Hyundai Motor PH welcomes Byung Goo Ko as its new president

Hyundai Motor Philippines (HMPH) has announced a change of leadership as it announces the appointment of Byung Goo Ko as its new president, replacing Jiho Son who has been the company’s top executive since October 2024.

Byung Goo Ko has over two decades of experience with the Hyundai Motor Company, previously serving as Team Leader of the India & Middle East Business Team. He formally took on his new position as head of HMPH on July 27, 2026.

Jiho Son was HMPH president for nearly two years, and under his leadership strengthened the brand’s local presence with the inauguration of new dealerships, as well as achieved significant improvements in its Global Dealership Space Identity (GDSI).

At the same time, familiar nameplates also returned to the local Hyundai lineup, such as the Kona and Elantra, while the heavily updated Creta, new-generation Palisade, along with the new Ioniq 9, refreshed Ioniq 5, and most recently the updated Staria, were all launched in our market.

“We gladly welcome Mr. Ko to Hyundai Motor Philippines. He is a seasoned figure in the automotive industry with extensive experience across all business operations. With him at the helm, HMPH looks forward to building on its momentum and pursuing new opportunities in the years ahead,” said HMPH Managing Director Cecil Capacete.

_{This article was originally published on July 25, 2026 and has been updated with additional information on July 28, 2026.}