Journalist

Han Ji-hyun
  • Oil Prices Jump on U.S.-Israel-Iran War, Boosting Interest in Hybrids and EVs
    Oil Prices Jump on U.S.-Israel-Iran War, Boosting Interest in Hybrids and EVs The war involving the United States, Israel and Iran has sent international oil prices sharply higher, fueling consumer anxiety. If volatility persists, demand is likely to shift from internal-combustion vehicles to hybrids and electric vehicles. Some in the industry say eco-friendly models could account for more than half of Hyundai Motor Group’s domestic sales this year. According to industry officials on Tuesday, Dubai crude futures traded on the New York Mercantile Exchange closed at $80.39 a barrel the previous day, up 5.04% from the prior session. That was a 12.7% jump in three trading days from Feb. 27, just before the war began, when it was $71.81 a barrel. After holding a steady $66 to $68 a barrel on average in February, prices have surged more than 5% a day since the Strait of Hormuz was blocked following U.S. airstrikes on Iran, the report said. Experts said a prolonged conflict could push oil to around $130 a barrel. JPMorgan forecast that if Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz drags on and disrupts maritime transport for three to four weeks, oil would rise above $100 a barrel. In that case, gasoline now priced at about 1,739 won per liter would climb to 1,850 to 1,900 won, an increase of 6.3% to 9.4%. If high oil prices persist, demand is likely to grow for hybrids, plug-in hybrids and EVs. An auto industry official said it is difficult to predict a broad shift in the market based on short-term oil forecasts because vehicle replacement cycles typically run five to 10 years. Still, the official said, if high prices continue amid a rise in localized conflicts globally, consumers facing higher living costs will gravitate toward fuel-efficient hybrids or EVs. Sales data already show a strong shift. Hyundai sold 97,216 vehicles in South Korea in January and February, including 35,897 hybrids and EVs, or 36.9% of the total, up 20% from a year earlier. Kia sold 85,107 vehicles domestically over the same period, with eco-friendly models totaling 48,416 — 30,300 hybrids and 18,166 EVs — for a 56.9% share, a 42.1% increase from a year earlier. If the trend holds, the share of eco-friendly vehicles — now about 30% to 40% of new registrations — is expected to top 50% within the year. The high upfront cost, often cited as the main drawback of eco-friendly vehicles, is also easing as battery prices fall. To compete with internal-combustion vehicles on price, EV battery costs need to drop to around $100 per kilowatt-hour. Germany’s electrive.com reported that EV battery prices fell from $115 per kWh at the end of last year to $100 this year, and are projected to reach $69 by 2030. Tesla, BMW, Hyundai Motor Group and Volvo have cut prices on major EV models by about 13% to 20% this year as battery-pack costs declined. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-03-05 05:04:04
  • Jin Air to Launch Busan-Phu Quoc Route, Expanding Service From Gimhae
    Jin Air to Launch Busan-Phu Quoc Route, Expanding Service From Gimhae Jin Air said Tuesday it will launch a new route from Gimhae Airport to Phu Quoc, a Vietnamese resort island often dubbed the country’s “pearl.” The Busan-Phu Quoc service, the carrier’s third new route introduced from Busan this year after Taichung and Miyakojima, is aimed at strengthening its network based in Busan. Flights begin April 30 and will operate four times a week on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays. Departures leave Gimhae at 7:55 p.m. on Mondays and Fridays and at 8:05 p.m. on Thursdays and Sundays, arriving in Phu Quoc at 11:25 p.m. The return flight departs Phu Quoc at 12:25 a.m., with a flight time of about 5 1/2 hours. Tickets are available through the airline’s website and mobile web and app. The route includes free checked baggage up to 15 kilograms (33 pounds). Located at Vietnam’s southern tip, Phu Quoc is seen as an emerging resort destination linking Da Nang and Nha Trang. Vietnam’s largest island has been designated a government economic special zone and was selected to host the 2027 APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) summit, helping drive rapid development of global infrastructure, the airline said. Jin Air said the launch is part of its push to expand its Busan network. Since 2023, it has opened routes including Nha Trang, Tokyo and Nagoya, it said. With the new service, Jin Air’s international routes departing Busan will rise to 17. A Jin Air official said the airline hopes travelers “experience healing in everyday life” in Phu Quoc, adding it will continue working to develop new routes from Busan and build demand.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-03-04 14:15:00
  • Hyundai Motor, Kia Launch MobED Alliance to Expand Robotics Solutions Ecosystem
