A fire at Anjeon Industrial, a longtime supplier of engine valves, has disrupted vehicle production across Hyundai Motor Group.
On March 25, industry sources reported that Anjeon Industrial — founded in 1953 — produces engine valves for cars and ships and supplies Hyundai’s Ulsan and Asan plants, as well as Kia’s Autoland complexes in Hwaseong, Gwangmyeong and Gwangju.
Engine valves are critical components for internal combustion engines. The fire stopped shipments and triggered production slowdowns at several vehicle plants.
Kia’s Autoland Hwaseong engine plant has already adjusted its operations after valve deliveries were halted.
Beginning today, workers will be on the line for just two hours per shift for two days, and the plant plans a full suspension of operations on the 27th.
Some models built at Kia’s Autoland Gwangju — including the Sportage and Seltos — also use valves from Anjeon Industrial. Plant officials say they are evaluating alternative suppliers and other contingency options.
At Hyundai’s Ulsan plant, production has not yet been interrupted, but managers are reprioritizing the model lineup to allocate the limited valve supply.
Lines are being run by prioritizing models that do not require Anjeon-sourced valves.
Meanwhile, Donghee Auto, which contract-manufactures the Kia Morning and Ray, said valve supply disruptions will force a partial production halt starting March 27 and that it is considering a full shutdown from April 1–11.
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Jang Han-byul (good_star@yna.co.kr)
