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Kia Motors Corporation appoints new President

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Khatir Soltani
Press release
Source: Kia Motors

Kia Motors Corporation has appointed a new President to continue the leadership of one of the world’s fastest-growing automakers.

With more than 30 years experience within the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group, Hyoung-Keun (Hank) Lee takes over the position from his previous role as Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the International Business Division at Group headquarters in Seoul.


Lee brings a wealth of international experience to his new role and will lead Kia’s corporate planning, marketing and overseas business operations. Prior to heading Kia’s International Business Division, he served as President of Kia Motors Europe and President and CEO of Dongfeng Yueda Kia, the company’s joint venture in China.

Kia Motors Corporation is confident he is well suited to continue Kia’s remarkable growth based on his extensive experience in the automotive industry, having worked within the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group since 1977.

As Vice-President and COO, Lee developed effective countermeasures in response to high oil prices and international economic fluctuations. He also contributed to securing Kia’s presence in overseas markets by expanding the supply of high-demand models to further satisfy customer experiences and strengthen dealer networks.

Lee takes over the position from Eui-Sun Chung who was recently appointed Vice Chairman of Hyundai Motor. During his tenure as President of Kia Motors, the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group grew to be one of the world’s top five automakers.

Kia Motors posted record first-half profits in 2009 and sales of Kia vehicles continue to outpace competitors as it gains market share in many countries around the world.

Michael Cole, Managing Director of Kia Motors (UK) Limited said: “Hank knows the UK and European markets well and I am confident this is a positive development that will maintain the progress we have made with the brand in recent years. With five all-new Kia models due to come to the market in the next two years his steady and knowledgeable hand on the tiller will be very welcome as the world emerges form economic turmoil.”

photo:Kia Motors
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
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