Kia is one of the most recognized car manufacturers in the world. But many people still wonder who owns Kia and how the brand fits into the global auto industry. This article explores Kia’s history, ownership, shareholders, and brands in detail.
History of Kia
Kia was founded in 1944 in South Korea. It started as Kyungsung Precision Industry, producing bicycle parts and steel tubing.
In 1952, the company changed its name to Kia Industries and began making motorcycles and trucks. By the 1970s, it had entered the car manufacturing business.
The 1990s were challenging for Kia. After filing for bankruptcy during the Asian financial crisis in 1997, Kia was acquired by a fellow South Korean automaker, Hyundai Motor Company.
Since then, Kia has transformed into a global brand, producing stylish, reliable, and innovative vehicles.
Who Owns Kia: Top Shareholders
Kia Corporation is publicly traded but is part of the Hyundai Motor Group. Hyundai Motor Company is the largest shareholder of Kia. Though Kia operates as an independent brand, it is considered a key part of Hyundai’s global strategy.
Hyundai Motor Group is one of the world’s largest car manufacturers. It includes Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis brands. Kia plays a major role in research and development, electric vehicle innovation, and global expansion.
Here’s a breakdown of the major shareholders of Kia:
| Institutional Shareholder | Percentage of Shares | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Motor Company | 34.88% | Largest shareholder, part of Hyundai Motor Group. Plays a central role in Kia’s strategic decisions. |
| National Pension Service of Korea | 6.71% | South Korea’s largest institutional investor, provides stability and plays a role in governance. |
| The Vanguard Group, Inc. | 2.47% | Global investment management firm, signals confidence in Kia’s growth and market position. |
| BlackRock, Inc. | 2.35% | Leading global asset management firm, focuses on long-term growth and corporate governance. |
| JP Morgan Asset Management | 1.60% | Major financial institution, seeks long-term growth, and engages on governance matters. |
| Norges Bank Investment Management | 1.12% | Norway’s sovereign wealth fund, invests for long-term growth and stability. |
| Samsung Asset Management Company, Ltd. | 1.07% | South Korean institutional investor, interested in both local and international growth. |
| Dimensional Fund Advisors LP | 0.81% | Global investment firm focusing on value and quantitative strategies. |
| Other Institutional Investors | 2.80% | Includes smaller asset management firms, insurance companies, and private equity funds. |
| Kia Corporation Employee Stock Ownership Association | 2.47% | Employees’ association, offering ownership to foster a sense of engagement and alignment with the company. |
Hyundai Motor Company
Hyundai Motor Company, as the largest institutional shareholder, holds around 34.88% of Kia’s shares. This major stake allows Hyundai to exert considerable influence over Kia’s strategic decisions. Hyundai’s investment in Kia is rooted in the deep, intertwined relationship between the two companies, both of which are part of the Hyundai Motor Group. Hyundai and Kia share research and development resources, manufacturing capabilities, and have aligned goals for electric vehicle (EV) innovation and global market expansion.
Hyundai’s significant stake in Kia ensures that both companies work in tandem on various initiatives, including vehicle platforms, electric vehicles, and autonomous driving technology. The close ownership structure enables streamlined decision-making, fostering synergies between the brands.
National Pension Service of Korea
The National Pension Service of Korea holds around 6.71% of Kia’s shares. As South Korea’s largest institutional investor, this government-managed fund plays a vital role in the country’s capital markets. The National Pension Service’s investment in Kia highlights its confidence in the long-term growth prospects of the company.
The pension service’s stake is largely passive but influential in corporate governance. As an institutional investor, it participates in shareholder meetings and can impact major decisions, such as executive appointments, mergers, or strategic directions. The fund’s ownership ensures that Kia remains aligned with South Korea’s economic policies and capital market stability.
The Vanguard Group, Inc.
The Vanguard Group, a global leader in investment management, holds 2.47% of Kia’s shares. Vanguard’s stake reflects its strategy of investing in high-growth companies with strong financial fundamentals. As a prominent player in global asset management, Vanguard’s involvement signals significant confidence in Kia’s business model, particularly in its efforts to expand its electric vehicle lineup and adapt to shifting consumer preferences.
