What Happened?: KT After-Hours Block Trade Analysis

After the market closed on September 15, 2025, a substantial after-hours block trade of KT shares took place, totaling ₩7.8 billion (151,574 shares). The primary investors involved were foreign entities, both buying and selling.

Why the Buy?: Analyzing Positive & Negative Factors

Several factors may have contributed to the large foreign investment, including KT’s accelerating AICT transformation, its stable telecommunications business, and the strengthening of its media/content business. The anticipated expansion of its AI business through a strategic partnership with Microsoft is also considered a key factor. However, negative factors such as intensifying competition, substantial investment burdens, regulatory changes, and litigation risks cannot be ignored.

Future Stock Outlook and Investment Strategy: Short-Term vs. Long-Term Perspectives

In the short term, net foreign buying could positively impact the stock price. However, the long-term trend will depend on various factors, including the materialization of AI business results, response to the competitive landscape, and fluctuations in interest rates and exchange rates. Investors should continuously monitor the concrete performance and monetization of KT’s AI business, the competitiveness of its new business portfolio, the impact of rising interest rates and exchange rate fluctuations, and major litigation risks.

Action Plan for Investors: Key Checkpoints

  • Verify AI Business Performance: Confirm if the collaboration with Microsoft translates into actual sales growth.
  • Analyze the Competitive Landscape: Understand the intensifying competition in the telecommunications and new business sectors and evaluate KT’s response strategies.
  • Check Financial Soundness: Analyze the financial impact of interest rate and exchange rate fluctuations and review KT’s debt management status.
  • Monitor Litigation Risks: Stay informed about the progress of ongoing lawsuits and their potential impact.