Seoul stocks opened higher on Friday following slower-than-expected US economic growth and disappointing corporate earnings, which raised expectations for rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. The Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) increased by 19.27 points, or 0.73 percent, reaching 2,654.71 in the first 15 minutes of trading. Investors were also anticipating US consumption data later in the day, which could provide insights into the future policy direction of the Fed. In Seoul, most large-cap stocks experienced gains, with Samsung Electronics Co., Hyundai Motor Co., LG Energy Solution Ltd., and Korean Air Co. all seeing increases. However, Hybe, HMM, and Korean Aerospace Industries Co. were among the decliners. The local currency was trading at 1,377.95 won against the US dollar, up 1.45 won from the previous session's close. The opening of Seoul shares on Friday saw a rise, attributed to the slower-than-expected US economic growth and disappointing corporate earnings, which renewed hopes for rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. The Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) climbed by 19.27 points, or 0.73 percent, reaching 2,654.71 in the initial 15 minutes of trading. Investors were also eagerly awaiting US consumption data later in the day, as it could provide indications about the future policy direction of the Fed. In terms of stock performance in Seoul, most large-cap stocks advanced, with Samsung Electronics Co., Hyundai Motor Co., LG Energy Solution Ltd., and Korean Air Co. all recording gains. However, there were declines for Hybe, HMM, and Korean Aerospace Industries Co. The local currency was trading at 1,377.95 won against the US dollar, marking an increase of 1.45 won from the previous session's close.