KF vs VYM
The Korea Fund, Inc. vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
KF delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | KF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | - | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $285M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.57% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 52 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +55.19% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +121.76% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +40.09% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +15.19% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 43.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -77.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | The Korea Fund, Inc. (KF) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 29, 1984 | Nov 10, 2006 |
KF vs VYM Performance
The Korea Fund, Inc. (KF) is a ETF from The Korea Fund, Inc. (KF) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year KF returned +121.76% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, KF is up 55.19% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, KF compounded at +40.09% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +15.19% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, KF has the edge at +16.27% annualized vs +7.07%. 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 14.6% for VYM. 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 -58.8% for VYM. 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 0.59. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Holdings Overlap
KF and VYM share 0 holdings out of 607 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which performed better, KF or VYM?
Over the past year KF returned +121.76% vs +26.12% for VYM, so KF leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), KF annualized +16.27% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, KF or VYM?
KF has been the more volatile fund at 43.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: KF -77.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both KF and VYM?
KF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.59, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between KF and VYM?
KF and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 607 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, KF or VYM?
KF yields 1.57% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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