Asian markets plunge amid Iran conflict escalation. South Korea's Kospi index crashed 11.5% Wednesday as geopolitical tensions widened and oil prices climbed higher. Samsung Electronics fell 9.1% while SK Hynix dropped 6.5%, despite earlier gains from artificial intelligence momentum. Trading halts were triggered across South Korean exchanges as energy security concerns overwhelmed investor confidence. The broader region suffered significant losses, with Japan's Nikkei declining 3.61% and Hong Kong's Hang Seng falling 2.9%. Oil prices continue climbing, with U.S. crude reaching $75.53 per barrel and Brent crude at $82.74, up 13% since conflict began. President Trump's announcement of U.S. naval escorts and shipping insurance provided temporary relief but analysts warn these measures only partially mitigate ongoing risks.
