Hankook

Korean quality with European OEM partnerships

Est. 1941•South Korea

History & Overview

Hankook Tire was founded in 1941 in Seoul, South Korea as Chosun Tire Company, making it one of the oldest tire manufacturers in Asia. The company changed its name to Hankook in 1968 and began an ambitious expansion that would transform it from a regional manufacturer into a global player.

Hankook's breakthrough into the premium market came through establishing OEM relationships with major European automakers. The company became an original equipment supplier for BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Porsche, and Volkswagen, a feat that required meeting stringent German engineering standards. This credibility translated into increased consumer confidence and market share.

The company operates a significant European presence including a major R&D center in Hanover, Germany, and a manufacturing facility in Hungary. This European integration has been crucial to Hankook's positioning as a premium alternative to traditional European and Japanese brands. In motorsport, Hankook served as the exclusive tire supplier to DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters) from 2011 to 2020, further cementing its performance credentials with European enthusiasts.

For official specifications, visit Hankook's official website.

Popular Tire Lines

Ventus S1 evo3

Max Performance Summer

Flagship summer performance tire co-developed with European automakers. Aramid hybrid cap ply improves high-speed stability. OEM fitment on BMW M models and Porsche. Available in 17"-21".

Ventus RS4

Extreme Performance Summer

Track-capable street tire for serious enthusiasts. Competition-derived compound provides exceptional grip at temperature. Popular choice for HPDE events. Available in 15"-19".

Ventus V12 evo2

Ultra High Performance Summer

High-performance summer tire for sports cars and sport sedans. Multi-directional grooves optimize wet evacuation. Available in 16"-21".

Kinergy GT

Grand Touring All-Season

Premium touring tire balancing comfort with longevity. Advanced silica compound improves fuel efficiency. 70,000-mile warranty. Available in 15"-19".

Kinergy 4S2

Grand Touring All-Weather

All-weather tire with 3PMSF severe snow rating. V-shaped directional tread excels in rain and snow. Popular in variable climates. Available in 15"-19".

Dynapro AT2

On/Off-Road All-Terrain

Versatile all-terrain for trucks and SUVs with 3PMSF rating. Multi-Directional grooves clear mud and snow. 60,000-mile warranty. Available in 15"-22".

Price Range

$300 - $1,100+PER SET

Brand Highlights

  • OEM supplier to BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Porsche, and Volkswagen
  • Major European R&D center in Hanover, Germany for premium tire development
  • Exclusive DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters) tire supplier 2011-2020
  • Aramid hybrid technology borrowed from ballistic applications for high-speed stability
  • Manufacturing facilities in South Korea, Hungary, China, and Indonesia
  • Strong value proposition - premium OEM quality at accessible pricing

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