    Hyundai Motor, Kia Launch MobED Alliance to Expand Robotics Solutions Ecosystem Hyundai Motor and Kia said they are building a multilateral partnership ecosystem centered on MobED to provide customized robotics solutions for customers. The automakers said Tuesday they held a launch ceremony for the “MobED Alliance” at the 2026 Smart Factory & Automation Industry Expo (AW2026) at COEX in Seoul and began full-scale domestic sales of MobED. Attendees included officials from Hyundai Motor and Kia’s Robotics Lab, parts makers such as Hyundai Transys and SL, robotics solution companies including LS TiraYutech and Gaon Robotics, and related organizations such as the Korea AI & Robot Industry Association, the companies said. Hyundai Motor and Kia said the alliance was designed to meet demand for ready-to-deploy, customized solutions for industrial sites, rather than simple hardware adoption. MobED, the alliance’s core platform, is a small mobile platform with a new wheel-drive system, the companies said. It is based on four independently driven DnL (Drive-and-Lift) mechanisms to improve its ability to handle changes in ground conditions. They said MobED can flexibly combine various “top modules” tailored to industry needs, enabling uses such as delivery, patrol, research and video filming. Hyundai Motor and Kia said they plan an ecosystem-led commercialization strategy, supplying complete solutions with specialized partners instead of selling the platform alone. The MobED Alliance will operate as a four-party cooperation framework involving Hyundai Motor and Kia’s Robotics Lab, domestic parts suppliers, robotics solution companies and related organizations, the companies said. The Robotics Lab will provide MobED platform development and core technology, while 10 parts suppliers, including Hyundai Transys and SL, will produce and supply key components such as sensors, electronics and batteries, they said. Five robotics solution companies, including LS TiraYutech and Gaon Robotics, will design customized services based on on-site industrial needs, the companies said. Related organizations, including the Korea AI & Robot Industry Association, will support demonstrations and adoption conditions to help complete a virtuous cycle for the domestic robotics industry, they added. Hyundai Motor and Kia said they plan to use the alliance to establish a business structure supplying MobED to B2B and B2G markets and to strengthen competitiveness across South Korea’s robotics industry through a sustainable ecosystem model. At AW2026, the companies said they unveiled a mass-production MobED model in South Korea for the first time and set up a 180-square-meter hands-on booth so customers could experience the technology. The booth included structures simulating outdoor conditions — such as drainage channels, uneven surfaces, slopes and curbs — to show MobED navigating terrain that is difficult for conventional autonomous mobile robots, they said. Hyundai Motor and Kia said they are offering hands-on trials and purchase consultations at the booth. Customers who cannot visit can submit consultation requests and partnership proposals through the Robotics Lab website, they said. “MobED, whose innovation has been recognized on the global stage, has been reborn as an even more advanced robotics solution through this alliance,” said Hyun Dong-jin, executive director and head of Hyundai Motor and Kia’s Robotics Lab. “Together with our key partners, we will enhance the competitiveness of the domestic robotics industry and lead the expansion of the physical AI ecosystem.” MobED previously won the Best of Innovation award in the robotics category at CES 2026, the companies said. Hyundai Motor and Kia said they will use the alliance to apply physical AI capabilities — combining intelligent software and hardware — more broadly at industrial sites and continue developing technology so robots become practical solutions in customers’ daily lives.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-03-04 14:03:11
  • Hansung Motor Launches Mercedes-Benz Last Golden Bell March Promotion
    Hansung Motor Launches Mercedes-Benz 'Last Golden Bell' March Promotion Hansung Motor, an official Mercedes-Benz dealer, said Tuesday it will run its March “Last Golden Bell” promotion marking the 140th anniversary of Carl Benz’s 1886 invention and patent application for the first automobile. For the first 140 buyers this month of key models including the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450, E 450 and A 220, the company will extend the standard three-year warranty by one year, for a total of four years. The offer is aimed at reducing maintenance and ownership costs and will end once the allotment is filled. Hansung Motor is also offering a weekend-only benefit for customers who sign contracts at showrooms on March 7-8 and March 14-15. Those buyers will receive a Mercedes-Benz mini travel bag. Customers who take delivery within March will be entered into a lucky-draw event, with 140 winners to receive prizes including Rimowa luggage, an LG air purifier and items from the official Mercedes-Benz collection. In addition, existing Hansung Motor customers who repurchase a vehicle will receive an extra 1% discount on all models during March, capped at 1 million won. “We prepared this promotion to provide customers with practical benefits and satisfaction in celebration of the 140th anniversary,” CEO Kim Marco said. “Since it is limited to March, we hope it will be a special opportunity.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-03-04 10:12:16
