Hyundai Motor Group’s founding chairman Chung Ju-yung, honorary chairman Chung Mong-koo, and current chairman Chung Euisun have been named recipients of the Automotive News Centennial Award, recognizing their multigenerational impact on the global auto industry.
The U.S.-based automotive publication, which celebrates its 100th anniversary this year, announced the honor on August 18. Since its founding in 1925, Automotive News has become one of the most influential industry outlets worldwide, with regional editions in Europe and China as well as a strong online presence.
Alongside the announcement, the magazine published a special feature titled “Euisun Chung Builds on Family Legacy to Propel Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis to New Heights.” The article noted that when Euisun Chung became chairman in 2020, “he inherited not just the leadership of a global automaker, but also the ambitious vision, resilience, and spirit of innovation forged by his grandfather and father over decades.”
The outlet credited Chung with steering Hyundai away from its past role as a “fast follower” and turning it into a global leader in design, quality, and technology. Under his leadership, Hyundai has expanded into electric vehicles, motorsports, and advanced safety, while branching out into robotics and advanced air mobility.
Automotive News also underscored the broader legacy of the Chung family. Chung Ju-yung was recognized for building Hyundai into a diversified conglomerate spanning shipbuilding to semiconductors, laying the foundation for Korea’s rise as a manufacturing powerhouse after the Korean War. Chung Mong-koo was honored for strengthening product quality, expanding into global markets, and leading the acquisition of Kia, which consolidated Hyundai Motor Group’s status as a world-class automaker.
Euisun Chung, the third-generation leader, has been credited with modernizing the company’s corporate culture, introducing global talent—including foreign executives—and launching bold initiatives such as the Genesis luxury brand. He has also championed software-defined vehicles, artificial intelligence, robotics, and future mobility solutions.
Chung will personally accept the award in September during the Automotive News Congress in Detroit, where he is scheduled to join a fireside chat with publisher K.C. Crain.
Reflecting on the honor, Chung highlighted his predecessors’ philosophies: “My grandfather believed the customer defines our future, and that conviction remains at the heart of Hyundai Motor Group today. My father pursued growth opportunities on a global scale, and his commitment to quality, safety, and R&D continues to guide us.”
Other recipients of the Centennial Award include Akio Toyoda of Toyota, John Elkann of Stellantis, Mary Barra of General Motors, and Bill Ford of Ford Motor Company. Designers tied to Hyundai’s history—such as Giorgetto Giugiaro, who created the original Pony; Luc Donckerwolke, the group’s Chief Creative Officer; and Peter Schreyer, former president and brand ambassador—were also recognized.
