Kia

Kia was founded on June 9, 1944, as Kyungsung Precision Industry, initially manufacturing steel tubing and bicycle parts. It later became the first domestic bicycle manufacturer in Korea with the production of the Samchuly in 1951.

In 1952, Kyungsung Precision Industry changed its name to Kia Industries, marking a significant milestone in the company's history.

Kia was established in 1944 as a manufacturer of bicycle parts and steel tubing. It later expanded into producing motorcycles, trucks, and cars, becoming one of the largest automobile manufacturers in South Korea.

Kia opened its first integrated automotive assembly plant, the Sohari Plant, in 1973, signifying a major advancement in its manufacturing capabilities.

Kia Motors has specialized in the production of military vehicles since 1976, when Kia Heavy Industry Co. Ltd. (now known as Hyundai Wia) was established.

In 1981, Kia's passenger car production came to an end after the enforcement of industry consolidation by the new military dictator Chun Doo-hwan, leading the company to focus entirely on light trucks.

In 1986, Kia reentered the automobile industry in partnership with Ford, producing Mazda-derived vehicles for domestic sales in South Korea and export into other countries, positioning them at the budget end of the market.

Kia entered the European market in the first half of 1991, initially selling the Pride supermini, which was well-received by buyers. The company's presence in Europe has evolved over the years, with changes in headquarters locations and product offerings.

The first Kia-branded vehicles in the United States were sold from four dealerships in Portland, Oregon, in 1992, marking the beginning of Kia's expansion in the American automotive market.

In the spring of 1994, Kia began importing the larger Mentor to Europe, expanding its range of medium-sized hatchbacks and sedans, which provided alternatives to well-known car models like the Ford Escort and the Vauxhall/Opel Astra.

During the Asian financial crisis in 1997, Kia declared bankruptcy due to financial difficulties.

In 1998, Kia reached an agreement with Hyundai Motor Company to diversify by exchanging ownership between the two companies, with Hyundai Motor Company acquiring 51% of the company.

In 1999, Kia launched the newer Cerato, which became one of its first serious competitors against mainstream brands, marking a significant milestone for the company.

The end of production for the Kia Pride in Europe was announced in May 2000, marking a transition to its successor, the Rio, which went on sale a year later.

Kia gained more sales in the European market in 2002 due to the launch of the larger Sorento, which was a significant development for the company.

Kia's product range in Europe expanded from covering just 35% of market segments to more than 80% today, contributing to the brand's increased desirability in Europe.

Since 2005, Kia has focused on the European market and has identified design as its core future growth engine.

In October 2006, Kia Motors America broke ground for Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia in West Point, Georgia, representing a US$1 billion investment for the company.

In late 2006, Kia opened its first own plant in Europe at a cost of approximately EUR 1.7 billion in Žilina, Slovakia. The plant has since produced over 2.5 million units of various Kia models and engines.

At the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2007, Kia introduced the Kee concept vehicle, which featured a new corporate grille known as the Tiger Nose. This grille was described as a powerful visual signal and an identifier for the brand by Peter Schreyer, the central figure in Kia's design activities.

In 2009, Kia introduced the Tiger Nose signature grille, which was described by Peter Schreyer as a strong and distinctive 'face' for the brand. This grille has since been featured on all Kia vehicles, from the compact Kia Soul to the larger SUV, the Kia Telluride.

Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia opened in February 2010, after Kia recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share.

In late 2012, Kia Motors admitted error in inflating its United States Environmental Protection Agency mileage claims and had to reduce its fuel economy claims in the U.S. by about 3 percent across the board and to offer compensation to previous vehicle buyers.

In April 2013, Kia's accumulated overseas sales surpassed 50 million units, reflecting the company's strong global presence and market demand for its vehicles.

In December 2013, Kia launched its social contribution website, showcasing its commitment to corporate social responsibility.

Kia CEO Hyoung-Keun Lee and the President of Mexico Enrique Peña Nieto revealed details of the $1 billion manufacturing plant in the city of Pesquería, which was expected to produce 300,000 cars a year and faced controversies due to the construction conditions and land purchase.

In 2014, Kia officially sponsored the Busan International Film Festival, demonstrating its support for the global film industry.

As of December 31, 2015, the Hyundai Motor Company owns a 33.88% stake in Kia Motors, and Kia Motors is a part owner of 22 Hyundai companies.

At the 2016 Geneva International Motor Show, Kia unveiled three new models for the European market, demonstrating its focus on innovation and expansion.

Kia provided a vehicle fleet for UEFA EURO 2016, demonstrating its support and involvement in the prestigious football event.

Kia's Optima and Sedona models received the Autopacific's 2016 Ideal Vehicle Awards, recognizing their excellence in design and performance.

Kia implemented a green space expansion initiative around its production sites, demonstrating its commitment to environmental sustainability.

Kia showcased its latest models and innovations at the 2016 Paris Motor Show.

The 2017 Kia Sorento has been awarded the Top Safety Pick Plus rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Kia Lucky Motors began selling cars in Pakistan in 2018 and introduced locally manufactured products, including Kia Sportage and Kia Picanto, in quarter 4 2019.

Kia entered the Indian market with the 'Made for India' SUV- SP2 Concept, now known as Kia Seltos, after signing an MOU for a total investment of Rs.12,900 crore and building a production facility with an annual capacity of 300,000 units in Andhra Pradesh.

Kia crossed 100,000 car sales in India on 31 July 2020, becoming the fastest car manufacturer to achieve this milestone in the country.

Kia's annual revenues exceed US$17 billion, reflecting its significant economic impact and global presence.

In June 2022, Kia's vehicle exports from Korea surpassed 15 million units, highlighting its significant contribution to the global automotive industry.

As of March 2023, the board of directors of Kia includes Chung Eui-sun as Chairman, Song Ho-sung as President and CEO, and several other key executives and outside directors.

Kia holds a 30% stake in the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Rus plant in St. Petersburg, which is being sold in December 2023 due to the problems associated with the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. The contract includes a two year buy back clause.