Kia Automotive History

The story of Kia is one of innovation, resilience, and global growth. Today, Kia is known for stylish vehicles, advanced technology, and strong reliability, but the company’s journey began long before it became a global automotive leader. Understanding the automotive history answers common questions, such as who owns Kia and where the cars are made. Keep reading to learn more!

Who Owns Kia?

Kia started in 1944 as Kyungsung Precision Industry. A small manufacturing company designed to build bicycle parts, Kyungsung Precision Industry grew quickly, adding facilities and new products to its portfolio. In 1952, the company was renamed Kia Industries, and it began shifting its production away from bicycles and toward the burgeoning automotive industry.

After several years of experimentation and collaboration with other manufacturers, Kia unveiled its first passenger car, the Kia Brisa, in 1973. Kia continued expanding its automotive lineup with pickup trucks and sedans before introducing an independently designed passenger car, the Kia Sephia, in 1992. Then, in 1998, Hyundai and Kia merged, starting a partnership that continues to bring new, innovative models to the Sunnyvale streets to this day. 

Where Are Kia Vehicles Made?

While Kia has its headquarters in Seoul, South Korea, Kia models are made in several countries to satisfy global demand. San Jose drivers can find Kia manufacturing plants in countries such as: 

• China 
• Mexico
• India
• Slovakia

In addition, Kia has a manufacturing plant here in the United States. At the Kia manufacturing plant in West Point, Georgia, more than 350,000 vehicles are produced each year, including popular models such as the Kia Telluride, Kia Sorento, and Kia Sportage. 

Kia Logo History

It should come as no surprise that such a long-running company also has a colorful history of graphic design. While the Kia logo has changed several times since the company’s inception, the 2021 change that ditched the popular red oval design made significant waves, even outside of the automotive industry. That said, the new, minimalistic Kia branding draws on the many years of Kia logo history before it, combining the manufacturer’s ethos of movement and innovation. 

Find Your New Kia At Capitol Kia

Learning who owns Kia helps Santa Clara drivers appreciate the brand’s long journey from a small Korean manufacturer to one of the world’s most respected automakers. Take a new or pre-owned Kia model for a test drive in San Jose, or virtually, today! We can’t wait to see you, wherever you are coming from.