On Friday, South Korean stocks dropped over 1 percent as investors took profits following a recent surge driven by expectations of a Federal Reserve rate cut. The local currency also weakened against the US dollar. The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index fell 1.03 percent to 2,724.62, ending a two-day winning streak. Trade volume was moderate, with losers outnumbering winners. Foreign investors and institutions sold off local shares, while individuals made net purchases. The drop in US stocks influenced foreign investors in South Korea, and concerns persisted over a potential delay by the Fed despite easing inflation. In Seoul, most shares closed lower, including tech giants Samsung Electronics and SK hynix, as well as top carmaker Hyundai Motor and its sister company Kia. Bank shares and online portal operators also saw declines, while some food and beverage companies, such as CJ Cheiljedang and Dongwon F&B, experienced gains due to better-than-expected first-quarter earnings. The local currency ended lower against the US dollar, and bond prices closed with higher yields.