Shares end higher on Samsung gains

South Korean stocks closed higher Tuesday as affiliates of Samsung Group, which make up nearly 28 percent of the main bourse’s market capitalization, gained ground amid rising hopes over its restructuring plan. The South Korean won fell against the U.S. dollar.

The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index edged up 21.76 points, or 1.09 percent, to 2,011.80. Trading volume was low at 230 million shares worth 3.8 trillion won ($3.78 billion), with gainers outpacing losers 545 to 263.

Analysts said shares of Samsung Group gathered ground amid its apparent move to emerge as a holding company. (Yonhap)