Chinese electric-vehicle manufacturers are beginning to establish a foothold in South Korea, one of the world’s most competitive automotive markets, as consumers gradually warm to technology-focused alternatives to domestic brands.
Geely Holding Group’s premium EV brand, Zeekr, said reservations for its new 7X midsize electric SUV surpassed 1,000 within one month of launch, offering one of the clearest signs yet that Chinese automakers are slowly gaining traction in the country.
The milestone comes only months after Zeekr entered the South Korean market as the second major Chinese passenger-car brand following BYD. While the market remains firmly dominated by Hyundai Motor and Kia, Chinese manufacturers are pursuing a long-term strategy centered on competitive pricing, advanced technology and premium features rather than rapid market-share gains.
Reservations for the 7X opened on June 5 through nine retail outlets across South Korea. The SUV is offered in three trims priced between approximately $39,000 and $51,000, placing it directly in competition with premium electric SUVs from Korean and international automakers.
The company’s highest-end Ultra model has attracted the strongest demand, followed by the Max and Pro trims. The flagship version delivers 645 horsepower from dual electric motors, accelerates from zero to 100 kilometers per hour in 3.9 seconds and offers an estimated driving range of 273 miles under South Korea’s certification standards.
Industry analysts say South Korea remains one of the most difficult overseas markets for Chinese carmakers because of strong consumer loyalty to domestic brands and well-established sales and after-sales service networks. Even so, recent launches by BYD and Zeekr suggest Chinese manufacturers are beginning to chip away at those barriers as they seek credibility in developed markets.
Zeekr plans to expand its retail network to 14 locations by the end of the year while increasing its service network to 11 centers. The investment reflects growing confidence that Chinese EV brands can gradually build a sustainable presence in South Korea despite intense competition.
For China’s automakers, success in South Korea carries importance beyond sales. Winning customers in one of Asia’s most demanding automotive markets would strengthen their global reputation and reinforce their competitiveness as they continue expanding across North America, Europe and other developed economies.