  • Lotus Korea Offers Low-Rate Financing Deals on Emira and Eletre
    Lotus Korea Offers Low-Rate Financing Deals on Emira and Eletre Lotus Cars Korea said Tuesday it is launching a special low-interest financing promotion for its flagship models, the Eletre and Emira. The offer is built around 60-month terms, the company said, and is designed to either eliminate upfront costs or cut interest rates to the 0% range, depending on customer needs. Customers who choose a 60-month operating lease with a deposit equal to 30% of the vehicle price and no prepayment will receive an ultra-low rate in the 0% range. For buyers who want no money down, the company said a 60-month operating lease can be set with both prepayment and deposit at 0 won; that option still carries a low rate in the early 2% range. Lotus Cars Korea said its 60-month financial lease and installment plans, aimed at customers seeking eventual ownership, also apply the same 0% range ultra-low rate with a 0 won down payment. The benefits apply to both the mid-engine Emira sports car and the Eletre, the brand’s first all-electric hyper SUV. A Lotus Cars Korea official said Lotus’ “pure driving” feel is realized only when drivers take the wheel on the road, adding that now is a good time to buy as the Emira nears discontinuation and the Eletre represents the brand’s new future. More details are available through Lotus Cars Korea’s flagship showroom. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-03-04 10:00:19
  • T’way Air, Sono Hotels & Resorts Launch Partner Discounts of Up to 30%
    T’way Air, Sono Hotels & Resorts Launch Partner Discounts of Up to 30% T’way Air said Tuesday it will run a joint promotion with Sono Hotels & Resorts through March 31, offering reciprocal discounts to customers who book flights or rooms through the companies’ official websites and mobile apps (web). Customers who book airfare on T’way Air’s website will receive coupons for discounts on weekday and weekend stays at Sono Hotels & Resorts’ domestic properties — 30% off weekdays and 20% off weekends. Eligible properties are Sono Calm Jeju, Sono Moon Haeundae, Sono Calm Yeosu, Sono Belle·Sono Calm·Sono Pet Vivaldi Park, and Sono Belle Danyang. The coupons can be used for suite and family room types. Stays booked with the coupons are valid through May 30, excluding certain dates. T’way Air said it will also provide a 30% breakfast discount coupon for Sono Calm Jeju, usable by two people per coupon. Customers who book rooms through Sono Hotels & Resorts’ website or mobile app (web) will receive a 12,000-won discount coupon for T’way Air domestic flights and an international flight coupon worth up to 60,000 won. The travel period is valid through May 31 for domestic routes and through Oct. 24 for international routes, with some blackout dates. Detailed terms and conditions are available on the official websites of T’way Air and Sono Hotels & Resorts. “We structured the promotion around mutual coupon offerings so customers of both companies can access benefits more conveniently through each channel,” a T’way Air official said. “We will continue to put safe operations first while rolling out benefit-focused promotions customers can feel.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-03-04 09:55:04
  • Kia’s February Global Sales Fall 2.8% to 247,401 Vehicles
    Kia’s February Global Sales Fall 2.8% to 247,401 Vehicles Kia said Tuesday it sold 247,401 vehicles worldwide in February, down 2.8% from a year earlier. Domestic sales fell 8.7% to 42,002 units, while overseas sales slipped 1.5% to 205,005. Special-purpose vehicle sales totaled 394 units. The Sportage was Kia’s best-selling model globally, with 47,081 units sold. It was followed by the Seltos with 24,305 and the K4 with 18,434. In South Korea, the Sorento led sales with 7,693 units. In the domestic passenger-car segment, Kia sold 9,896 units, led by the Ray (3,241), K5 (2,175) and K8 (1,384). Domestic RV sales totaled 25,447 units, including the Sorento, Sportage (3,800), Carnival (3,712) and EV3 (3,469). In commercial vehicles, Kia sold 6,659 units, including the PV5 (3,967) and Bongo III (2,607). Electric vehicle sales reached 14,488 units, topping 10,000 in a month for the first time and marking a record monthly total. The PV5 led with 3,967 units, followed by the EV3 with 3,469 and the EV5 with 2,524. Overseas, the Sportage was the top seller with 43,281 units, followed by the Seltos with 22,875 and the K4 with 18,434. Special-purpose vehicles totaled 394 units, including 64 sold domestically and 330 overseas. A Kia official said domestic sales temporarily declined because the Lunar New Year holiday reduced the number of business days from a year earlier. The official said the company will work to improve sales with new models and eco-friendly vehicles, including the Seltos hybrid, PV5 and EV5.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-03-03 16:57:30
