Geely’s Zeekr Plans Debut For South Korean Market In 2026

Geely Automobile Holdings, one of China’s largest automakers, is set to enter into the South Korean electric vehicle (EV) market with its premium brand Zeekr. Notably, the brand recently went public in the United States (U.S.)

In detail, Zeekr plans to introduce its first premium EV to South Korea as early as 2026, challenging the long-standing dominance of local automakers Hyundai and Kia according to Bloomberg. The company also aims to establish a presence in South Korea by opening showrooms in Seoul and the surrounding Gyeonggi province by the end of 2025. 

In regards to Zeekr’s plans, they are not yet finalized. Although the Zeekr 001 is likely to be the inaugural model in South Korea. This EV model delivers an estimated range of up to 620 km (385 miles) on a single charge, showcasing its long-range specs.

Interestingly, BYD is also aiming to enter the South Korean market with its plans being finalized to have three EVs in place: BYD Dolphin, BYD Atto 3, and BYD Seal. With European Union imposing new tariffs on Chinese EVs and the U.S. maintaining a 100% tariff rate, Chinese automakers are exploring alternative markets for growth with South Korea in mind.

Read More: BYD Set To Enter South Korean Passenger EV Market

Nonetheless, Geely and other Chinese automakers will need to navigate South Korea’s new subsidy rules, which favor EVs with higher recycled metal content. As a result, this policy potentially disadvantages Chinese automakers who commonly utilize LFP batteries.

Yet, Geely is not entirely new to the South Korean market as it acquired a 34% stake in Renault’s Korean unit back in 2022. Furthermore, the Polestar 4, an electric crossover from Geely-controlled Volvo AB, is aimed for production at Renault Korea’s Busan plant starting in the second half of 2025. Moreover, Geely has also forged strategic partnerships with South Korean companies ,especially SK Group for the exploration of green mobility initiatives including EV battery development, improving charging infrastructure, and advancing automotive electronics.

As Geely prepares to enter the South Korean market with considerations of producing EVs there for export, the EV industry will watch closely on its next move as the competition increases in the global EV market as well.

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