S&P 500 vs KOSPI: Which Market to Invest in 2026?

Comparing S&P 500 and KOSPI performance, valuations, and outlook for 2026. Which market offers better returns?

🤖 AI Analyst4 stocks analyzed⏱ 10 min read📅 2026-02-04

S&P 500 vs KOSPI: 2026 Comparison

| Metric | S&P 500 | KOSPI |

|--------|---------|-------|

| P/E Ratio | 22x | 11x |

| P/B Ratio | 4.5x | 0.9x |

| Dividend Yield | 1.3% | 2.5% |

| EPS Growth | 12% | 18% |

World's deepest, most liquid market

Home to AI mega-cap leaders (NVDA, MSFT, AAPL)

Strong corporate governance standards

Dollar-denominated (safe haven currency)

15% annualized returns over 10 years

Trading at half the P/E of S&P 500

Value-Up Program as structural catalyst

World-class companies at deep discounts

Higher EPS growth expectations

Won weakness means cheaper entry for foreign investors

**Recommended: 60% S&P 500, 40% KOSPI**

The S&P 500 offers quality and AI exposure, while KOSPI offers deep value and reform catalysts. This combination maximizes risk-adjusted returns.

KOSPI has outperformed S&P 500 in recovery years (2009, 2020)

S&P 500 dominates in AI/tech-driven bull markets

Korean market tends to lead in commodity/manufacturing cycles

⚠️ This information does not constitute investment advice. Investment decisions should be made at your own judgment.

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