Journalist

Oh Joo-Seok
  • Kumho Tire to supply tires for Škodas electric SUVs
    Kumho Tire to supply tires for Škoda's electric SUVs SEOUL, April 13 (AJP) - Kumho Tire will supply original equipment (OE) tires to Czech automobile manufacturer Škoda Auto, the tiremaker said on Monday. Kumho's flagship Ecsta PS71 tires, designed to optimize handling and braking on both dry and wet roads, will be fitted on Škoda Auto's electric SUVs, the Enyaq and Elroq, both built on Volkswagen's MEB electric vehicle platform. Škoda Auto has been a wholly owned subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group since 2000. The tires, which began with passenger-car radial (PCR) sizes and have since expanded to SUV sizes, now feature a broad lineup capable of supporting major EV models. They incorporate an in-out tread design and hybrid technology to help maintain steering stability at high speeds, regardless of road conditions. "Škoda is one of the most popular brands in the European market, and the latest supply deal reflects recognition of Kumho Tire's product quality and technology," said Kim In-su, an executive at Kumho Tire. 2026-04-13 14:09:56
  • Kias fully facelifted Seltos leads small SUV market last month
    Kia's fully facelifted Seltos leads small SUV market last month SEOUL, April 13 (AJP) - Kia sold 4,983 units of its Seltos in the domestic market last month, the most in the small sports utility vehicle (SUV) segment for March, according to sales figures released by its parent company Hyundai Motor on Monday. Kia gave the Seltos its first major facelift in six years, giving it a bolder, more angular look in line with the brand's overall lineup, along with improved convenience and safety features. The popular SUV has held the top spot in its segment since 2020, following its release in 2019. Those in their 20s and 30s were the largest group of buyers, accounting for about 30.5 percent, with male motorists slightly outnumbering women. Nearly half of buyers or 45.5 percent opted for the top-trim models, which come with features typically found in higher segments such as comfortable first-row seats and automatic retractable door handles. This suggests that perceived quality including design and convenience features matters more than price alone, even among entry-level or first-time buyers. Its hybrid version accounted for about 38.6 percent of sales. "The latest Seltos is a true all-rounder, combining great design, efficiency, practicality and convenience," said a Kia spokesperson. "We are confident it will appeal to a broad range of customers from first-time buyers to those seeking a versatile vehicle for both everyday use and leisure activities." 2026-04-13 10:30:14
  • Kia to invest 49 trillion won by 2030 with nearly half for future mobility
    Kia to invest 49 trillion won by 2030 with nearly half for future mobility SEOUL, April 9 (AJP) - Kia will invest a record 49 trillion won (about U$32.67 billion) through 2030, allocating 21 trillion won or more than 40 percent to future-focused businesses such as electrification, autonomous driving and robotics, the automaker said on Thursday. The investment plan, unveiled at an investment blitz at the Shilla Hotel in central Seoul, is part of Kia's mid- to long-term strategy to transform into a sustainable mobility solutions company. It marks Kia's biggest investment to date, up 7 trillion won from the 42 trillion won in its previous five-year plan for 2025–2029. Kia plans to launch its first software-defined vehicle with "Level 2+" highway self-driving by the end of next year, followed by "Level 2++" technology in early 2029, allowing autonomous driving on highways and in cities. Kia also said it will integrate its purpose-built vehicles, the PV7 and PV9, with Boston Dynamics' four-legged robot Spot and logistics robot Stretch to tap into what it describes as a new last-mile delivery market, valued at an estimated US$288 billion (426 trillion won) annually. The American engineering and robotics company's humanoid robot Atlas will be deployed in the second half of 2029 at Kia's plant in Georgia with a gradual expansion to its factories worldwide. Kia said it has set its sales target of 3.35 million vehicles for this year, with a goal of achieving a 3.8 percent share of the global market, and aims to sell 4.13 million vehicles by 2030, raising its market share to 4.5 percent. It will also launch nine new internal-combustion models and maintain 13 hybrid models by 2030, building a diversified powertrain lineup, with plans to expand hybrid production capacity by 400,000 units to meet growing demand. "Building on the innovations we have achieved across all areas over the past five years, we will grow at the fastest pace in EVs, hybrids, autonomous driving, and robotics," said CEO Song Ho-sung. Kia set midterm targets of 150 trillion won in revenue with a 9-percent operating profit margin for 2028. By 2030, it aims for 170 trillion won in revenue and a 10-percent operating margin. Kia said it aims to give shareholders at least a 35-percent return over the three years through 2028 and will continue increasing returns in the form of dividends and stock repurchases. 2026-04-09 15:47:38