  • Hyundai Motor February Global Sales Fall 5.1% to 306,528 Vehicles
    Hyundai Motor February Global Sales Fall 5.1% to 306,528 Vehicles Hyundai Motor Co. said Tuesday its global sales in February totaled 306,528 vehicles, down 5.1% from a year earlier. Domestic sales fell 17.8% to 47,008 units, while overseas sales slipped 2.3% to 259,520, the company said. In South Korea, Hyundai sold 13,568 sedans. The Sonata led the segment with 4,436 units, followed by the Grandeur with 3,933 and the Avante with 3,628. Sales of recreational vehicles totaled 18,756, led by the Palisade (3,081), Tucson (2,972), Kona (2,876), Santa Fe (2,679) and Casper (1,171). The Porter posted sales of 4,634 units and the Staria 1,781. Medium and large buses and trucks totaled 1,122 units. Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury brand, sold 6,942 vehicles, including the G80 (2,247), GV70 (2,206) and GV80 (1,689). A Hyundai official said sales fell because there were fewer selling days due to the Lunar New Year holiday. The company will pursue “optimal sales strategies,” including raising the share of eco-friendly vehicles and strengthening its hybrid lineup, the official said. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-03-03 16:01:11
  • K Car Names aespa’s Karina as New Brand Ambassador for 2026 Campaign
    K Car Names aespa’s Karina as New Brand Ambassador for 2026 Campaign Used-car platform company K Car said Tuesday it has launched its new 2026 brand campaign, “People Who Put Cars First,” and selected Karina of the K-pop group aespa as its brand model. Through the campaign, K Car said it aims to highlight its expertise as the No. 1 used-car company, emphasizing a message of “professional staff who do not compromise when it comes to cars” and a platform for people who value and care for their vehicles. The company said the campaign reflects its direct-operation model, in which it buys vehicles itself and takes responsibility from inspection and sales through post-sale support, portraying employees as “people who put cars first.” K Car said the campaign uses a simple, witty setup to draw attention. In the video, even as the popular, trend-setting Karina walks by, K Car employees keep their eyes on a car, humorously underscoring an attitude of putting cars ahead of Karina. The campaign will run across TV, YouTube and other digital platforms, as well as K Car’s app and website. To mark the launch, K Car said it will run a promotion through March 31 called “Super Week” with total benefits of 5 billion won, offering discounts, free delivery and free quality-warranty coverage to reduce customers’ purchase burden. The promotion includes: a “Weekly Special Price” discount of up to 5 million won; a nationwide free-delivery “Home Service Time Deal”; a “KW6 Free Special” offering warranty repair benefits of up to 10 million won; and a “KW3 Free Special” offering warranty repair benefits of up to 5 million won. K Car CEO Jeong In-guk said the campaign was designed to help consumers easily relate to the idea that K Car is a company where people who value and love cars come together. “Based on uncompromising expertise, we will work to repay customer trust,” he said. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-03-03 15:42:17
  • LIG Nex1 Opens Large-Scale Hiring for First Half of 2026
    LIG Nex1 Opens Large-Scale Hiring for First Half of 2026 LIG Nex1 said Tuesday it will conduct a large-scale open recruitment drive for the first half of 2026. Applications opened Tuesday and will be accepted through March 18 via the company’s recruitment website. Openings include missile systems, electronic warfare, radar, maritime, unmanned and robotics, electro-optical and information convergence, satellites and AI, the company said. The hiring will cover a range of roles, including R&D positions in hardware, software and mechanical engineering, as well as domestic and overseas business management, quality management and corporate support. The company expects to hire at least a three-digit number of employees. Detailed job descriptions by field are available in the “Recruiting Book” on the recruitment website. Candidates who pass an online AI competency assessment and document screening will move to a software coding test (for software roles), followed by job-specific interviews and then a leadership interview before final selection. With public interest rising in South Korea’s defense industry, LIG Nex1 said it will also hold campus recruiting at 31 universities nationwide. The company said about 60% of its workforce is engaged in R&D. As of February, it had 5,748 employees, up 1,204 over two years, a 26% increase, and was named a “Top Job-Creating Company” by the Labor Ministry for a third consecutive year. A company official said the large-scale hiring is aimed at strengthening competitiveness across the rapidly advancing defense industry and encouraged interest from talent expected to lead future growth businesses. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-03-03 13:27:16