Oh geez, things could get more expensive for Korean automakers. Hyundai, Genesis, and Kia face a new 25% on South Korean cars. This comes as all automakers have been adjusting to rising costs as drivers see price tags sky rocket. 

Trump hits Korean Automakers with more tariffs 

I feel like tariffs might be the word of 2025. Seriously, this word has been used a billion times. But at the moment, the term is mostly being felt by Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis. 

President Donald Trump is raising tariffs on various South Korean goods, including cars, trucks, and SUVs. Trump shares, “South Korea’s Legislature is not living up to its Deal with the United States.” 

He continues, “Because the Korean Legislature hasn’t enacted our Historic Trade Agreement, which is their prerogative, I am hereby increasing South Korean TARIFFS on Autos, Lumber, Pharma, and all over Reciprocal TARIFFS, from 15% to 25%.” 

Luckily, the most popular models like the Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, and Genesis GV70 are produced in America. There are massive plants in Alabama in Georgia as the automaker gives back to the communities with donations and education opportunities. 

According to Inside EVs, other affordable options like the Tucson Hybrid and Kia Carnival are imported from South Korea. But the final nail isn’t in the coffin, yet. 

Trump could strike a deal or determine the framework for one. There’s always a chance that he could backpedal. But at the moment, it looks like Hyundai is going to see increasing costs. 

So far, the popular thing to do has been to pass those costs onto buyers. Sometimes in hidden ways. For example, the Ford F-150 delivery fee increased from $1,995 to $2,595 in 2025. Plus, there’s a $695 destination fee.