South Korean stocks closed 0.79 percent higher Thursday, as a stabilizing yen offset concerns over the negative impact the currency may bring to the local economy, analysts said. The Korean won inched down against the U.S. dollar. The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) jumped 15.55 points to finish at 1,986.81. Trading volume was moderate at 309.5 million shares worth 4.43 trillion won (US$3.96 billion) with gainers outstripping losers 445 to 369.