Hyundai Steel-POSCO Louisiana Steel (HPLS) held a community engagement event to connect with local residents ahead of the upcoming construction of its steel mill.
On September 6, HPLS hosted the 'HPLS Community Day' at Louisiana Square in Donaldsonville, Ascension Parish, Louisiana, inviting local residents to participate.
The event, themed 'HPLS in Harmony with Local Residents,' attracted approximately 700 attendees, including Leroy Sullivan, the mayor of Donaldsonville, and HPLS CEO Kim Hyung-jin, who is also the head of Hyundai Steel's North American steel division. HPLS employees joined in various activities with the community.
HPLS organized the event to enhance local understanding of the electric arc furnace steel mill and to share expectations. Louisiana Square, established in 1806, is a historic site and a cultural hub for the community, hosting various festivals each year.
By holding the event in a location significant to Louisiana residents, HPLS aims to quickly integrate the new steel mill into the community.
In addition to the event, HPLS plans to build strong ties with local residents through ongoing communication and collaboration, establishing a foundation for the sustainable growth of the steel mill.
Mayor Leroy Sullivan expressed his happiness at the successful groundbreaking ceremony for HPLS, stating, 'HPLS will provide many opportunities for the citizens of Donaldsonville.'
Kim Hyung-jin also remarked, 'When the local community grows and develops, HPLS can succeed alongside it,' adding that the company aims to create sustainable opportunities for local residents and future generations.
During the event, Kim presented a plaque of appreciation to Ascension Parish officials and the mayor of Donaldsonville for their support during the preparation for the steel mill's construction. The event featured performances by local artists, experience booths highlighting the significance of the steel mill, and food stalls offering local and Korean cuisine.
HPLS is set to build its first steel mill in the U.S., with an annual capacity of 2.7 million tons. Hyundai Steel will hold a 50% stake, while POSCO will have 20%, and Hyundai Motor and Kia will each invest 15%. Production is expected to begin in 2029, with an annual output of 1.8 million tons of automotive steel and 900,000 tons of general steel.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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