MarketsU.S.-Iran deal buoys hopes globally and eases inflation concernsStock markets in Japan and South Korea closed at record highs on June 18, buoyed by the signing of a deal to end the war in Iran and AI-fueled optimism. (Nikkei montage)AKANE OKUTSU and KIM JAEWONJune 18, 2026 16:04 JSTTOKYO -- Japanese and South Korean stocks hit new milestones on Thursday, with trading fueled by investor enthusiasm for artificial intelligence, hopes over the U.S.-Iran peace deal and comfort with the BOJ's gradual normalization path.