Hyundai Motor Appoints Michael Kleine to Lead Washington, D.C. Office

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• Hyundai Motor Group appoints senior diplomat and 2024 Presidential Rank Award recipient Michael Kleine as Head of its Washington, D.C. Office
• Kleine will advance U.S. government engagement and oversee all public policy, strategic advisory and government affairs activities

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• #Kia
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• #Washington
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• #Michael Kleine

SEOUL/WASHINGTON, D.C., August 3, 2026 - Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) today announced the appointment of Michael Kleine as Head of Hyundai Motor Group Washington, D.C. Office.

In this role, effective immediately, Kleine will lead the Group's engagement with U.S. federal government stakeholders and oversee all public policy, strategic advisory and government affairs activities across the U.S.

The appointment underscores the Group's commitment to strengthening its partnerships with the U.S. government as the Group expands its investment in American manufacturing, technology innovation, and the broader automotive ecosystem.

Michael's appointment reflects our deep commitment to the U.S. and our vision to strengthen ties between Hyundai Motor Group and U.S. institutions and stakeholders. His distinguished career and proven track record in navigating complex trade and policy matters make him an invaluable addition to our team as we continue to expand our footprint in America.

Kleine brings more than 25 years of distinguished diplomatic experience to the Group. Throughout his career with the U.S. Department of State, he held senior leadership positions across five key markets in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond:

• Indonesia - Served as Chargé d'Affaires, ad interim at the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta.
• South Korea - Held the position of Minister Counselor for Economic Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, where he supported the conclusion and ratification of the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS).
• Australia, Laos and Vietnam - Managed economic and diplomatic initiatives.

Additionally, Kleine served as Senior Advisor for Korea and Japan Trade Policy at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), where he shaped critical trade policy decisions affecting the region.

In recognition of his exceptional public service, Kleine received the prestigious Presidential Rank Award for Meritorious Service in 2024. This honor reflects his distinguished contributions to U.S. foreign service and diplomatic excellence.

Prior to his diplomatic career, Mr. Kleine practiced law in Washington, D.C. His educational credentials include:

• Juris Doctor from Duke University School of Law
• Master of Science in National Security Strategy from the National War College

His combined expertise in law, trade policy, and international relations positions him uniquely to advance the Group's strategic interests and strengthen stakeholder relationships in Washington.

Dain Kangdi@hyundai.comGlobal PR Team 1 · Hyundai Motor Company

Disclaimer: Hyundai Motor Group believes the information contained herein to be accurate at the time of release. However, the company may upload new or updated information if required and assumes that it is not liable for the accuracy of any information interpreted and used by the reader.

About Hyundai Motor Group

Hyundai Motor Group is a global enterprise that has created a value chain based on mobility, steel, and construction, as well as logistics, finance, IT, and service. With about 250,000 employees worldwide, the Group's mobility brands include Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis. Armed with creative thinking, cooperative communication and the will to take on any challenges, we strive to create a better future for all.

More information about Hyundai Motor Group can be found at: http://www.hyundaimotorgroup.com or Newsroom: Media Hub by Hyundai, Kia Global Newsroom, Genesis Newsroom