Who Owns Kumho Tires?

Kumho Tire is one of South Korea's largest tire manufacturers and a significant player in the global tire industry. The company specializes in producing high-quality tires for various vehicle types and driving conditions, serving both original equipment manufacturers and replacement tire markets. In 2026, Kumho continues its transformation under Doublestar Group ownership while maintaining its operational independence and Korean identity.

Founded in 1960, Kumho Tire has grown from a domestic Korean manufacturer into a global tire powerhouse with over 60 years of engineering excellence. The company produces more than 68 million tires annually and distributes to over 180 countries worldwide, generating approximately $1.8 billion in annual exports. This global reach positions Kumho among the world's top tire manufacturers by volume and geographic presence.

The company underwent significant ownership changes in 2018 when China's Qingdao Doublestar Group acquired a 45% stake for approximately $607 million. This acquisition followed Kumho's financial difficulties between 2009-2016, when the company entered a debt workout program after the collapse of its parent company, Kumho Asiana Group. In February 2026, Doublestar received final approval from the Shenzhen Stock Exchange to officially absorb the 45% stake, valued at $708.2 million, creating a combined entity positioned among the global top 10 tire manufacturers.

Despite Chinese ownership, Kumho Tire maintains operational independence with its management team based in Seoul continuing to run the business autonomously. The company employs a dual-brand strategy where Kumho serves as the premium brand while Doublestar focuses on value and commercial tire segments. This arrangement preserves Kumho's brand identity and Korean heritage while leveraging Doublestar's resources for global expansion.

Kumho Tire maintains an extensive manufacturing network with facilities in South Korea (Pyeongtaek, Gokseong, and Gwangju plants), China (Tianjin, Gaoxin/Nanjing plants), Vietnam, India, Mexico, and the United States. The company positions itself as a "Smart Mobility Partner," focusing on innovative tire technology and sustainable mobility solutions. Significant research and development operations are distributed across these facilities, concentrating on tire technology, safety improvements, and performance innovations.

The company has demonstrated remarkable resilience and recovery since 2018, returning to profitability by focusing on high-end electric vehicle tires and smart manufacturing initiatives. Between 2019 and 2025, Kumho invested heavily in R&D for EV-specific tires, advanced materials, and digital manufacturing processes. This strategic pivot has positioned the company strongly in the growing electric vehicle market, where tire requirements differ significantly from traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.

Kumho's global expansion strategy includes strengthening its presence in North America through warehouse and distribution capacity expansion, partnering with regional dealers, and launching new all-season and touring models specifically designed for American road conditions. The company has also expanded its European footprint and maintains strong positions in Asian markets where it benefits from brand recognition and competitive pricing.