Bullstory Research July 27, 2026
If you're starting U.S. stocks for the first time, you can just follow this order.
Key takeaways
You can start investing in U.S. stocks after opening a securities account that allows overseas stock trading, exchanging currency, and making purchases. The first stock is generally the S&P 500 ETF (VOO·SPY·IVV), and the trading hours are from 23:30 to 06:00 in Korea. Capital gains exceeding 250 million won are taxed at 22%, and dividends are withheld at a rate of 15%.
How to open an account, where to exchange currency, and when to pay taxes. At first, there may not be many places to ask. This single article can help you complete the first steps of investing in U.S. stocks.
Starting with Account Opening
Major domestic brokerage firms such as Kiwoom, Mirae Asset, Samsung, and NH Investment all support overseas stock trading. You can open an account using just your identification on a mobile app, with no need for a visit to a branch.
Currency Exchange is Simpler than You Think
Once you have created your account, you need to exchange Korean won for U.S. dollars. Most brokerage apps offer real-time currency exchange. Each brokerage often holds special events for preferential exchange rates, so it’s advisable to check before your first exchange. If the amount is small, there is also a feature to place orders directly in Korean won.
First Investment, ETF Over Individual Stocks
Choosing individual stocks like Tesla or Nvidia from the start can be overwhelming. It makes sense to first invest in S&P 500 ETFs such as VOO, SPY, or IVV (products that bundle together 500 leading U.S. companies). Even if one stock fails, the remaining stocks support the structure, and historically, they have recorded annual average returns of around 10%.
The U.S. market opens from 11:30 PM to 6 AM in Korean time. During daylight saving time, it opens earlier from 10:30 PM to 5 AM.
Taxes, Remember These Two
| Tax Type | Basis | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Capital Gains Tax (Trading Profit) | Amount exceeding annual 250 million won | 22% |
| Dividend Income Tax (Dividends) | Total amount | 15% (withholding) |
Capital gains tax is settled at the end of the year. If profits approach 250 million won, selling some loss-making stocks can reduce the taxable amount.
Little by little, steadily
Instead of investing a large sum of money at once, it's better to buy a set amount regularly each month. This is known as systematic investment or DCA (Dollar Cost Averaging). By continuing to purchase whether the market is rising or falling, the average purchase price is kept consistent. This method is much more effective than trying to time the market and failing.
Frequently asked questions
What is the order of creating a U.S. stock account?
You can open an account non-face-to-face using an ID on a mobile app. In most cases, overseas stock trading is possible immediately without additional documents.
When and how should you exchange currency?
Real-time currency exchange is available through brokerage apps. Check for preferential exchange rate events, and use the function to place small orders directly in Korean won.
Should beginners buy ETFs or individual stocks first?
Beginners should safely buy S&P500 ETFs (such as VOO, SPY, IVV) first. This reduces the risk of a single stock and stabilizes the portfolio.
What are the tax implications of investing in U.S. stocks?
Capital gains tax is applied at a rate of 22% on the portion exceeding 250 won annually. If necessary, losses can be realized to reduce the taxable amount. Dividends are subject to a withholding tax of 15% on the total amount, and capital gains tax is settled at the end of the year.
Why is regular investment (monthly systematic investment) good?
By consistently purchasing a fixed amount each month, the average purchase price is maintained evenly. The risk of failing to time the market is reduced.