Hyundai chief named best automotive CEO in Asia

Hyundai Motor chairman Chung Mong-koo was selected as Asia’s best automobile industry leader by the U.S.-based publication Automotive News on Wednesday.



In this year’s list of auto industry “All-Stars,” Automotive News selected Chung as the top CEO among Asian firms for his part in increasing Hyundai Motor’s presence in the global market.



He grabbed the top post for the second consecutive year, beating chief executives of Japanese carmakers.



The list names top CEOs and executives from the automotive industries of Asia, Europe and North America.



For North America, Automotive News picked Chrysler’s Sergio Marchionne, and Volkswagen chairman Martin Winterkorn for Europe.



Automotive News said that chairman Chung transformed Hyundai Motor and its affiliate Kia Motors into a powerhouse. The U.S. publication also cited Hyundai’s drive to improve product quality, design and technology.



Additionally, the Hyundai Motor brand was included on the best list for the premium luxury segment thanks to vehicles like the Equus sedan.



The automaker’s Sonata sedan has been gaining popularity among customers, it said.



In his recent instructions to his staff, chairman Chung stressed that holding high-end technologies is more crucial than any other factors in becoming a truly competitive carmaker.

By Kim Yon-se (kys@heraldcorp.com)