HKC continues to prove its reliability and competitiveness in manufacturing automotive parts, from safety components such as seatbelts to battery components for next-generation EVs.
Every automotive part must be backed by a level of quality that drivers and passengers can trust to protect them on their journeys. To become the suppliers of choice, manufacturers must maintain incredible quality standards while remaining agile and innovative to meet new challenges. Hankook Capability Corporation (HKC) began manufacturing as an electronic component producer and quickly established itself as the world standard for automotive part manufacturing. In 1986, it entered the seatbelt industry, and its most pivotal moment was being approached by a European Tier One automotive safety systems supplier, which launched HKC’s international expansion efforts. CEO Sung-Man Kim says that through the partnership, word quickly spread about its manufacturing expertise, which led to export opportunities. Today, the company manufactures automotive safety components such as channels, latches, tongues, rearview mirrors and battery BMA parts, shipping over 200 million parts to 25 countries annually.
Sung-Man Kim, CEO, HanKook Capability Co., Ltd.
“Our competitive edge in international markets comes from two key factors: cost efficiency and superior quality management,” Kim explains. Initially, it stood out to foreign car makers with its highly competitive pricing. Its exceptional quality management strengthened those partnerships, making it the sole supplier for several global automakers. Kim says that when discussing seatbelts, automakers immediately recognize HKC, and a key reason is its ability to meet the industry's rigorous standards. “Our ability to understand, meet, and exceed these international requirements is a core strength,” he states.
In 2024, the company opened a manufacturing plant in Mexico, focusing on overmolding for batteries. The demand for EVs continues to grow and synergizes with its automotive safety capabilities. Leveraging its extensive technological capabilities and management expertise, HKC’s entry into the battery market aligns well with its strengths, particularly mass production. The company has been awarded Supplier Quality (SQ) certifications by global Korean OEMs in 5 key sectors: metal stamping, heat treatment, over-molding, welding and surface treatment. In 2018, the Korean Government recognized it as a “Root Company,” which are fundamental manufacturing firms specializing in core techniques like casting, molding, welding, plastic processing, surface treatment and heat treatment.
HKC is also investing in advanced manufacturing techniques that integrate AI. Its production lines utilize deep learning for visual inspections, and the company's goal is to incorporate AI into its real-time monitoring (POP) to trigger proactive alerts. The company is also working to implement the Manufacturing Information System (MIS) to further optimize efficiency.
The company aims to continue expanding into Thailand, Vietnam, or possibly Europe. “Our company started by serving global markets, and over the years, we have developed a deep understanding of cultural differences across various countries,” Kim says. He refuses to let the company rest on its laurels and continues pushing it into new markets and industries. While HKC is known for seatbelts, he emphasizes that this is not the destination. “I want HKC to be a company that represents Korea and contributes significantly to the global industry.”
For more details, explore the website at: https://www.hkcb.co.kr/
This article has been featured on Newsweek.com
0 COMMENTS