Vanguard’s influence, while not direct, is substantial due to its position as a major institutional investor. Vanguard typically seeks to influence companies through shareholder activism, especially in matters related to corporate governance, sustainability, and long-term financial performance.
BlackRock, Inc.
BlackRock, another global investment management firm, holds around 2.35% of Kia’s shares. As the world’s largest asset manager, BlackRock’s involvement in Kia underscores its belief in the company’s potential to grow in the global automotive market. BlackRock’s investment strategy typically focuses on large-cap stocks with solid fundamentals and growth prospects.
BlackRock often participates in shareholder meetings and may engage with Kia’s management on matters of corporate governance, shareholder value, and sustainable business practices. Its stake in Kia is part of a broader portfolio that includes other major global automakers and technology companies.
JP Morgan Asset Management
JP Morgan Asset Management, with a stake of 1.60%, is a key institutional investor in Kia. JP Morgan’s investment in Kia reflects its belief in the company’s innovative direction, especially in the areas of electric vehicles and autonomous driving technologies. As a prominent financial institution, JP Morgan actively manages its investments to ensure they align with long-term growth and profitability.
JP Morgan Asset Management typically exercises its shareholder rights to influence corporate governance decisions, ensuring that the companies it invests in adhere to strong financial and operational standards. Their involvement ensures that Kia remains competitive on the global stage.
Norges Bank Investment Management
Norges Bank Investment Management, which manages Norway’s sovereign wealth fund, holds 1.12% of Kia’s shares. Norges Bank is one of the largest sovereign wealth funds in the world, and its investment in Kia represents a significant long-term bet on the company’s future growth. The fund’s strategy focuses on investing in well-established companies with strong market positions, and Kia fits this profile.
Norges Bank’s role in Kia’s shareholder base is largely passive, but its substantial financial resources give it influence over the company’s governance. As a long-term investor, Norges Bank looks for companies that can generate consistent returns while adhering to sustainable business practices.
Samsung Asset Management Company, Ltd.
Samsung Asset Management Company, a subsidiary of Samsung Group, holds around 1.07% of Kia’s shares. This reflects the interest of South Korean institutional investors in Kia’s performance and growth. Samsung Asset Management is known for its focus on both local and international investments, making Kia a key component of its diversified portfolio.
While Samsung Asset Management does not exert direct control over Kia’s day-to-day operations, it influences corporate governance decisions, particularly those related to South Korean market dynamics and regional economic policies.
Dimensional Fund Advisors LP
Dimensional Fund Advisors LP, a global investment management firm, owns approximately 0.81% of Kia’s shares. Dimensional’s investment strategy focuses on value and quantitative strategies, which seek to identify undervalued or high-potential companies. The firm’s stake in Kia reflects its belief in the company’s growth prospects and long-term financial viability.
Dimensional Fund Advisors typically adopts a hands-off approach but may engage with Kia’s management on corporate governance issues, ensuring that the company adheres to sound financial and operational practices.
Other Institutional Investors
There are also several smaller institutional investors that collectively hold around 2.80% of Kia’s shares. These investors include various asset management firms, insurance companies, and private equity funds. Their influence, while not as pronounced as that of the larger shareholders, still contributes to Kia’s governance and financial health.
These institutional investors play a critical role in supporting the liquidity and stability of Kia’s stock, helping the company maintain access to capital markets and supporting long-term growth strategies.
Public Shareholders
A portion of Kia’s shares, approximately 52.96%, is held by public and institutional investors, both domestically and internationally. These shareholders include various mutual funds, retail investors, and other institutional entities. While these investors have voting rights and some influence on corporate decisions, they do not have the direct control that the larger stakeholders, like Hyundai and the National Pension Service, possess. However, this broad shareholder base plays a vital role in providing liquidity and supporting Kia’s financial health.
Who is the CEO of Kia?
As of 2025, Song Ho-sung serves as the President and CEO of Kia Corporation. He has been instrumental in steering the company through a transformative phase, emphasizing electrification, global expansion, and innovation. Under his leadership, Kia has solidified its position as a key player in the global automotive industry.
