Michael Kleine is expected to bring more than 25 years of diplomatic experience, having held senior positions at the U.S. Department of State and key posts across the Asia-Pacific region. He previously served as U.S. chargé d'affaires to Indonesia and as minister-counselor for economic affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, where he supported efforts to conclude and ratify the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
The automaker said Kleine's background in diplomacy, trade policy and international relations will help further strengthen its cooperation with the U.S. government.
"Kleine will advance U.S. government engagement and oversee all public policy, strategic advisory and government affairs activities," it said.
The move comes as the automaker seeks closer cooperation with U.S. policymakers amid ongoing tariff pressures under U.S. President Donald Trump, as it aims to expand production in the United States and localize its supply chain as part of its major investment plans.
Kleine, who fills a vacancy left by the previous head of government relations after about a year in the role, will lead the automaker's "engagement with U.S. federal government stakeholders and oversee all public policy, strategic advisory and government affairs activities across the U.S."
His appointment "reflects our deep commitment to the U.S. and our vision to strengthen ties between Hyundai Motor Group and U.S. institutions and stakeholders. His distinguished career and proven track record in navigating complex trade and policy matters make him an invaluable addition to our team as we continue to expand our footprint in America," the automaker said.
AJP Takeaways:
- Hyundai Motor Group appointed Michael Kleine, a former U.S. State Department official with more than 25 years of diplomatic experience, as head of its Washington, D.C. government affairs office, the company announced on Aug. 5, 2026.
- Michael Kleine previously served as U.S. chargé d'affaires to Indonesia and as minister-counselor for economic affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, where he supported efforts to conclude and ratify the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
- In his new role, Michael Kleine will lead Hyundai Motor Group's engagement with U.S. federal government stakeholders and oversee all public policy, strategic advisory, and government affairs activities across the United States.
- Michael Kleine fills a vacancy left by Hyundai Motor Group's previous head of government relations, who held the role for about a year.
- The appointment comes as Hyundai Motor Group seeks closer cooperation with U.S. policymakers amid tariff pressures under U.S. President Donald Trump, as the company expands U.S. production and localizes its supply chain under its investment plans.
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