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KIA

50 entries

South Korean manufacturer founded in 1944 as a bicycle parts maker, now the country's second-largest carmaker after Hyundai.

Founded: May 1944, as Kyungsung Precision Industry
Headquarters: Seoul, South Korea
Parent: Hyundai Motor Company, its largest shareholder
Name: Kia Corporation since January 2021

Kia began in May 1944 as Kyungsung Precision Industry, making steel tubing and bicycle parts, and built South Korea's first domestic bicycle in 1951. It took the name Kia Industries in 1952 and opened its first integrated assembly plant in 1973.

Kia declared bankruptcy in 1997 during the Asian financial crisis, and Hyundai Motor Company acquired 51% in 1998, forming Hyundai Motor Group. Since January 2021 the company has traded as Kia Corporation.

1944Founded as Kyungsung Precision Industry
1951First domestic bicycle, the Samchuly
1973First integrated assembly plant opened
1998Hyundai Motor Company takes a 51% stake
2021Company renamed Kia Corporation