Seoul  - Shares surged 2.8 per cent Wednesday on the Seoul stock exchange, led by gains in the tech sector, on strong foreign buying. South Korea's currency advanced against the dollar.

The benchmark Kospi index climbed 32.17 points to close at 1,195.37. Advancing issues outpaced decliners 641 to 195.

The main index of the technology-heavy Kosdaq market rose 6.60 points to 378.88.

On currency markets, the US dollar was quoted at 1,378.50 Korean won, after Tuesday's close of 1,389.50. (dpa)