KF vs MFEM
The Korea Fund, Inc. vs PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor Emerging Markets Equity ETF
Quick Verdict
KF delivered stronger 1-year returns. MFEM offers more diversification with 704 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | KF | MFEM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | - | 0.49% | |
| AUM | $285M | $142M | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.57% | 2.14% | |
| Holdings | 52 | 730 | |
| YTD Return | +64.67% | +21.89% | |
| 1Y Return | +130.85% | +33.23% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +44.19% | +20.02% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +17.31% | +8.45% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 43.4% | 17.7% | |
| Max Drawdown | -77.0% | -45.3% | |
| Fund Family | The Korea Fund, Inc. (KF) | PIMCO (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 29, 1984 | Aug 31, 2017 |
KF vs MFEM Performance
The Korea Fund, Inc. (KF) is a ETF from The Korea Fund, Inc. (KF) and PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor Emerging Markets Equity ETF (MFEM) is a ETF from PIMCO (US). Over the past year KF returned +130.85% while MFEM returned +33.23%. Year to date, KF is up 64.67% versus a gain of 21.89% for MFEM.
Over three years, KF compounded at +44.19% per year against +20.02% for MFEM; over five years the annualized figures are +17.31% and +8.45% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, KF has the edge at +16.48% annualized vs +6.87%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
KF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 43.4% compared with 17.7% for MFEM. Lower volatility generally means a smoother ride, though it often comes with lower long-run returns.
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -77.0% for KF and -45.3% for MFEM. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
The two funds' monthly returns correlate at 0.82. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Holdings Overlap
KF and MFEM share 17 holdings out of 736 unique holdings combined, representing a 12.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which performed better, KF or MFEM?
Over the past year KF returned +130.85% vs +33.23% for MFEM, so KF leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), KF annualized +16.48% vs +6.87% for MFEM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, KF or MFEM?
KF has been the more volatile fund at 43.4% annualized versus 17.7% for MFEM. Worst drawdown: KF -77.0% vs MFEM -45.3%.
Should I hold both KF and MFEM?
KF and MFEM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.82, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between KF and MFEM?
KF and MFEM share 17 common holdings with a 12.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 736 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, KF or MFEM?
KF yields 1.57% while MFEM yields 2.14%, so MFEM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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