"Leading Global Automotive Progress
Proving Their Strengths"

The leaders of Hyundai Motor Company and Kia have been recognized for their leadership and innovation in the global automotive industry.


On August 25, Hyundai Motor Company and Kia announced that Yang Heewon, President of Hyundai Motor Company and Kia R&D Headquarters, and Randy Parker, CEO of Hyundai Motor North America Division, were selected for the "2025 Automotive News All-Stars" by the U.S. automotive media outlet Automotive News.


Yang Heewon President, Hyundai Motor Company and Kia R&D Headquarters. Hyundai Motor Company

Yang Heewon President, Hyundai Motor Company and Kia R&D Headquarters. Hyundai Motor Company

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President Yang was chosen as the winner in the "Product Development" category, highly praised for elevating R&D capabilities while leading vehicle development for decades. He spearheaded the development of next-generation integrated platforms, which improved lineup responsiveness and productivity for Hyundai Motor Company and Kia, and made significant contributions to securing a competitive edge in electrified models such as EVs. Thanks to these achievements, he was also awarded the Silver Tower Order of Industrial Service Merit by the Korea Automobile Manufacturers Association last year.


President Yang stated, "This honor reflects the capabilities and dedication of the entire Hyundai Motor Company and Kia R&D Headquarters," and added, "We will do our best to provide customers with high-performance vehicles and lead innovation in the automotive industry."


CEO Randy Parker was recognized in the "Global Automaker U.S. Executive" category for strengthening the brand's position in electrification and sustainable mobility while leading Hyundai Motor Company and Genesis operations in North America. Under his leadership, Hyundai Motor America achieved record-high retail sales for four consecutive years and established itself as one of the fastest-growing mainstream automakers in the United States.


Randy Parker, CEO of Hyundai Motor North America Division. Hyundai Motor Company

Randy Parker, CEO of Hyundai Motor North America Division. Hyundai Motor Company

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CEO Parker joined Hyundai Motor Company in 2019 after working at General Motors (GM) and Nissan. After joining, he served as head of sales for Hyundai Motor America, was appointed CEO of Hyundai Motor America in August 2022, and became Head of the North America Division in December last year.


CEO Parker said, "This award demonstrates the strengths of the Hyundai Motor Company and Genesis brands," and added, "We will continue striving to provide customers with innovative and sustainable mobility solutions."



Meanwhile, Hyundai Motor Group's founder Chung Ju-yung, Honorary Chairman Chung Mong-koo, and Chairman Chung Euisun were previously selected as recipients of the Automotive News "Centennial Award," which is given to individuals who have made a significant impact on the global automotive industry through innovation and leadership.


This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.

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