Neu-Isenburg, Germany, 27 March 2025 – A new era of leadership is taking shape at premium tyre manufacturer Hankook, as the company elevates Jongseon Ahn and Sanghoon Lee to the roles of Executive Directors and new Co-CEOs. The decision was made following approval at the Annual General Meeting and Board of Directors meeting held on 26 March at its headquarters in South Korea.
The dual leadership by the two expert CEOs marks a strategic change for Hankook, reflecting the company’s vision for elevated management efficiency and strategic decision-making anchored in sustainable growth, responsible management and profitability. Hankook plans to continue strengthening innovative management to expand its presence in the premium market while enhancing brand value. This will, in turn, reinforce the company’s position as a global leader in future mobility.
Jongseon Ahn, the newly appointed Co-CEO, will lead global innovation, R&D, procurement, production, and quality at Hankook. Sanghoon Lee, also appointed as Co-CEO, will oversee global sales, and spearhead marketing initiatives to strengthen the premium positioning of the company’s unified global brand, Hankook, while also managing the supply of original equipment (OE) tyres for new vehicles.
Ahn brings deep leadership experience and a strong track record in driving technological innovation at Hankook & Company, the operating holding company. In 2021, he led innovation efforts as COO of Hankook & Company and Head of ES (Energy Solution) Business Headquarters, overseeing overall management. He was appointed CEO in 2022. Under his leadership, the company expanded sales of premium Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries across major global markets, significantly improving profitability and reinforcing the foundation for sustainable growth.
Sanghoon Lee brings deep expertise in marketing and global sales strategy, underpinned by extensive international leadership experience. Since 2018, he has held key regional leadership roles in China and Europe, where he was instrumental in strengthening the company’s premium brand positioning globally and consistently driving innovative business performance, contributing significantly to revenue growth. His leadership and performance led to his nomination as Co-CEO of Hankook at the end of last year.
In addition to the leadership appointments, shareholders approved all eight agenda items presented at the Annual General Meeting, including the approval of the consolidated financial statements, partial amendments to the Articles of Incorporation and the appointment of directors.
Hankook remains committed to strengthening communication with shareholders and stakeholders. The company continues to review a range of initiatives, including shareholder return policies with a focus on enhancing shareholder value.