  • Hyundai Rotem unveils prototype of modified battle tank for Middle East exports
    Hyundai Rotem unveils prototype of modified battle tank for Middle East exports SEOUL, March 27 (AJP) - Hyundai Rotem, a South Korean manufacturer specializing in railway vehicles, said Friday that it unveiled a newly modified prototype of South Korea's main battle tank to the public for the first time the previous day. The modified K2 tank, developed by Hyundai Rotem and its partners with the aim of exporting mainly to Middle Eastern countries, was unveiled at the manufacturer's plant in Changwon, South Gyeongsang Province, during an event attended by military and defense officials including those from the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), which oversees the project. Designed to endure the extreme heat of the mostly arid desert region, it is built to carry out missions reliably in temperatures of up to 50 degrees Celsius. Hyundai Rotem, which took on the project to modify and upgrade the tank in 2024, has sought to equip it with about 90 percent domestic parts. It was made possible after an amendment to relevant regulations was passed by the National Assembly in July last year, allowing defense firms to produce or possess defense equipment for research, development, or promotional purposes. "Amid rapidly changing global security environments, the achievements made through the K2 tank will help further strengthen the country's global competitiveness in defense weapons," said Hyundai Rotem CEO Lee Yong-bae. 2026-03-27 11:26:05
  • BMW 520i M Sport Review: Smooth Turbo-Hybrid Power, Stable Ride and More Space
    BMW 520i M Sport Review: Smooth Turbo-Hybrid Power, Stable Ride and More Space BMW’s 520i, a core model in the 5 Series lineup, aims to balance two traditional sedan priorities: driving enjoyment and comfort. A recent test drive showed how closely it can hold that line. On March 14, the BMW 520i M Sport was driven about 200 kilometers (124 miles) round trip from Seoul to Yeoncheon in Gyeonggi province and Cheorwon in Gangwon province. The exterior matched expectations for a premium sedan, and on the road it delivered performance that went beyond first impressions. At highway speeds, the car’s character became clear. Pressing the accelerator brought a smoother-than-expected surge forward, with power building steadily rather than abruptly. The 520i M Sport pairs a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder turbo gasoline engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. Output is rated at 190 horsepower and 31.6 kg·m of torque, with 0-100 kph acceleration in 8.1 seconds. Stability stood out on highway ramps and during quick lane changes, with little sense of body roll or shake. Ride comfort remained steady enough for passengers to notice. On regular roads, the auto start-stop system operated smoothly during stop-and-go driving, helping preserve the quiet feel expected of a sedan. Fuel economy also held up: the official combined rating is 12.1 km per liter, while the test drive recorded 13.7 km per liter. Design cues stayed true to BMW’s identity, including twin headlights and the kidney grille up front. A rising character line along the side emphasized a sportier profile, and the Hofmeister kink at the C-pillar incorporated a stylized “5.” The body is larger than before without feeling sluggish. Compared with the previous seventh-generation facelift model, overall length is up 95 millimeters, width 30 millimeters and height 35 millimeters, while the wheelbase grows by 20 millimeters. The added size translates into a roomier cabin, especially in the second row, with ample legroom and headroom. Trunk capacity is 530 liters, enough for golf bags or travel luggage. Long-distance driving fatigue was limited, helped by Driving Assistant Professional, which managed following distance and lane assistance and reduced workload in congestion. Over the drive, the 520i M Sport made a clear case for its popularity, combining the fundamentals of a German sedan with a satisfying feel behind the wheel. It is positioned for buyers seeking a balance between sedan comfort and sport-oriented driving.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-03-21 09:03:12
