Seoul - Shares surged 2.2 per cent Friday on the Seoul stock exchange after recent losses. South Korea's currency rose against the dollar.

The benchmark Kospi index advanced 23.86 points to close at 1,135.20. Advancing stocks outpaced losers 579 to 235.

The main index of the technology-heavy Kosdaq market increased 11.25 points to 354.60.

On currency markets, the US dollar was quoted at 1,358.0 Korean won, after 1,392.0 won on Thursday. (dpa)