The new Kumho Tire Hampyeong plant is set to begin operations in 2028, strengthening global competitiveness and regional growth.
Kumho’s New Plant Expected to Create More Jobs in the Region
Kumho Tire has announced the plan to build a new plant in Hampyeong as it works to overcome the impact of the fire that occurred in May 2025. The new plant is expected to have an annual production capacity of 5.3 million tyres by 2027 and begin full-scale operations in 2028.
Kumho said that it has signed an investment agreement with South Jeolla Province and Hampyeoung County in South Korea for the construction of the new plant. The signing ceremony, held on December 9, 2025, at the South Jeolla Province Office, was attended by Governor Kim Young-rok, Hampyeong County Mayor Lee Sang-ik, Kumho Tire CEO Jeong Il-taek, and Lim Wan-ju, head of the Management Planning Division.
Under the agreement, South Jeolla Province and Hampyeong County agreed to provide full administrative support to ensure the success of Kumho Tire‘s plant construction.
“Kumho Tire’s new Hampyeong plant will become a key production base for future automotive components that will drive innovation in the manufacturing industry in Jeollanam-do. We will spare no effort in supporting the company’s successful establishment and growth,” said Governor Kim.
Meanwhile, Mayor Lee said, “We will provide unwavering support, including assistance with permits and improvements to working and living conditions, to ensure the smooth construction and operation of the new Hampyeong plant. We will maintain close communication with Kumho Tire and create a win-win model in which the company and the region grow together.”
On May 17, 2025, a fire destroyed Kumho Tire‘s plant in Gwangju and, since then, the company has been working to recover from the damage while proactively providing compensation to affected locals. One of the efforts to recover from the damage is by building the new plant in Hampyeong.
“The construction of the new Hampyeong plant is a strategic investment that will enable Kumho Tire to lead the future mobility market and marks a critical turning point in further strengthening our global competitiveness. Going forward, we will continue to contribute to job creation and the revitalisation of the local economy, centred on the new Hampyeong plant, and further solidify our value as a trusted brand,” Kumho Tire CEO, Jeong Il-taek, explained.
The first phase of the new Hampyeong plant will involve an investment of KRW 660.9 billion (around GBP 338 million). Aside from an annual production capacity of 5.3 million tyres, the plant is also expected to be able to produce 7 million units of refined rubber. The plant, according to Kumho‘s official statement, will be equipped with smart manufacturing facilities and environmentally friendly processes as part of the company’s transition toward a future-oriented production system.
Kumho expects the new facility in Hampyeong to play a “key role” in strengthening its mid- to long-term global competitiveness by enhancing production efficiency and quality competitiveness, as well as establishing a foundation for sustainable growth. In addition, it is expected to contribute “substantially” to regional economic revitalisation and job creation.
Meanwhile, Hampyeong County expects the Bitgreen Industrial Complex in Hampyeong to develop into a hub anchored by the future Kumho plant. It also hopes for the creation of a “Jeonnam-style green digital city”, which includes the development of a “residential, educational, and cultural complex” for employees and their families from Kumho Tire and other companies.
Aside from constructing a new plant in Hampyeong, Kumho Tire will also build its first-ever European plant in Opole, Poland. Following investment approval and licensing procedures, the plant is scheduled to begin operations in August 2028, with an annual production capacity of 6 million tyres.
