Retail investors' margin loans double in South Korea

8 articles · Updated · Nikkei Asia · May 4

In April, debt-backed stock borrowing rose to more than 30 trillion won, about $20 billion, in Seoul as authorities faced pressure to shield individual traders.
The surge reflects overheating in retail investing, with households taking on more leverage to chase returns in equities.
Rising home prices and worries about pension security are pushing South Koreans toward riskier bets, increasing concern over potential losses and financial stability.

Are government efforts to curb debt actually pushing South Koreans into even riskier financial territory?

As older Koreans gamble retirement funds on stocks, is the nation heading towards an unprecedented elderly poverty crisis?