South Korean stocks are trying to rebound after a sharp recent pullback, but analysts said it will be difficult to retake earlier highs in the third quarter. According to Odaily, KOSPI margin financing remains at a relatively high level, and market volatility may widen further, with South Korean stocks expected to trade in a range and search for direction through year-end.

iM Securities researcher Kim Jun-young said in a report on the 20th that it is better not to expect the KOSPI Index to return to its previous high in the third quarter. He said the market is likely to remain in a range-bound, directionless phase that could last until year-end. Kim added that persistently high margin financing suggests volatility may amplify swings in the index. He also said that if the index falls further, investors should watch for credit selling risks caused by forced liquidation of margin positions.