK Hynix (KRX:000660), and LG Electronics (KRX:066570) added over 10%, more than 1%, and nearly 30%, respectively, at market close.

The Korea Composite Stock Price Index or Kospi rose 312.23 points, or 3.7%, to end at 8,788.38. The Kosdaq decreased by 24.77 points, or 2.3%, to close at 1,050.03.

In economic news, South Korea recorded a trade surplus of $26.9 billion in May, a new all-time high, and marking the third straight month of more than $20 billion in trade surplus, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy said in a Monday release.

It came as exports increased 53.2% to $87.8 billion from the year-ago period, the sharpest pace of growth since 1984. Imports rose 20.8% to $60.8 billion.

Semiconductor exports surged 169.4% to a record $37.16 billion, while non-semiconductor exports increased by 16%. Rising memory chip prices amid increased capital spending by major U.S. technology companies pushed chip exports higher.

In corporate news, Hanmi Science (KRX:008930) signed a technology licensing agreement for Sonefpeglutide (HM15912), a short bowel syndrome drug, with Eli Lilly and Co., according to a Monday filing with the Korea Exchange.

The technology licensing agreement is worth up to $1.26 billion, including a $75 million upfront payment and up to $1.185 billion in development, regulatory, and commercial milestones, along with royalties based on future sales.

Shares of the company rose more than 4% at market close.