Leadership and Strategic Vision
Song Ho-sung’s tenure has been marked by a strategic focus on electric vehicles (EVs), sustainability, and expanding Kia’s global footprint. He has overseen significant investments in EV technology and infrastructure, aligning with Kia’s commitment to a greener future. His leadership was pivotal in the announcement to produce hybrid vehicles at Hyundai’s new U.S. factory, reflecting a responsive approach to market demands and geopolitical considerations.
Previous CEOs of Kia
Before Song Ho-sung, Kia’s leadership included:
- Lee Hyoung-keun: Served as CEO from 2011 to 2015, overseeing the company’s growth in emerging markets and strengthening its global presence.
- Kim Jong-hyun: Served as CEO from 2019 to 2023, focusing on global market expansion and enhancing brand perception.
- Han Woo Park: Held the CEO position from 2015 to 2019, leading Kia through a period of significant product development and technological advancements.
Role of the CEO in Kia’s Control
As the CEO of Kia Corporation, Song Ho-sung plays a central role in leading the company and executing its strategic vision. The CEO is responsible for overseeing daily operations, managing top-level executives, and ensuring that Kia aligns with its business goals, especially in the face of global competition and rapid technological advancements in the automotive sector.
Reporting Structure and Authority
The CEO reports to the Board of Directors, which is made up of both internal and external members, including major stakeholders like Hyundai Motor Company and other institutional investors. Kia’s reporting structure ensures that strategic decisions are subject to oversight from this Board. This level of governance helps balance the leadership’s vision with the interests of Kia’s shareholders.
The CEO is tasked with implementing strategies set by the Board, managing Kia’s finances, and ensuring that the company adapts to emerging trends, such as the shift to electric vehicles (EVs) and sustainable mobility solutions.
Control by Hyundai Motor Company
The most significant influence over Kia’s strategic direction comes from Hyundai Motor Company, which owns around 34.88% of Kia’s shares. Hyundai’s substantial stake provides it with significant control over decision-making, including the selection of key executives, particularly the CEO.
Hyundai and Kia share resources and collaborate on product development, research, and production, allowing Hyundai to indirectly control many aspects of Kia’s operations. Given their close relationship under the Hyundai Motor Group umbrella, Hyundai’s leadership plays a key role in guiding Kia’s long-term strategy, ensuring the companies’ goals are aligned.
Hyundai’s influence ensures that Kia remains integrated within the broader group, benefiting from shared R&D, technology platforms, and manufacturing capabilities, all while maintaining operational autonomy in certain areas.
Institutional Investors and Their Influence
Other institutional investors collectively own around 51.03% of Kia’s shares. These shareholders, including global asset management firms such as The Vanguard Group, BlackRock, and JP Morgan Asset Management, have significant influence over the company’s decisions, particularly in matters related to corporate governance and financial performance.
While these institutional investors do not have day-to-day control over Kia’s operations, their stakes ensure they can influence important decisions, including the appointment of executives and any strategic shifts. Their primary focus is on ensuring long-term growth and profitability, and they play a key role in holding the company accountable through voting rights at shareholder meetings.
Board of Directors’ Role
The Board of Directors is a critical governing body that plays an essential role in controlling Kia’s direction. The Board is made up of representatives from major shareholders, including Hyundai Motor Company, as well as independent members. The Board oversees corporate governance, approves strategic plans, and monitors executive performance, ensuring that Kia remains accountable to its stakeholders.
The Board’s role in corporate control is vital because it ensures that Kia adheres to its strategic objectives, addresses risks, and maintains financial health. The CEO is directly accountable to the Board, providing regular updates on performance and key developments. Ultimately, it is the Board that approves or vetoes significant decisions, such as mergers, acquisitions, and changes to the company’s leadership.
Annual Revenue and Net Worth of Kia
In 2024, Kia Corporation achieved a record-breaking annual revenue of ₩107.45 trillion (approximately $75.16 billion), marking a 7.7% increase from the previous year. This milestone was driven by strong demand for high-margin models, including SUVs and hybrid vehicles, as well as favorable exchange rates. Notably, Kia’s operating profit reached ₩12.67 trillion (around $8.85 billion), with an operating profit margin of 11.8%, the highest in the company’s history.
