Stock Analysis

Exploring Three Undiscovered Gems In South Korea

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After ending a four-day losing streak, the South Korean stock market appears to be stabilizing, with the KOSPI index hovering just below the 2,775-point mark. Amidst this backdrop of tentative market recovery and cautious investor sentiment, exploring lesser-known stocks could uncover potential opportunities for those looking to diversify their portfolios in this dynamic market environment.

Top 10 Undiscovered Gems With Strong Fundamentals In South Korea

NameDebt To EquityRevenue GrowthEarnings GrowthHealth Rating
Korea Cast Iron Pipe IndNA2.58%14.14%★★★★★★
Samyang47.03%6.61%22.07%★★★★★★
Korea Airport ServiceLtdNA0.40%27.17%★★★★★★
Miwon Chemicals0.16%12.04%14.03%★★★★★★
ASIA Holdings34.13%8.28%15.67%★★★★★★
Kyung Dong Navien26.97%11.54%19.49%★★★★★★
BIO-FD&CLtd2.01%8.27%22.82%★★★★★★
Daewon Cable24.70%8.50%62.14%★★★★★☆
Ubiquoss Holdings2.69%9.93%14.22%★★★★★☆
Kwang Dong Pharmaceutical40.57%5.48%4.75%★★★★☆☆

Click here to see the full list of 206 stocks from our KRX Undiscovered Gems With Strong Fundamentals screener.

Let's uncover some gems from our specialized screener.

VT (KOSDAQ:A018290)

Simply Wall St Value Rating: ★★★★★★

Overview: VT Co., Ltd. is a diversified company engaged in the production and global export of laminating machines and films, with operations also spanning cosmetics and entertainment, boasting a market capitalization of ₩1.35 billion.

Operations: VT operates primarily in the cosmetics, laminating, and entertainment sectors, generating significant revenue streams from these areas. The company has demonstrated a notable increase in gross profit margin over recent fiscal periods, reflecting improved operational efficiency and market positioning.

VT, a lesser-known yet promising entity in South Korea's Personal Products sector, has demonstrated remarkable financial agility. Over the past year, earnings soared by 727%, significantly outpacing the industry's growth of 37%. This surge is supported by a robust EBIT coverage of interest payments at 318.5 times, indicating strong profitability and operational efficiency. Additionally, VT has effectively managed its financial structure; its debt-to-equity ratio improved from 43% to 25% over five years, while maintaining more cash than total debt. These metrics not only underscore VT’s potential as an undiscovered gem but also highlight its prudent financial management and growth trajectory within a competitive industry landscape.

KOSDAQ:A018290 Debt to Equity as at Jul 2024

KG Mobility (KOSE:A003620)

Simply Wall St Value Rating: ★★★★★★

Overview: KG Mobility Corp. is a global manufacturer and distributor of automobiles and parts, based in South Korea, with a market capitalization of approximately ₩1.19 trillion.

Operations: The company generates revenue primarily through the sale of products and services, incurring significant costs related to goods sold (COGS) and operating expenses. Over the observed periods, it has experienced fluctuations in gross profit margins, with recent figures showing a margin of approximately 10.63% as of March 2024.

KG Mobility, a lesser-known yet promising entity in South Korea's automotive sector, has demonstrated substantial financial improvements. Recently reporting a net income surge to KRW 53.88 million from KRW 16.52 million year-over-year, the company also showcased robust sales growth from KRW 46.90 million to KRW 48.30 million in the same period. Notably, KG Mobility's debt-to-equity ratio impressively dropped from 44.1% to 16.2% over five years, reflecting stronger fiscal health and strategic debt management.

KOSE:A003620 Debt to Equity as at Jul 2024

STX Heavy Industries (KOSE:A071970)

Simply Wall St Value Rating: ★★★★★☆

Overview: STX Heavy Industries Co., Ltd. is engaged in the manufacturing and sale of marine engines, industrial facilities, and plants, operating both domestically in South Korea and internationally, with a market capitalization of approximately ₩639.58 billion.

Operations: STX Heavy Industries specializes in manufacturing with a focus on heavy machinery and associated services, evidenced by their consistent reporting of revenue and costs related to goods sold. Over the years, the company has shown fluctuations in net income, reflecting varying operational efficiencies and external business conditions.

STX Heavy Industries, a notable player in the machinery sector, has shown remarkable growth with earnings increasing by 149% over the past year, outpacing the industry's -2%. The company's debt to equity ratio has impressively dropped from 107% to 38%, reflecting stronger financial health. Moreover, its net debt to equity stands at a satisfactory 9%, and interest payments are well covered by EBIT at a ratio of 6.6 times. Trading at an attractive 80% below estimated fair value, STX also boasts high-quality earnings and positive free cash flow, positioning it as an intriguing prospect among South Korea's lesser-known entities.

KOSE:A071970 Debt to Equity as at Jul 2024

Taking Advantage

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This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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