If you’re considering a new Kia for your Warner Robins-area garage, you may be curious: What country is Kia from? And where is Kia made? The Kia headquarters are in Seoul, South Korea, but there are also assembly plants across the globe. Many Byron drivers know Kia as an auto manufacturer that continually produces sleek, high-quality, and affordable vehicles, but may not know quite as much about Kia history. Read on to learn more about where Kia is from, which models are assembled in the US, and about the brand’s extensive history with Hutchinson Kia of Macon!
What Country is Kia From?
So, where is Kia from? The auto company originated in South Korea and is headquartered in Seoul. In 1973, Kia opened its first integrated automotive assembly plant and created automobiles largely for the South Korean market. At the time of this writing, Kia is the second-largest automobile manufacturer in South Korea behind its parent company, Hyundai.
A Brief Kia History
Did you know Kia didn’t start in the auto industry? The brand first began by manufacturing steel pipes and bicycle parts by hand. Once the company made a name for itself in the steel business, it started manufacturing complete bikes in 1951. A year later, the name “Kia” was born. Kia eventually began to produce motorcycles and later moved to commercial vehicles in 1962. That was the true beginning of the Kia Motors we know today!
It wasn’t until 1992 that Kia dealerships began to open in the United States, with the first models being sold in dealerships in Portland, Oregon. Kia continued to grow over time and began producing popular cars that you know and love, like the Telluride and the Sportage!
Where is Kia Made Now?
In 1992, Kia was introduced to the North American market and, ever since then, the company has been spreading across the globe. Today, Kia owns design and manufacturing facilities worldwide to help distribute to the international market. Kia assembly plants can be found in places, such as:
- South Korea
- China
- India
- Mexico
- Pakistan
- Slovakia
- United States
- Uzbekistan
- Vietnam
Which Kia Models Are Made in the USA?
Kia operates two major facilities in Georgia—one in West Point and another in Savannah—where several popular models are built with precision and care. These American-assembled Kia models include:
- Kia EV6
- Kia EV9
- Kia Sorento
- Kia Sportage (fifth-generation)
- Kia Telluride (first-generation)
Kia’s state-of-the-art facility in West Point, Georgia, is the hub for several of the brand’s top models, supporting thousands of jobs and contributing significantly to the local and national economy.
Standouts from this U.S.-built lineup include the Kia Telluride, widely praised for its family-friendly design, innovative safety features, and strong performance. Built exclusively in Georgia, the Telluride continues to be a favorite among families and critics alike. Other American-assembled models like the Sportage, Sorento, and EV9 offer versatility, comfort, and cutting-edge tech. You can learn more about which Kia models are made in the US and more with the 2025 Cars.com American-Made Index.
Become a Part of Kia History at Hutchinson Kia of Macon
Now that you know the answers to crucial questions such as, “Where is Kia from?” and “What Kia models are made in the USA?” you’re ready to experience a piece of Kia history at Hutchinson Kia of Macon! Contact us online or by phone at 478-310-6130 to set up a test drive at our Macon dealership, and our team will help you find and finance the Kia that’s right for your lifestyle around Perry.
