South Korean stocks surged at the beginning of the week following the release of moderate US inflation data, which sparked optimism for a potential interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve. The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index saw a 1.28 percent increase, reaching 2,670.28 in the initial 15 minutes of trading. The US personal consumption expenditures price index, excluding food and energy costs, met market expectations by rising 0.2 percent in April, a significant factor influencing the US central bank's policy decisions. In response to these developments, market bellwether Samsung Electronics experienced a 1.9 percent surge, while Hyundai Motor, the top carmaker, saw a substantial 4.74 percent increase. Additionally, the local currency, the won, was trading at 1,380.45 against the US dollar, marking a 4.05 won rise from the previous session's close. Overall, South Korean stocks rallied at the start of the week, buoyed by the prospect of a potential rate cut by the Federal Reserve following moderate US inflation data. The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index surged by 1.28 percent in the first 15 minutes of trading, reaching 2,670.28. Market leaders such as Samsung Electronics and Hyundai Motor experienced notable gains, while the local currency, the won, also saw an increase in value against the US dollar.