Hyundai Motor Group Continues Arts and Culture Support With Sumi Jo International Singing Competition
- Hyundai Motor Group
- 2026.07.12 (KST)
- 분량8min
- 조회수 83Views
- Competition for emerging vocalists held July 6–11 at the historic Château de La Ferté-Imbault in France, drawing over 500 applicants from 55 countries
- On-site programs deliver premium customer experiences, showcasing the Genesis GV70 and G80 electrified models and G90 VIP transportation service.
- Sponsorship celebrates the 140th anniversary of Korea-France diplomatic relations, fostering cultural and artistic exchange
SEOUL, July 12, 2026 – Hyundai Motor Group (The Group) continued its support for global arts and culture by officially sponsoring the second Sumi Jo International Singing Competition. The event, aimed at discovering the next generation of opera stars, took place from July 6 to 11 at the historic Château de La Ferté-Imbault in the Loire Valley, France.
Founded by world-renowned soprano Sumi Jo in 2024, the competition aims to discover and nurture emerging vocal artists aged 18-32. This year’s edition attracted greater global interest in the classical music world, drawing over 500 aspiring singers from 55 countries.
The Group participated as the official sponsor for the second edition, continuing its support from the inaugural competition. As 2026 marks the 140th anniversary of Korea-France diplomatic relations, the Group’s sponsorship contributed to nurturing artistic talent and promoting classical music culture while advancing cultural exchange between the two nations. It also reinforced the Group's commitment to supporting arts and culture, while deepening communication with customers worldwide.
"We hosted this international competition to discover and support artists with a global vision to make the world a better place through music. I am proud and grateful to join hands with Hyundai Motor Group. We hope this collaborative relationship will continue for many years to come." – Sumi Jo, soprano and founder of Sumi Jo International Singing Competition
Who Judged the Competition?
The jury for this year’s edition was composed of leading figures from the classical music world, providing a vital link between the next generation of vocalists and the established music community. Esteemed judges included Sumi Jo; Olivier O. Medinger, jury president and owner of Château de La Ferté-Imbault; Jonathan Friend, artistic advisor to the Houston Grand Opera; Paolo Gavazzeni, casting manager for La Scala; Alain Lanceron, Chairman Emeritus of Warner Classics and Erato; Melanie Allmendinger, artistic administrator at Royal Opera House; and tenor Marcelo Álvarez.
How Did the Group Enhance Brand Engagement at the Event?
To provide a premium brand experience, the Group offered on-site programs that connected Genesis with the global arts and culture community.
· Vehicle Exhibition: The Group established a dedicated exhibition space at Château de La Ferté-Imbault, showcasing Genesis Electrified GV70 and Electrified G80 models. This allowed prominent international arts and culture figures attending galas and related events to closely experience the Genesis brand.
· VIP Transportation: Genesis G90 served as the official vehicle for judges and key participants, with a dedicated chauffeur service ensuring convenience and seamless logistics throughout the competition.
· Customer Engagement: Hyundai Motor France, Kia France and Genesis Motor Europe invited key local customers in France to attend the event, connecting with them through the unique medium of cultural arts.
How Is Genesis Expanding in Europe?
Genesis recently announced its plan to expand into Austria, Denmark, Portugal and Poland by 2027, bringing its total European footprint to 11 markets. The premium automotive brand aims to have more than 50 sales locations operational across Europe by 2027. In France, Genesis made its entry in February and operates dedicated retailers in Paris and Lille.
Genesis Magma Racing, the brand's motorsport team, achieved a significant milestone in June by successfully completing the 24 Hours of Le Mans in its hypercar class debut. As the first South Korean auto brand to compete in the legendary endurance race, Genesis demonstrated the technical capability and teamwork required at motorsport's highest level.
