South Korea's EWY ETF, tracking the MSCI Korea index with heavy semiconductor exposure via Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, traded near $173.64 at the close of August 24 amid profit-taking ahead of Nvidia earnings. The underlying KOSPI fell 3.12% to 6,697 as chip names retreated following prior rebounds from July's steep correction. Key influences include AI-driven memory demand supporting elevated valuations, foreign flow reversals, rising U.S. Treasury yields pressuring risk assets, and won-dollar movements. Traders monitor weekly volatility tied to global risk appetite and export momentum, with the week's outcome likely hinging on semiconductor earnings reactions and any shifts in monetary policy signals.