SEOUL, Dec.15 (Korea Bizwire) – Management from Hyundai Motor held a special event in which they met their anti-fans to discuss the misunderstandings they have about Hyundai vehicles.
Kwak Jin, Vice President of Hyundai Motor participated in the third ‘Maum Dream’ event, and communicated with the members of an internet anti café called ‘Bobe Durim’.
This was the first time management met with the antis since the company was established. The participants raised difficult questions related to the prices of products, and their complaints about service. The tension in the room could be cut with a knife.
Kwak commented that management acknowledges the negative image people have about Hyundai Motor. “We feel the importance of quick and delicate communication with customers. We are taking various measures to reflect the thoughts of our customers. To mention one, we will be starting the ‘H- Ombudsman’ policy.”
The ‘H-Ombudsman’ policy reflects the reactions and ideas of a group of consumers. After the consumer ombudsmen conduct their ‘Mystery Shopping’ and make product suggestions and service and management of the dealership, Hyundai will reflect the comments in all fields of the business after making modifications.
One customer complained that ‘the airbags in Hyundai vehicles do not operate well’. Kwak answered that airbags operate according to the physical force detected by the airbag censor, which is exactly the same in carmakers all over the world.
He also added that the airbags were different between domestic cars and cars sold in North America because of safety regulations, but the same airbags have been installed in all Hyundai cars since last year.
In response to a question about the increasing demand for foreign cars, Kwak answered that ‘it is a result that reflects various needs of consumers and the disappointment with Hyundai vehicles’. He promised that Hyundai will advance its product quality to increase competitiveness against foreign cars.
A total of 100 customers were selected out of 1,512 who applied through the Hyundai Motor homepage, and 80 toured the Namyang R&D center to take a peek at the ‘Ionic(Project AE)’ which is expected to be launched early next year.
Officials from Hyundai Motor commented that the event was meaningful as they could directly listen to the criticism and suggestions from their customers.
By Francine Jung (francine.jung@kobizmedia.co.kr)