As of early 2025, Kia’s net worth is estimated to be approximately ₩60 trillion (about $41.5 billion). This valuation reflects the company’s strong financial performance, robust brand equity, and strategic investments in electric vehicle technology. Kia’s commitment to innovation and sustainability positions it well for continued growth in the global automotive market.
Below is an overview of Kia’s annual revenue and net worth from 2015-24:
| Year | Revenue (₩ Trillions) | Revenue (USD Billions) | Net Worth (₩ Trillions) | Net Worth (USD Billions) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 107.45 | 75.16 | 60.00 | 41.50 |
| 2023 | 99.85 | 69.20 | 58.20 | 40.30 |
| 2022 | 96.62 | 67.10 | 55.50 | 38.20 |
| 2021 | 80.87 | 56.20 | 50.70 | 35.10 |
| 2020 | 63.14 | 43.50 | 46.50 | 32.00 |
| 2019 | 59.21 | 41.20 | 45.30 | 31.40 |
| 2018 | 59.43 | 41.30 | 44.10 | 30.50 |
| 2017 | 54.76 | 38.50 | 42.20 | 29.00 |
| 2016 | 47.45 | 33.10 | 40.00 | 27.60 |
| 2015 | 45.59 | 32.00 | 38.20 | 26.30 |
Brands Owned by Kia
As of 2025, Kia Corporation has a diverse portfolio of brands that span beyond the automotive industry. Kia’s focus on innovation and sustainability has led to various partnerships and acquisitions, helping the brand maintain a competitive edge globally.
Below are the major brands owned by Kia Corporation:
| Brand | Description | Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Kia Motors | The flagship brand of the company, focusing on producing affordable and innovative vehicles. | Affordable vehicles, design, technology, and innovation |
| Kia EV (Electric Vehicles) | Kia’s division focused on electric vehicles, including popular models like the Kia EV6 and Kia Niro EV. | Electric mobility, sustainable vehicles, innovation |
| Kia Motors Finance | A financial services division offering car loans, leases, and financial products to consumers and dealerships. | Car financing, leases, dealership support |
| Kia Mobility | Focused on alternative mobility solutions such as car-sharing and subscription services. | Car-sharing, vehicle subscriptions, flexible mobility |
| Kia Accessories and Parts | Provides genuine parts and accessories for Kia vehicles to enhance customer experience. | Vehicle parts, accessories, maintenance products |
| Kia Connected Services | A suite of connectivity services that includes in-car tech, remote diagnostics, and personalized driver experiences. | Connectivity, remote diagnostics, smart driving tech |
| Kia Design Center | The division responsible for designing the vehicles, focusing on aesthetics, functionality, and innovation. | Vehicle design, user experience, vehicle styling |
| Kia Parts and Service Solutions | A global network offering service solutions and maintenance parts for Kia vehicles. | Vehicle servicing, parts solutions, after-sales services |
| Kia Innovation and Technology Labs | Focuses on developing cutting-edge automotive technologies like AI, autonomous driving, and sustainable innovations. | AI, autonomous vehicles, sustainable technology |
| Kia Performance Division | Enhances performance features and participates in motorsport, including events like the FIA World Rally Championship. | Performance vehicles, motorsport, high-performance engineering |
| Kia Global Marketing and Sponsorships | Manages global marketing campaigns and sponsorships for high-profile events like the FIFA World Cup and Australian Open. | Marketing, global brand recognition, sponsorships |
Kia Motors
The flagship brand itself, Kia Motors, is a well-established global brand specializing in affordable, fuel-efficient, and innovative vehicles. Kia Motors is recognized for its focus on design, reliability, and technology. In recent years, the company has expanded its lineup to include electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid models, with a keen focus on sustainability. Kia’s vehicles are sold worldwide, and the company has cemented its reputation for producing a wide range of cars, SUVs, and crossovers.
