Complete Guide to Investing in K-Defense & Space ETFs

TIGER K-Defense & Space ETF (438580) – In-Depth Analysis

The TIGER K-Defense & Space ETF is a thematic ETF that focuses on Korea's growing defense and aerospace industries. Managed by Mirae Asset, this ETF captures the momentum of both ground-based and space defense technologies, benefiting from increasing government investment and global demand.

📌 Basic Information

ETF Name	TIGER K-Defense & Space
Ticker	438580
Asset Manager	Mirae Asset Global Investments
Inception Date	October 25, 2022
Total Expense Ratio	0.45%
Dividend	Annual
Category	Thematic / Domestic Equity ETF
Underlying Index	FnGuide K-Defense & Space Index

💼 Top Holdings

• Hanwha Aerospace: 24.5% – Aerospace, military engines, and systems
• LIG Nex1: 16.2% – Missile systems and smart weapons
• Hanwha Systems: 11.5% – Defense ICT, radar, space and satellite tech
• Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI): 10.1% – Fighter jets and space launch platforms
• Innospace: 4.8% – Korean private space launcher company
• Others include Doosan Enerbility, Hyundai Rotem, and related aerospace suppliers

📈 Recent Performance (As of June 2025)

1 Month	3 Months	6 Months	1 Year
+21.50%	+36.72%	+155.14%	+181.09%

The ETF has performed strongly amid increased geopolitical tensions and global demand for advanced defense and space technologies.

🌟 Investment Highlights

• ✅ Diversified Exposure: Covers both defense and space technologies including satellite and launch systems
• ✅ Government Policy Support: Defense budget increases, Korea's space roadmap push, and export incentives
• ✅ Global Competitiveness: Korean firms becoming competitive suppliers in global arms and satellite markets
• ✅ Thematic Growth Potential: Long-term demand for aerospace, surveillance, and missile tech

⚠️ Risk Considerations

• 📉 High Volatility: Sensitive to geopolitical news and contract wins/losses
• 🚀 Speculative Space Tech: Exposure to early-stage space companies like Innospace involves higher risk
• 📈 Strong Rally Already Priced In: Entering post-surge may carry short-term correction risk

📝 Summary

ETF Name	TIGER K-Defense & Space (438580)
Top Holdings	Hanwha Aerospace, LIG Nex1, Hanwha Systems, KAI
1-Year Return	+181%
Investment Thesis	K-Defense export boom + Korea's space program + thematic long-term growth

Published: June 25, 2025 ｜ Author: COREANO