South Korean stocks closed 0.26 percent higher Monday, as investors kept their hopes high about a delay of the U.S. stimulus cut, analysts said. The local currency rose against the U.S. dollar. The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) added 5.17 points to finish at 2,010.81. Trading volume was light at 310.3 million shares worth 3.04 trillion won (US$2.85 billion) with decliners outpacing gainers 462 to 339. The main index capped its gains as foreigners and retail investors opted to sell off shares, while institutions were net buyers of local equities and lent support to propping up the KOSPI.