In Seoul, Samsung Electronics climbed 3.1% and LG Electronics added 1.8%.

WSJ: Exporters, Banks Lift Asian Stocks

So it was not surprising to see him as principal speaker at a Dec. 3 forum in Seoul, celebrating South Korea's recovery from the Asian financial crisis.

CNN: Of 'Fur-gate' and Other Fights

Japan's Nikkei ended February with an 11% gain, while benchmarks in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Seoul and Sydney finished the month higher by 6.3%, 5.9%, 3.8% and 0.8%, respectively.

WSJ: Asian Shares Rise

South Korea's Kospi Composite was down 0.3% at 1, 957.21, with investors in Seoul finding comfort in defensive plays such as telecommunication stocks.

WSJ: Weak China PMI Hits Region

Elsewhere, LG Electronics added 3.9% and Kia Motors advanced 2.1% in Seoul, Foxconn International Holdings jumped 5.2% in Hong Kong, and Hon Hai Precision Industry climbed 2.2% in Taipei.

WSJ: Greek Hopes Help Asia Markets

The biggest impact will come from the Basel 3 capital requirements, which could be finalised at next month's G20 summit in Seoul.

ECONOMIST: Why the industry��s best days may be behind it

S.K. Lines advancing 7.6%, and Nippon Yusen K.K. climbing 3.6% in Tokyo, while Hanjin Shipping Holdings added 2.1% in Seoul.

WSJ: Weaker Yen Lifts Tokyo Exporters