South Korean shares started the week in green, led by semiconductor and battery stocks. Major market mover Samsung Electronics ( KRX:005930) added nearly 4% at market close, lifting overall markets.

The Korea Composite Stock Price Index, or Kospi, was up 29.16 points, or 1.13%, to close at 2,612.43. The Kosdaq also increased by 13.07 points, or 1.80%, to 740.48.

In economic news, the Korea Automobile Manufacturers Association (KAMA) and the Korea Association of Robot Industry (KAR) signed a memorandum of understanding to boost collaboration in merging the mobility and robotics sectors.

The agreement is aimed at promoting technology integration, policy development, and industry events.

In corporate news, Kia (KRX:000270) reported third-quarter net income attributable to shareholders of the parent company of 2.267 trillion won, up from 2.220 trillion won a year earlier.

Sales for the quarter ended September was 26.519 trillion won, up from 25.545 trillion won in the year-ago period.

Sales rose in North America, India, the Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific due to strong demand for key RV models while decreased electric vehicle sales and subcompact supply issues in Europe led to a 0.8% decline in overseas sales.

On the domestic front, sales fell due to lower industry demand and a temporary production halt at the Kia AutoLand Hwaseong facility.

Looking ahead, the automaker raised its 2024 consolidated financial guidance, with revenue expected between 105 trillion won and 110 trillion won, and an operating profit ranging from 12.8 trillion won to 13.2 trillion won.

Shares of Kia increased more than 3% at market close on Monday.