Looking to continue its global growth, the Korean SME is diversifying its portfolio with innovative and cost-effective solutions.
By Daniel de Bomford and Quentin Lange
At the heart of every smooth ride lies world-class manufacturing, where technical expertise and innovation converge to create the indispensable machines that power society. For companies to compete globally, efficiency, cost effectiveness, and agility are paramount to success. Kwang Myung (KMIN), founded in 1985, is a specialist manufacturer of automotive seat frames, supplying some of the world’s most ubiquitous automakers. President and Vice Chairman Byung Gun Lim says that the company has built on its foundation as a manufacturer of molds and jigs, and has developed unmatched expertise and outstanding capabilities. “Over time, this solid foundation allowed us to create our own proprietary technologies, which in turn enabled our seat frames to achieve a quality level unmatched by competitors,” he explains. After moving to an entirely in-house product design, the company has developed significant cost competitiveness and quality advantages. By partnering with domestic auto giants in Korea, the company built trust within the global industry and opened the doors to the international market. Now, KMIN has two factories in Korea, one in Mexico and one in the United States.
The company’s strength also lies in its jig and mold technologies. It can design and develop the components in-house with its highly refined production process, which reduces lead times and improves productivity. The company has also introduced robotics, data analytics, and AI into its production lines to elevate quality and efficiency further. “By continuously investing in advanced equipment and smart manufacturing solutions, we stay ahead of competitors and remain agile in meeting the evolving needs of global customers,” Lim explains. With the automotive industry constantly searching for outstanding cost efficiency, companies are choosing KMIN. Lim concludes, “I am confident that KMIN delivers the highest value in terms of cost competitiveness among global SMEs.”
Byung Gun Lim, President and Vice Chairman
KMIN is focused on strengthening three key pillars: technology development, product quality, and cost competitiveness. Lim explains, “We are taking a phased approach—refining our technologies, enhancing quality and optimizing costs.” He describes the process as careful and deliberate, grounded in lessons learned from past experiences. “With the solid foundation we have built over the past several decades, we are confident that we will achieve both revenue growth and successful entry into new industrial sectors,” Lim says.
The global shift to EVs has opened new avenues for innovation, and the company is actively developing new frames for the next generation of automobiles. With industry demands for lighter vehicles, KMIN is developing new solutions such as Belt-in-Seat designs, multi-material seatbacks and alternative materials, such as carbon-reinforced plastic. The company is also developing new comfort features for premium vehicles in its Relaxation Seat Frame, which includes lumbar support and leg rest tilting. “We are embracing this rapid pace of innovation, and are confident that it will bring many growth opportunities,” Lim states.
With an ambitious forecast of KRW 750 billion by 2027, KMIN has established itself as a global leader and plans to continue its international expansion, especially in the United States. Lim says that as a proud Korean SME, the company will continue to deliver the highest quality products. “Through these efforts, we are not only elevating KMIN’s global standing but also helping to further strengthen the reputation of Korean manufacturing on the world stage.”
For more details, explore the website at: https://www.kmin.co.kr/?lang=en
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