Hyundai Motor Company and Toyota Motor Corporation recently co-hosted the inaugural ‘Hyundai N x TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Festival’ at South Korea’s Yongin Speedway. The event, held on October 27, 2024, drew a sold-out crowd and marked the first major collaboration between these two automotive giants, both of which are actively involved in the World Rally Championship (WRC). This partnership aimed to celebrate and strengthen motorsport culture in South Korea while bringing fans closer to the action.
A highlight of the festival was the display of high-performance vehicles, including Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 N Drift Spec and Toyota’s GR YARIS Rally 1 HYBRID. These models exemplify the brands’ dedication to both innovation and performance in motorsports. Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung and Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda played central roles in the festival. Chung and Toyoda participated in a thrilling show run, where Toyoda performed the Yaris WRC’s “Morizo’s” signature driving moves, captivating the audience with intense donuts and showcasing his skills behind the wheel.
Following the electrifying show run, Chung and Toyoda addressed the audience together on stage, where they expressed gratitude to fans, shared insights, and underscored their commitment to enriching the local motorsport scene. Hyundai, which has worked to elevate motorsports in South Korea for over 20 years, sees this festival as an extension of its mission to grow enthusiasm for racing among Korean fans. Through this joint venture, both companies are taking steps to build a motorsport legacy and foster greater engagement within the community.
