Hyundai Motor Group has once again secured its place in automotive history, as Executive Chair Euisun Chung, along with his father Mong-Koo Chung and grandfather Ju-yung Chung, has been recognized with the Automotive News Centennial Award for their outstanding contributions to global mobility.
The honor, part of Automotive News’ 100th anniversary celebrations, recognizes individuals and families whose vision and leadership have left an indelible mark on the automotive industry. The award will be presented at the Automotive News Congress in Detroit on September 11, 2025, where Euisun Chung will also join a keynote discussion with KC Crain, President and CEO of Crain Communications.
Founded on the bold vision of Ju-yung Chung, Hyundai began as a symbol of Korea’s determination to industrialize and modernize. His philosophy that “nothing is impossible” propelled Hyundai into becoming a key driver of Korea’s economic rise.
His son, Mong-Koo Chung, expanded this legacy, steering Hyundai and Kia into global recognition. Under his leadership, the Group strengthened its reputation for quality, safety, and value, transforming the brands into household names worldwide.
Today, Euisun Chung builds upon these foundations with a renewed focus on technology, sustainability, and customer-centric innovation. Since becoming Executive Chair in 2020, he has guided Hyundai Motor Group into the ranks of the world’s top three automakers, elevating Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis into leaders of next-generation mobility.
Euisun Chung’s leadership is defined by his belief that “innovation must serve humanity.” Under his tenure, Hyundai Motor Group has invested heavily in:
- Electrification – with models like the Hyundai IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6, Kia EV9, and Kia EV3, each earning global acclaim.
- Hydrogen fuel cell technology – advancing sustainable energy solutions beyond vehicles.
- Autonomous driving and robotics – redefining how people and goods move.
- Advanced air mobility and software-defined vehicles – creating a blueprint for future transportation.
This bold strategy has translated into remarkable success, with Hyundai and Kia securing 12 World Car Awards in recent years, including four consecutive World Car of the Year titles.
Chung’s forward-thinking vision has earned him accolades beyond the Centennial Award, including MotorTrend’s “Person of the Year” (2023) and Newsweek’s “Visionary of the Year” (2022). His influence is also shaping the cultural DNA of the Group, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment across its global workforce.
KC Crain, Publisher of Automotive News, summarized the family’s impact: “For three generations, the Chung family has shaped the global automotive industry through vision, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Guided by Euisun Chung’s purpose of ‘Progress for Humanity,’ Hyundai is not only leading in technology and style, but also driving innovation that improves lives.”
The Centennial Award not only honors the Chungs’ remarkable past but also their ongoing mission to redefine global mobility. With Euisun Chung at the helm, Hyundai Motor Group is positioned to continue its evolution into a sustainable, customer-focused, and future-ready mobility powerhouse—a legacy built on resilience, vision, and innovation across three generations.
