In August 2025, South Korea’s five main automakers saw a 5% increase in domestic sales to 111,523 units. Hyundai and Kia contributed to the growth with new products, despite overall sluggish demand due to high household debt and weak sentiment. South Korea’s GDP expanded by 0.6% in Q2.

For the first eight months of 2025, the country’s five main automakers reported a 2.5% increase in domestic sales to 910,878 units. Hyundai and Kia saw sales rise, while GM Korea and KG Mobility struggled. Renault Korea had the best performance with a 156% surge in domestic sales.

Global sales by South Korea’s top automakers slightly increased by less than 1% in the first eight months of 2025. Hyundai Motor’s global sales in August rose by 0.4% to 336,395 vehicles, with a total of 2,738,841 vehicles sold in the first eight months. Domestic and overseas sales both saw growth.

Kia’s global sales increased slightly in August to 253,950 vehicles. The company aims for a 4% increase in global sales in 2025, supported by new models and strong demand for core SUVs. Domestic sales in August rose by 7.4%. The company plans to introduce new models and increase its EV lineup.

GM Korea’s global sales rose by 35% in August but were 2% lower in the first eight months of 2025. The company’s Trailblazer SUV and Trax crossover are top-selling models. Domestic sales plunged by 25% in August, while exports surged by almost 42%.

KG Mobility reported a 9% increase in global sales in August. The company plans to expand its zero-emissions vehicle range and has entered a partnership with China’s Chery Automobile Company. KGM aims to introduce eight new models by 2030, focusing on new energy vehicle technologies.

Renault Korea saw a 24% decrease in global sales in August. Domestic sales surged threefold, driven by new models, while exports dropped significantly. The company recently restructured its assembly plant and plans to introduce a model based on the Geely Polestar 4.

In summary, South Korea’s domestic vehicle market showed growth in August 2025, driven by new products from major automakers. Hyundai and Kia performed well, while GM Korea and KG Mobility faced challenges. Global sales saw a slight increase, with a focus on expanding EV lineups and introducing new models.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: domestic vehicle market up 5% in August