Kia Marks 80 Years with Ceremony and Exhibition Celebrating Its Heritage and Vision
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, December 8, 2025 – Kia Corporation marked its 80th anniversary with a commemorative ceremony and the opening of an immersive heritage exhibition at Kia Vision Square in Yongin, Korea. The milestone event highlighted the brand’s evolution from a small manufacturer into a global mobility leader and showcased Kia’s future direction in sustainable transportation.
The ceremony was attended by Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung, Kia President & CEO Ho Sung Song, and senior executives, alongside 400 guests. In his remarks, Euisun Chung described Kia’s journey as “an epic narrative,” expressing gratitude to everyone who contributed to its eight-decade success. Ho Sung Song reaffirmed the brand’s commitment to preserving its heritage and channeling its founding spirit of determination into future innovation.
As part of the celebration, Kia unveiled the Vision Meta Turismo concept car—a bold showcase of Kia’s next generation of mobility design. The concept blends dynamic performance with a lounge-inspired interior, reinterpreting three core experiences: performance driving, immersive digital interaction, and spacious comfort. Its exterior follows Kia’s design philosophy, “Opposites United,” while the interior integrates advanced digital technologies for drivers and passengers. A standout feature is the next-generation steering wheel with three AR-powered modes—Speedster, Dreamer, and Gamer—enhancing the driving experience through augmented reality head-up displays.
During the ceremony, guests enjoyed a celebratory film honoring Kia’s achievements and a special performance by global violinist and Kia Ambassador Clara-Jumi Kang.
The newly launched 80th Anniversary Exhibition, under the theme “The Legacy of Movement,” brings Kia’s heritage to life across eight dedicated display zones. Exhibits range from early innovations such as the 3000-Liho bicycle and the K-360 three-wheeler to modern icons like the Kia Sportage, EV6 GT, Telluride, and the all-new PV5 purpose-built vehicle. The exhibition also includes the Movement Archive, presenting 100 models that reflect Kia’s identity and evolution. The exhibition will remain open to the public until 2029.
Kia’s history dates back to 1944 when it was founded as Kyungsung Precision Industry. The company adopted the Kia name in 1952 and later introduced best-selling models such as the Brisa, Pride, and Sportage. In 1997, Kia joined Hyundai Motor Group, setting the stage for its global transformation. In 2021, Kia unveiled its “Total Transformation” strategy, accelerating its shift to electric mobility, platforms beyond vehicles (PBVs), and software-driven innovation.
To honor its heritage globally, Kia launched creative campaigns including a collaboration with artist Oyow, an 80-year commemorative publication, a four-episode heritage video series, and the online Movement Archive platform—linking the brand’s past, present, and future.
