South Korean stocks traded 0.63 percent higher late Thursday morning, as financial and tech blue-chips widened gains, analysts said.

The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) climbed 12.54 points to 2,016.39 as of 11:20 a.m.

Samsung Electronics, the top listed firm on the main bourse, shot up 1.2 percent, with Shinhan Financial Group rising more than 1 percent.

But auto-related shares trended lower. Hyundai Mobis, an auto parts maker, and No. 3 automaker Kia Motors shed 1 percent each.

The local currency was changing hands at 1,082.30 won against the greenback as of 11:20 a.m., up 4.6 won from Wednesday's close.

Meanwhile, tradings of some 27 stocks listed on the main bourse and 156 other listed financial vehicles including exchange-traded funds and equity-linked warrants were suddenly delayed for nearly an hour at around 9:30 a.m., the Korea Exchange (KRX) said.

The bourse operator cited an error in the trading system, adding that it is looking into what exactly caused the problem.

LG Chem, a major chemical maker, and Hanwha General Insurance Co. were among those affected by the delay. (Yonhap news)