Seong Kim, the head of external relations at Hyundai Motor Company, is set to speak at the prominent global forum, the 2025 Raisina Dialogue, in New Delhi, India, from March 17 to 19. Known for his deep understanding of both the U.S. and South Korean markets, Kim is expected to provide valuable insights on global supply chain issues and economic policies amidst ongoing international trade tensions.
According to the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), the Raisina Dialogue will gather government officials, business leaders, and scholars from around the world to discuss key economic and political challenges facing the international community. The forum, established by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to enhance India’s role in global affairs and strengthen multilateralism, is co-hosted by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs and ORF. It is recognized as one of the most influential meetings in the global political and economic landscape.
This year’s forum will focus on six main themes: “Politics Interrupted,” “Resolving the Green Trilemma,” “Digital Planet,” “Militant Mercantilism,” “The Tiger’s Tale,” and “Investing in Peace.” Kim is expected to share his views on “global supply chains” and “currency addiction,” particularly in the context of international trade and the ongoing trade wars. He may also address the impacts of U.S. policies such as the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), semiconductor supply chain restructuring, and electric vehicle tax incentives on the global automotive industry.
Having previously served as a senior diplomat in the Trump and Biden administrations, including roles as the U.S. Special Envoy for North Korea and U.S. Ambassador to South Korea, Kim has been leading Hyundai’s global strategy and response to U.S. trade policies since his appointment as head of external relations at Hyundai Motor Group late last year. With discussions around a potential return of former President Trump, Hyundai is focusing on refining its external strategies, particularly given Trump’s history of implementing protectionist measures against South Korean automobiles.
In February, Kim visited the U.S. alongside a business delegation led by SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won, meeting with senior officials from various economic departments, including the Treasury. This visit aimed to explore collaboration opportunities to strengthen Hyundai’s position in the global market. Additionally, Kim is committed to ongoing discussions about expanding investments in electric vehicle manufacturing and battery supply chains within the U.S., further solidifying Hyundai’s presence in the North American market.
As global economic dynamics evolve, Kim’s participation in the Raisina Dialogue is anticipated to shed light on the future of international trade, particularly in the context of U.S.-Korea relations and the broader implications for the automotive industry.