  • Kia CEO Song Ho-sung: EV2 to Debut This Year; 13 EV Models Planned by 2030
    Kia CEO Song Ho-sung: EV2 to Debut This Year; 13 EV Models Planned by 2030 Kia said it will step up its push into the global auto market this year with a strategy aimed at making electric vehicles more widely adopted. The automaker made the remarks at its 82nd annual shareholders meeting held Friday morning at its headquarters in Seocho-gu, Seoul. In opening comments, Kia President Song Ho-sung said, "We will strengthen our leadership in the EV market by launching the EV2 this year." The EV2, unveiled in January at the Brussels Motor Show, is Kia’s compact electrified model designed for city driving, with interior space and convenience features that exceed expectations for its class. Kia said it is expanding its EV lineup by adding the EV2 this year, following the launch of the EV3 in 2024 and the EV4 and EV5 last year. The company plans to roll out a total of 13 EV models by 2030 to broaden consumer choice, while moving step by step to improve products, boost accessibility and strengthen its supply chain. Kia’s purpose-built vehicle (PBV) program calls for the PV7 next year and the PV9 in 2029. Song said Kia will optimize its EV supply chain by diversifying production bases by region, centered on domestic plants and expanding across Europe, the United States and emerging markets. Kia said it completed the Hwaseong EVO Plant EAST last year and plans to complete the WEST facility by next year to produce the PV7. By 2027, the company plans to introduce a next-generation software-defined vehicle (SDV) combining AI-based user experience and connectivity. It said it will secure autonomous driving technology in stages through cooperation with Motional and 42dot. In the U.S. market, Kia said it will strengthen a strategy centered on hybrids and sport utility vehicles. It plans to expand sales by launching new versions of the Telluride and Seltos and adding to its hybrid lineup. Song said cost burdens are rising due to the impact of U.S. tariffs and intensifying global competition. Still, he said Kia will bolster product competitiveness with hybrids in the United States and EVs in Europe, while expanding its portfolio for broader EV adoption. At the meeting, Kia put forward proposed amendments to its articles of incorporation, including adopting electronic shareholders meetings, introducing cumulative voting, expanding directors’ duty of loyalty, strengthening the audit committee’s composition and renaming outside directors as independent directors. The company also reappointed Chief Financial Officer Kim Seung-jun as an inside director. It reappointed Jun Chan-hyuk, chairman of Cesco, as an outside director, and reappointed Shin Jae-yong, a professor of business administration at Seoul National University, as an outside director serving on the audit committee. 2026-03-20 10:45:21
  • Hyundai Motor Group Showcases Hydrogen Mobility at Tokyo Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Expo 2026
    Hyundai Motor Group Showcases Hydrogen Mobility at Tokyo Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Expo 2026 Hyundai Motor Group said it took part in the International Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Expo 2026, held March 17-19 at Tokyo Big Sight, where it showcased hydrogen mobility. The expo is a major trade show for the hydrogen and fuel-cell industries, featuring the latest technologies and business trends. About 330 companies participated this year, and about 70,000 people visited, the company said. Hyundai Motor Group built its booth around HTWO, its hydrogen brand and business platform. It presented technologies and capabilities across the hydrogen value chain — including hydrogen mobility, fueling and storage, and industrial applications — along with real-world use cases. The group displayed the all-new Nexo, a next-generation passenger hydrogen electric vehicle model scheduled for launch in Japan in the first half of the year. It also ran a fueling demonstration using an automated charging robot and offered test drives. During the event, Lee Hyok, South Korea's ambassador to Japan, visited the booth, toured key exhibits and exchanged views with Hyundai Motor Group Vice Chairman Jang Jae-hoon on the direction of hydrogen business development in Japan. Hyundai Motor Group also joined a Hydrogen Council networking session held as part of the expo, where it discussed cooperation to expand the hydrogen ecosystem with Japanese member companies and officials from global hydrogen organizations. Jang, a co-chair of the Hydrogen Council, said the group is building a virtuous cycle by using a hydrogen model that links production and demand to reduce market uncertainty. "We will work with Hydrogen Council member companies to help accelerate the global hydrogen ecosystem," he said.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-03-20 09:33:17
