Seoul: The founding family of Hyundai Motor Group has been celebrated by the U.S. publication Automotive News, receiving its Centennial Award for significant contributions to the global automotive industry, announced the group on Monday.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the prestigious award was jointly presented to the late founder Chung Ju-yung, Honorary Chairman Chung Mong-koo, and Euisun Chung, the group's current executive chair. The award recognizes individuals and families who have significantly shaped the global auto industry over the past century through vision, innovation, and leadership.

The Hyundai founding family joins other notable recipients such as the Toyoda family from Toyota Motor, Stellantis Chairman John Elkann, General Motors CEO Mary Barra, and Ford Motor Chairman Bill Ford.

Automotive News, in a special feature, highlighted the legacy of Hyundai Motor Group's leadership across three generations. The publication acknowledged the group's role in transforming South Korea from the aftermath of the Korean War into a global manufacturing and automotive leader.

The article noted that the late founder Chung Ju-yung established a vast conglomerate under the Hyundai name, while Honorary Chairman Chung Mong-koo enhanced quality and expanded the group's international presence, establishing it as a world-class entity.

Moreover, Automotive News emphasized that Euisun Chung, upon becoming the executive chair in 2020, inherited a legacy of vision, determination, and innovation from his predecessors. The publication noted his efforts to elevate the Hyundai Motor, Kia, and Genesis brands, fostering more sophisticated and innovative brand images to enhance their value.