Chinese EVs Advance in South Korea

Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers are expanding their presence in South Korea by offering affordable options. Meanwhile, Japanese consumers remain hesitant due to strong domestic brand loyalty and skepticism.

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FILE PHOTO: The BYD logo on display at the 2026 Paris Motor Show in Paris, France, October 13, 2026. REUTERS/Benoit Tessier/File Photo

Chinese automakers are expanding into South Korea and Japan with affordable electric vehicles, led by BYD CO LTD-H selling over 20,000 cars in the first nine months. The regional push tests entrenched domestic car markets where consumer skepticism remains high. The expansion offers cost-conscious buyers alternatives as domestic giants focus primarily on higher-end models.