  • Hanwha Aerospace’s Arion-SMET Unmanned Vehicle Passes South Korean Defense Performance Test
    Hanwha Aerospace’s Arion-SMET Unmanned Vehicle Passes South Korean Defense Performance Test Hanwha Aerospace said on the 19th that its multipurpose unmanned vehicle, the Arion-SMET, has completed a Defense Acquisition Program Administration performance verification test as the sole participant. The vehicle is a key asset in the South Korean Army’s future force concept known as “Army Tiger 4.0.” The evaluation, conducted with full-scale equipment from the 3rd for about three weeks, assessed six items including top speed and operating range. The test was designed to compare the performance claims submitted by defense companies. Additional checks were reported to include the military’s view that remote-control distance exceeding the required performance should be compared, and whether any updates had been made to equipment entered in the verification test. Hyundai Rotem, which competed with Hanwha Aerospace for the program, did not take part after raising concerns about the fairness of the evaluation. The Army test and evaluation team previously conducted a five-month purchase trial from September 2024 to February 2025, and all companies’ equipment was judged suitable for combat use. A Hanwha Aerospace official said the company is “faithfully carrying out the project in line with all conditions required by the government,” adding that it will deliver the Arion-SMET, which it said has strong performance, in time to meet the military’s needs.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-03-19 17:24:07
  • Porsche to Expand EV Push in South Korea With Cayenne Electric, Korean Battery Cells
    Porsche to Expand EV Push in South Korea With Cayenne Electric, Korean Battery Cells Porsche, the sports-car maker, is strengthening its electrified lineup in South Korea, led by the Cayenne Electric, which is set for an official local launch in the second half of this year. The company also plans to increase EV investment in the market. Starting this year, Porsche’s all-electric models sold in South Korea will use Korean battery cells, a move aimed at reinforcing its lead in the premium EV segment priced above 100 million won. Matthias Busse, CEO of Porsche Korea, announced the plan on the 19th at a 2026 New Year media briefing in Seoul’s Gwangjin District, calling South Korea “a market where the shift to electrification is moving quickly.” Porsche Korea delivered 10,746 vehicles last year, up 30% from a year earlier, topping 10,000 units for the second time since its establishment despite what it described as a difficult external environment. Electrified models drove the gains. Last year’s sales mix was 38% internal-combustion vehicles, 34% all-electric vehicles and 28% plug-in hybrids. Electrified models accounted for 62%, or 6,630 vehicles. That contrasts with Porsche’s global sales structure, which the company said is centered on internal-combustion models at 66%. Porsche said it will broaden its electrification push in South Korea. Christiane Zorn, head of overseas and emerging markets at Porsche AG, presented the company’s cooperation strategy for the Korean EV market and said the Cayenne Electric, due in the second half, will use battery cells from LG Energy Solution. Porsche previously used battery packs from LG Energy Solution and Samsung SDI in the Taycan and Macan Electric, respectively. The Macan used batteries from China’s CATL through 2024, but switched to Samsung SDI batteries starting this year. “Electrification is not simply a change in powertrain; it is a process of combining new technology with our high-performance DNA,” Zorn said. She added that Porsche plans to apply Korean battery cells to major models sold in South Korea starting this year. Porsche’s overseas and emerging markets region consists of eight countries, including South Korea. South Korea’s share rose to 19% in 2025 from 14% in 2018, the company said. Last year, South Korea became Porsche’s fifth-largest market globally, ranking second in Taycan sales, third in Panamera sales and fourth in Cayenne sales. It also ranked sixth worldwide in all-electric vehicle sales. The Cayenne Electric made its first appearance in South Korea at the event. Porsche said it will launch the new 911 Turbo S