Seoul: Hyundai Motor Co. and Kia Corp. have launched a new public-private consultative body designed to foster future mobility cooperation. The initiative, known as the Next Urban Mobility Alliance (NUMA), aims to address transportation challenges in collaboration with government agencies, businesses, and research institutions.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the launch ceremony for NUMA was held at the Grand Walkerhill Seoul hotel, and it was attended by notable figures including Second Vice Minister of Land and Transport Kang Hee-up and Song Chang-hyeon, head of Hyundai's autonomous vehicle platform division. Representatives from other public-private partners were also present at the event, which follows Hyundai and Kia's announcement of the initiative in March.
The alliance was established based on a shared understanding that challenges like regional mobility gaps and the needs of socially disadvantaged groups require joint solutions combining corporate innovation, government policy, and academic expertise. As of now, 31 public and private organizations have joined the initiative, including the transport ministry, Gyeonggi Province, KT Corp., CJ Logistics Co., Naver Cloud, Seoul National University, and Yonsei University.
Hyundai and Kia are set to lead the initiative, supporting cooperation and project development among partners. The government plans to introduce new policies, such as a basic mobility law, to ensure universal access to transportation and strengthen the nation's future mobility industry.
Kang emphasized the collaborative effort between the government and private sector to create a society where everyone can move freely and safely. He noted that transportation has evolved beyond infrastructure to become an essential service connecting people's daily lives.
Song highlighted the role of Hyundai and Kia as organizers and partners, stating that they will work towards inclusive mobility rights for vulnerable groups through technology. The goal is to create a global mobility transition that connects cities worldwide.