Global automakers including Tesla, BMW, Honda, and Mercedes-Benz are levied a hefty fine of USD 8.16 million by South Korea for violating safety standards.

The South Korean transport ministry has imposed fines totaling 11.7 billion won (approximately $8.16 million) on 18 foreign and domestic automakers for selling cars with inadequate safety standards. The imported brands fined include BMW Korea, Honda Korea, Mercedes-Benz Korea, and Tesla Korea, while domestic manufacturers include Hyundai Motor Co., Kia Corp., and KG Mobility Corp. The fines are based on corrective measures against defective parts in certain models from July to December 2023. Some carmakers, including Hyundai Motor, BMW Korea, and others, will also voluntarily recall nearly 300,000 vehicles due to faulty components. The sales of imported cars in South Korea fell 3.9% in November, but the number of new registrations increased by 11.9% from October.