and the Macan GTS in the first half of this year. In the second half, it plans to introduce the Panamera Red Exclusive and the Cayenne Electric. The Cayenne Electric is a battery-electric vehicle developed from the heritage of Porsche’s Cayenne sport utility vehicle line. It uses a Formula E-based regenerative braking system to boost performance. The Cayenne Turbo Electric produces 1,156 horsepower and 153.0 kg·m of maximum torque under launch control. It accelerates from 0 to 100 kph in 2.5 seconds and has a top speed of 260 kph. It supports charging up to 400 kW. Porsche said it also considered long-distance driving and off-road capability. The exterior keeps the existing design identity while adding more forward-looking elements. Inside, Porsche applied its “Porsche Driver Experience,” featuring what it called the widest flow display in the brand’s history to strengthen an intuitive interface and personalization features. Personalization options include 13 exterior colors, nine wheel designs and 12 interior combinations, along with up to five interior packages and accent packages. Porsche also unveiled the Panamera Red Exclusive in South Korea. The model is limited to 100 units for the Korean market. Based on the Panamera 4, it includes a sport design package, 21-inch wheels and exclusive taillights. Porsche paired Guard Red and Bordeaux Red to emphasize a sporty look and added red lettering on the exterior for differentiation. Busse said Porsche will pursue “value-focused growth” this year based on its electrification leadership, and will make qualitative growth a core goal by expanding its electrified lineup, strengthening brand experiences and expanding its network. 2026-03-19 16:21:15
  • KAI Names Defense Expert Kim Jong-chul CEO, Pledges One Team Push
    KAI Names Defense Expert Kim Jong-chul CEO, Pledges 'One Team' Push Korea Aerospace Industries, or KAI, said it held an inauguration ceremony Thursday at its headquarters in Sacheon, South Gyeongsang province, formally appointing Kim Jong-chul as its ninth CEO. His official term is three years. KAI described Kim, a 31st class graduate of the Air Force Academy, as a defense industry expert who has held key posts in the Air Force and the Defense Acquisition Program Administration. While working at the Defense Ministry, Kim conducted cost analyses for the KT-1 and T-50 programs. At the Office for Government Policy Coordination, he led the creation of the defense sector’s first dedicated organization for arms exports, the company said. As head of DAPA’s command and reconnaissance programs division, Kim planned a range of strategic weapons projects, including reconnaissance satellites, and is seen as having a strong grasp of future aerospace and defense industries, KAI said. In his inaugural address, Kim said he would seek growth opportunities despite an uncertain external environment. He called rapid technological advances and ongoing wars a rare “golden time,” and pledged relentless innovation and challenge. He outlined four management priorities for KAI’s renewed growth: continuous innovation and challenge; developing cash-cow businesses and expanding the future business portfolio; building a win-win cooperation ecosystem; and creating “One Team KAI.” Kim said KAI will expand existing revenue-generating businesses across fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft, unmanned systems, satellites, software and avionics components, including the KF-21 Boramae, which is to be delivered to the Air Force in the second half of this year. He said the company will also pursue portfolio expansion to secure future growth engines in areas such as software represented by AI pilots, avionics, manned-unmanned teaming systems, unmanned aircraft and drones, guided weapons systems and space projects. To support that effort, Kim pledged to reorganize the company and establish a performance-based personnel system to foster a research and development environment that does not fear failure. Kim also emphasized expanding strategic cooperation with domestic defense companies in line with the government’s “Team Korea” policy. He said KAI will build a horizontal communication system so all employees, including those at subsidiaries, work toward shared goals under a “One Team KAI” approach. After the ceremony, Kim inspected the production site for a mass-produced KF-21 aircraft scheduled to roll out at the end of March. He also visited major production lines and offices, including the fixed-wing and rotary-wing divisions, the space center and the development center, to review on-site conditions.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-03-19 15:57:22