Kia EV (Electric Vehicles)
Kia’s EV division is part of the company’s aggressive push into the electric vehicle market. The Kia EV brand focuses on sustainable, all-electric mobility. With the global shift toward EVs, Kia has invested significantly in developing its EV lineup. Notable models include:
- Kia EV6: A highly successful all-electric crossover, the EV6 has received numerous accolades for its design, range, and technology. It’s part of Kia’s broader strategy to build a diverse range of fully electric vehicles.
- Kia Niro EV: Another important model in the electric lineup, the Niro EV offers a versatile crossover experience with all-electric capabilities.
The Kia EV brand is pivotal in the company’s goal to become a leader in green mobility and transition to a carbon-neutral future.
Kia Motors Finance
Kia Motors Finance offers financial products and services to consumers and dealerships, ensuring access to car loans, leases, and other financial solutions. This division supports Kia’s business by facilitating vehicle sales and expanding customer reach through tailored financial options.
Kia Mobility
Kia Mobility is the company’s initiative in the expanding field of mobility services. This brand focuses on alternative mobility solutions, including car-sharing and subscription-based models, to cater to evolving consumer preferences. Kia Mobility aims to provide a wide range of flexible, user-centric solutions, from short-term vehicle rentals to long-term vehicle subscriptions.
Kia Mobility supports the company’s vision of being a leader in the global transition towards more sustainable and flexible transportation options.
Kia Accessories and Parts
Kia operates an extensive range of accessories and parts for its vehicles under the Kia Genuine Parts and Kia Accessories brands. These products are specifically designed to complement the company’s cars and are sold through Kia’s global dealer network. The accessories range from basic upgrades (like floor mats and roof racks) to advanced tech additions (such as infotainment system enhancements and safety features).
This brand plays a crucial role in enhancing customer satisfaction and driving long-term revenue by offering additional products that maintain the longevity and performance of Kia vehicles.
Kia Connected Services
As part of its broader technological strategy, Kia Connected Services is a suite of offerings that include in-car connectivity, remote diagnostics, and personalized driver experiences. This service integrates with Kia’s vehicles to provide enhanced infotainment, navigation, and safety features, contributing to the evolving trend of smart, connected cars. Kia Connected Services aims to deliver greater convenience and a more engaging driving experience for customers worldwide.
Kia Design Center
The Kia Design Center is a critical part of Kia’s brand identity, focusing on vehicle styling and user experience. This division is tasked with creating visually appealing, functional, and innovative vehicle designs that meet the evolving needs of global customers. The Design Center is instrumental in the creation of Kia’s iconic vehicles, such as the Kia Stinger, Kia Telluride, and the Kia Soul.
Kia Parts and Service Solutions
Kia also operates a global network that provides service and parts solutions under the Kia Parts and Kia Service brands. This division ensures that Kia owners can access genuine parts, accessories, and maintenance services, thereby enhancing the overall customer ownership experience. The brand ensures that Kia vehicles remain well-maintained and up-to-date, extending their lifespan and reliability.
Kia Innovation and Technology Labs
The Kia Innovation and Technology Labs focus on developing cutting-edge technologies for the automotive sector, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence (AI), autonomous driving, and sustainable technologies. This brand is dedicated to helping Kia lead the charge in the next generation of automotive solutions, with a keen emphasis on improving the driving experience and reducing the environmental impact of its products.
Kia Performance Division
Kia Performance is the division responsible for enhancing the performance capabilities of Kia vehicles, particularly in motorsport and performance-oriented consumer models. The performance division works on fine-tuning engineering, performance models like the Kia Stinger GT, and taking part in various racing events, such as the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC).
Kia’s involvement in motorsport not only enhances its brand image but also showcases its engineering prowess and commitment to high-performance vehicles.
Kia Global Marketing and Sponsorships
Kia has built a strong global brand presence through Kia Global Marketing and Sponsorships. This brand is responsible for promoting Kia’s image worldwide through high-profile sponsorships and marketing campaigns. Kia is known for its sponsorship of major sports events, such as the Australian Open and the FIFA World Cup. By associating with these global events, Kia elevates its brand recognition and connects with diverse audiences around the world.
