U.S. interest in Lithium Americas boosts South Korean lithium and defense stocks, while a game release lifts PearlAbyss.

South Korean lithium stocks rose Thursday as Wall Street's Lithium Americas Corp. surged 95.77% on reports the Trump administration is seeking a 10% stake in the company, signaling U.S. interest in securing critical raw materials. The Thacker Pass project, backed by bipartisan support, aims to reduce reliance on China. Hydro Lithium Inc. and Lithium-for-earth Inc. gained 9.53% and 5.48%, respectively. Defense stocks also advanced following President Trump’s hardline remarks on Russia, including calls for NATO to shoot down Russian aircraft over Ukraine and demands for Ukraine to reclaim its original borders, boosting expectations of prolonged conflict and increased European defense spending. Hanwha Aerospace, Poongsan, Hyundai-Rotem, Korea Aerospace Industries, and LIG Nex1 rose. PearlAbyss Corp. shares climbed 7.86% after confirming the March 19, 2026, release of its game 'Crimson Desert' on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.