KIA CEO HISTORY

LIST OF KEY CEOS OF KIA

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• Eui-Sun Chung (2005-2009)
• Hyoung-Keun Lee (2009-2012)
• Han-Woo Park (2017-2021)
• Ho-Sung Song (2021-present)

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EUI-SUN CHUNG

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As Kia's CEO from 2005, Eui-Sun Chung helped the struggling automaker turn profitable.

When he started, Kia was losing money and producing low-quality vehicles.

Chung invested heavily in R&D and implemented strict quality controls across manufacturing.

Between 2006-2010, Kia launched successful new models including the European-market Cee'd, the Soul crossover, and the Forte sedan.

Chung hired designer Peter Schreyer, who created Kia's distinctive "tiger nose" grille and modern styling language.

This design shift, paired with improved build quality, helped Kia shed its budget-brand image.

Kia's global market share grew from 1.6% to 3.7%, and annual vehicle sales increased from 1.1 million to 2.8 million units.

By 2010, Kia had become one of the fastest-growing automotive brands worldwide.

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HYOUNG-KEUN LEE

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H.K. Lee served as President of Kia's overseas operations from 2009 before becoming Vice Chairman and Co-CEO.

In this role, he leveraged his international experience to drive Kia's global growth through new model launches and expanded manufacturing facilities across multiple regions.

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HAN-WOO PARK

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Under CEO Han-Woo Park (2018-2023), Kia Motors launched "Plan S" in 2020 to transform into an electric vehicle leader.

The plan committed $25 billion to develop 11 electric vehicles by 2025, aiming for 6.6% of the global EV market and 25% of sales from eco-friendly vehicles.

Park focused on two key initiatives: expanding electric vehicle production and modernizing Kia's brand identity.

The company developed purpose-built vehicles for car-sharing and delivery services.

They also updated its designs to attract younger buyers.

In the same period, KIA set specific environmental targets: carbon neutrality by 2045 and complete transition to renewable energy by 2040.

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HO-SUNG SONG

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As Kia's CEO, Ho-Sung Song leads Plan S, the company's strategy to expand its electric vehicle production and mobility services.

Before becoming CEO, Song directed Kia's Global Operations Division, served as President of Kia Motors Europe, and led the Export Planning Group.

In 2022, he earned 2,541 million won ($2 million) in salary and performance bonuses.

His international operations experience guides Kia's shift toward electric vehicles.