Final Words
Kia is owned largely by Hyundai Motor Company and operates as a key brand within the Hyundai Motor Group. While it has its own identity, design philosophy, and strategy, its operations are closely tied to Hyundai. With strong leadership, rising electric vehicle sales, and global presence, Kia is a major force in the automotive industry.
FAQs
Who is the parent company of Kia?
Hyundai Motor Company is the parent company and largest shareholder of Kia.
Is Kia independently operated?
Kia has independent operations but shares key resources and strategies with Hyundai Motor Group.
When did Hyundai buy Kia?
Hyundai acquired a controlling stake in Kia in 1998, after the Asian financial crisis.
Is Kia a luxury brand?
Kia is not a luxury brand. However, it offers premium vehicles and features under models like the Kia K900 and EV9.
Does Kia make its own engines?
Yes, Kia designs and manufactures many of its own engines but shares some technology and platforms with Hyundai.
Does Ford still own Kia?
No, Ford does not own Kia. Kia is a South Korean automaker, and it is owned primarily by Hyundai Motor Company, which holds a majority stake in the company.
Is Kia Chinese or Japanese?
Kia is neither Chinese nor Japanese; it is a South Korean brand. It is part of the Hyundai Motor Group, headquartered in Seoul, South Korea.
Who bought over Kia?
Kia was not bought over by a single entity. However, Hyundai Motor Company acquired a significant stake in Kia in the late 1990s during Kia’s financial troubles. Today, Hyundai is Kia’s largest shareholder.
Which is better, Hyundai or Kia?
The answer depends on individual preferences and needs. Both Hyundai and Kia are part of the same parent company, Hyundai Motor Group, and share many platforms, technology, and resources. Typically, Hyundai tends to focus on mainstream and premium vehicles, while Kia has a more youthful, design-forward identity. Both brands offer high-quality vehicles, but Kia tends to emphasize modern design and sportier features, while Hyundai is known for a more diverse lineup of models.
What is the full form of Kia?
The full form of Kia is “Korean International Automotive.” The name Kia originates from the Korean words “Ki” (to rise) and “A” (Asia), meaning “rising out of Asia.”
Is a Kia better than a Ford?
Whether a Kia is better than a Ford depends on the specific model and customer preferences. Kia generally offers vehicles with a higher standard of equipment at a similar price point, often with longer warranties. Ford, on the other hand, has a strong reputation in trucks and SUVs. Both brands have their strengths, and the decision comes down to factors like vehicle type, features, and personal preference.
Where are Kia and Hyundai made?
Kia and Hyundai vehicles are produced at manufacturing plants located globally. Both companies have factories in South Korea, as well as plants in countries like India, the United States, China, Slovakia, Turkey, and Mexico.
Who owns Kia SUV?
Kia SUVs are owned by individual customers who purchase them. The Kia brand, as a whole, is owned by Hyundai Motor Company, but the ownership of individual vehicles, including SUVs like the Kia Sportage and Kia Telluride, belongs to their respective buyers.
Who manufactures Kia?
Kia vehicles are manufactured by Kia Corporation, which operates under the larger umbrella of Hyundai Motor Group. Hyundai and Kia share platforms, technology, and manufacturing resources.
Who owns Kia brand?
The Kia brand is primarily owned by Hyundai Motor Company, which is the largest shareholder. Kia operates as a subsidiary of Hyundai but maintains its own identity in the automotive industry.
Who owns Performance Kia?
Performance Kia, which is a dealership or retail network, is typically owned by independent entrepreneurs or family-owned businesses. However, the parent company, Kia Corporation, controls the brand’s overall strategy, product offerings, and marketing.
Who owns Kia car company?
The Kia car company is owned by Hyundai Motor Company, which holds a significant stake. Kia operates as an independent subsidiary but benefits from Hyundai’s resources and strategic direction.
Is Hyundai owned by Kia?
No, Hyundai is not owned by Kia. However, Kia is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company, which holds the majority of Kia’s shares. Both companies are part of the Hyundai Motor Group and share technological resources and manufacturing capabilities.
Who makes Kia vehicles?
Kia cars and vehicles are made by Kia Corporation, which is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company. The company designs, manufactures, and markets a wide range of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and electric vehicles, under the Kia brand.