South Korean stocks ended 0.2 percent lower Tuesday as persistent worries over weakening global oil prices sapped investor sentiment, analysts said. The local currency lost ground against the U.S. dollar.

The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index moved down 3.81 points to 1,917.14. Trading volume was moderate at 309.7 million shares worth 4.66 trillion won ($4.3 billion) with decliners outnumbering gainers 469 to 329.

“Concern over industries, including chemical, refined oil and steel, is growing as global oil prices keep crashing,” said Kim Yong-gu, an analyst at Samsung Securities Co.

Oil prices have been on a downtrend in recent months, with both Brent and U.S. crude falling to their lowest levels in more than five years.

Analysts said the failed shares block sale of the logistics unit of Hyundai Motor Group by chairman Chung Mong-koo and his son may also have fueled the day’s decline.

“The failure in selling the stakes in Hyundai Glovis owned by chairman Chung and his son Eui-sun also seems to have pushed down share prices in firms that are involved in the corporate ownership structure of local conglomerates,” Kim said. (Yonhap)