Where is Kia Made?

2025 Kia K4

If you’re considering a new Kia for your Raleigh garage, you may be curious: What country is Kia from? And where is Kia made? The Kia headquarters are in Seoul, South Korea, but there are also assembly plants across the globe. Many Durham drivers know Kia as an auto manufacturer that continually produces sleek, high-quality, and affordable vehicles, but may not know quite as much about Kia history. Read on to learn more about where Kia is from as well as the brand’s extensive history with Hendrick Kia of Cary!

What Country is Kia From?

So, where is Kia from? The auto company originated in South Korea and is headquartered in Seoul. In 1973, Kia opened its first integrated automotive assembly plant and created automobiles largely for the South Korean market. At the time of this writing, Kia is the second largest automobile manufacturer in South Korea behind its parent company, Hyundai. 

A Brief Kia History

Did you know Kia didn’t start in the auto industry? The brand first began by manufacturing steel pipes and bicycle parts by hand. Once the company made a name for itself in the steel business, it started manufacturing complete bikes in 1951. A year later, the name “Kia” was born. Kia eventually began to produce motorcycles and later moved to commercial vehicles in 1962. That was the true beginning of the Kia Motors we know today!

It wasn’t until 1992 that Kia dealerships began to open in the United States, with the first models being sold in dealerships in Portland, Oregon. Kia continued to grow over time and began producing popular cars that you know and love, like the Soul and the Sportage!

Where is Kia Made Now? 

In 1992, Kia was introduced to the North American market and, ever since then, the company has been spreading across the globe. Today, Kia owns design and manufacturing facilities worldwide to help distribute to the international market. Kia assembly plants can be found in places, such as: 

  • South Korea
  • China
  • India
  • Mexico
  • Pakistan
  • Slovakia
  • United States
  • Uzbekistan
  • Vietnam

Become a Part of Kia History at Hendrick Kia of Cary

Now that you know the answers to crucial questions such as, “Where is Kia from?” and “What country is Kia from originally?” you’re ready to experience a piece of Kia history at Hendrick Kia of Cary! Contact us online or by phone at 833-756-7614 to set up a test drive at our Cary dealership, and our team will help you find and finance the Kia that’s right for your Apex lifestyle.

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