Kia Shares New Vision on 80th Anniversary
"Another Great Journey Toward the Centennial"
Unveils Future Concept Car 'Vision Metatourismo'
On the occasion of its 80th anniversary, Kia reflected on its past journey and shared a new vision for future mobility. From its beginnings with bicycles in 1944, through three-wheeled vehicles, to electric vehicles and purpose-built vehicles (PBVs), Kia's growth story encapsulates the history of transportation and mobility in Korea.
Chung Euisun, Chairman of Hyundai Motor Group, stated at the 'Kia 80th Anniversary Celebration' held at Kia Vision Square in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province on December 5, "Kia's 80 years have been a remarkable journey, like an epic narrative. On behalf of Hyundai Motor Group, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has been part of this journey over the past 80 years."
He continued, "Kia is a truly unique company in the history of Korean industry. Founder Kim Chulho not only started with bicycles but also established the first comprehensive automobile factory after producing motorcycles and three-wheeled vehicles, and ultimately achieved the localization of engines, laying the foundation for Korea's mobility."
He added, "Honorary Chairman Chung Mongkoo always emphasized quality and the global field. I recall a time during an inspection of the Zilina plant in Slovakia when he drove me around the factory in a Ceed that had not yet been inspected, personally highlighting the importance of quality and on-site presence."
Chairman Chung said, "Kia's 80 years have not been easy. The company overcame every adversity with its unique resilience. Founder Chung Ju-yung valued Kia's distinctive and unparalleled spirit so highly that he inscribed 'Long Live the Kia Spirit' on the new millennium monument at the Hwaseong plant. This spirit has evolved into the innovative DNA that defines Kia today."
He went on to say, "Thinking about the future that Kia will create fills me with excitement. Let us embrace the heritage of the past 80 years and embark on another great journey toward the centennial."
The event was attended by Chairman Chung, Kia President Song Ho-sung, former and current executives and employees, National Assembly Deputy Speaker Lee Hakyoung, National Assembly member Kim Namhee, Gwangju Mayor Kang Gijung, and about 400 other guests. On this day, Kia unveiled its company history book 'Kia 80 Years' and, to mark the new era of mobility, also introduced for the first time its future concept car, the 'Vision Metatourismo,' which presents the brand's direction and firm vision.
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