Two markets, different profiles
KOSPI is Korea's main board and includes most large industrial, financial, and export companies. KOSDAQ was designed for smaller growth and technology companies, although several constituents have become large businesses.
What changes for an investor
KOSDAQ generally has more small-cap, biotech, software, and component exposure. That can create faster price moves and thinner liquidity than in large KOSPI names.
- Check the exchange next to every six-digit ticker.
- Compare liquidity, free float, and volatility—not only market capitalization.
- Index performance does not describe every stock on the exchange.