Hyundai Motor Group Appoints U.S. Diplomatic Expert Michael Kleine as Head of Washington Office

Veteran Diplomat With Over 25 Years at the U.S. State Department
Contributed to KORUS FTA Ratification During U.S. Embassy Seoul Tenure

Hyundai Motor Group has appointed Michael Kleine, a diplomatic expert and former U.S. State Department official, as the new head of its Washington, D.C. office.

According to the industry on August 4, Hyundai Motor Group has named Kleine as Head of the Hyundai Motor Group Washington, D.C. Office.

As the new head of the Washington, D.C. office, Kleine will oversee external cooperation with the U.S. federal government and will be responsible for all public policy, strategic advisory, and government affairs work in the United States.

With this appointment, Hyundai Motor Group aims to further strengthen cooperation with the U.S. government in line with its expanding manufacturing and advanced technology investments in the United States.

Sung Kim, President of Hyundai Motor Group, stated, "Michael's joining demonstrates Hyundai Motor Group’s strong commitment to the United States and our vision to further strengthen partnerships with the U.S. government and key stakeholders," adding, "With his extensive experience in trade and policy, we expect him to play a significant role as Hyundai Motor Group expands its business in the United States."

Kleine is a veteran diplomat who served at the U.S. State Department for more than 25 years.

He served as Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Indonesia, and as Minister Counselor for Economic Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Korea. Notably, during his tenure in Korea, he supported the conclusion and ratification process of the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA).

He also worked at the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) as Senior Advisor for Korea and Japan Trade Policy, participating in the formulation of trade policy for the Asia region.

In 2024, he was awarded the Presidential Rank Award for Meritorious Service, given by the U.S. President, in recognition of his contributions to the field of diplomacy.

Before becoming a diplomat, he worked as an attorney in Washington, D.C., and holds a Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Duke University School of Law as well as a Master of Science (M.S.) in National Security Strategy from the National War College.

Hyundai Motor Group stated, "With his comprehensive experience in law, trade policy, and international relations, Kleine will play a key role in strengthening the Group’s strategic interests in Washington, D.C. and expanding collaboration with major policymakers."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.