The Hyundai Motor Group founding family has been recognized with the Automotive News Centennial Award, a prestigious honor celebrating individuals and families who have shaped the global automotive industry over the last century.
This recognition places Hyundai alongside some of the most influential names in the industry, including Toyota’s Toyoda family, General Motors CEO Mary Barra, Stellantis Chairman John Elkann, and Ford Motor Chairman Bill Ford.
A Legacy Built Across Three Generations
The award acknowledges the remarkable leadership and vision of three generations of the Hyundai family:
- Chung Ju-yung (Founder) – Starting Hyundai in the aftermath of the Korean War, Chung Ju-yung built more than just a company. He laid the foundation for what would become one of South Korea’s largest conglomerates. His determination and foresight transformed Hyundai into a key player in rebuilding South Korea’s economy, leading the nation from post-war struggles to industrial strength.
- Chung Mong-koo (Honorary Chairman) – Building on his father’s foundation, Chung Mong-koo focused on quality improvement and international expansion. Under his leadership, Hyundai entered global markets with renewed credibility, earning recognition as a world-class automaker. His emphasis on reliability and durability helped Hyundai compete against established brands worldwide.
- Euisun Chung (Executive Chairman, 2020–present) – Representing the new generation, Euisun Chung has redefined Hyundai’s image in a rapidly changing industry. By prioritizing innovation, electrification, and sustainable mobility, he has elevated Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis into premium global brands. His leadership reflects a strong focus on design, technology, and environmental responsibility, ensuring the group remains competitive in the future of mobility.
Recognition Beyond Automaking
The Automotive News Centennial Award highlights not only Hyundai’s growth as a global automotive leader but also its role in transforming South Korea into an industrial powerhouse. From manufacturing to mobility solutions, the group’s influence reaches far beyond vehicles, shaping economies and communities around the world.
Hyundai’s success also underscores the importance of family-led leadership in creating long-term impact. Each generation of the Chung family has added a new dimension to Hyundai’s identity: resilience, global expansion, and innovation.
Hyundai’s Future Outlook
Looking ahead, Hyundai is doubling down on electric vehicles (EVs), hydrogen technology, and smart manufacturing. The company is investing heavily in research and development, positioning itself as a frontrunner in sustainable mobility solutions.
Automotive News credited Hyundai’s ongoing transformation to its ability to anticipate industry shifts while maintaining the vision set forth by its founders. By aligning tradition with innovation, Hyundai stands as a model for how legacy companies can thrive in a fast-changing world.
A Symbol of National Pride
For South Korea, Hyundai is more than just an automaker—it represents resilience, progress, and global ambition. The Centennial Award solidifies the Hyundai family’s status as pioneers who not only built cars but also played a defining role in the nation’s rise on the global stage.
