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Hyundai Motor Group announced a major investment plan totaling 125.2 trillion won ($86.47 billion) in South Korea from 2026 to 2030, a significant increase from the 89.1 trillion won invested between 2021 and 2025. The announcement came shortly after Seoul finalized a new trade deal with the United States that reduces tariffs on South Korean automobiles from 25% to 15%.
The updated tariff agreement has raised concerns about potential declines in auto exports and domestic production. Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Euisun Chung acknowledged these challenges during a meeting with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and other business leaders, which took place two days after the trade deal details were made public. Chung emphasized the company’s commitment to strengthening its global competitiveness despite higher U.S. tariff rates.
According to Chung, Hyundai plans to diversify its export destinations, boost shipments from its Korean factories, and more than double its electric vehicle exports by 2030 through the expansion of new EV production facilities. He also highlighted the company's intention to support auto parts manufacturers that may be affected by tariffs imposed under U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration.
Of the planned domestic investment, Hyundai Motor Group will allocate 50.5 trillion won ($35 billion) toward artificial intelligence and future-growth industries, reinforcing the company’s long-term innovation strategy. Another 38.5 trillion won will go toward research and development, underscoring Hyundai’s focus on next-generation mobility technologies. Additionally, 36.2 trillion won is reserved for upgrading production facilities and constructing a new skyscraper, further enhancing the group’s infrastructure and operational efficiency.
As South Korea commits $350 billion to U.S. strategic sectors under the trade deal, Hyundai’s expanded investment signals the automaker’s determination to adapt to evolving global trade conditions while safeguarding its domestic manufacturing base.
