Local and state leaders gathered on Thursday, July 18, 2024 to celebrate the grand opening of AJIN Georgia in Bulloch County, the first Tier 1 supplier announced for Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA). This state-of-the-art facility will produce interior metal and structural parts, with construction kicking off in early 2023.
Jamie Calloway, HR General Manager of AJIN Georgia, warmly welcomed the diverse crowd, including HMGMA CEO Onchung Gwon, representatives from MOBIS, state and local officials, the Korean consulate, and academic leaders from Georgia Southern University and Ogeechee Technical College. Also in attendance were construction experts, utility providers, local media, and representatives from Ajin USA and Wooshin in Alabama.
Calloway expressed gratitude for the extensive support that made the facility's construction and opening possible. Ajin Georgia's CEO and President, Mr. Jungho Sea, spoke about the company's commitment to the local community and its employees, highlighting their dedication to quality and corporate responsibility.
Billy Allen, Chair of the Development Authority of Bulloch County, underscored the significance of AJIN Georgia's arrival, applauding the efforts to attract top-tier companies to Bruce Yawn Commerce Park. Allen celebrated the success of bringing three to four Hyundai suppliers to Bulloch County, emphasizing the Development Authority's mission to stimulate local industry.
Sydne Smith, COO of the Georgia Department of Economic Development, shared congratulations from Governor Brian Kemp and Commissioner Pat Wilson. She praised Georgia's decade-long status as the top state for business and celebrated the 630 new jobs that Ajin Georgia will create. Smith highlighted the collective effort in economic development and thanked all partners involved.
State Senator Billy Hickman of District 4 expressed his excitement about the facility's economic impact and job opportunities for Bulloch County and beyond. Referencing a Georgia Southern University economic impact study, Senator Hickman highlighted the vital role of manufacturing in the local economy, noting that quality, high-paying jobs can significantly reduce poverty. "Ajin Georgia, HMGMA, and other suppliers also create career opportunities for our children to stay or return home after college," said Senator Hickman.
The Council General of the Republic of Korea congratulated Ajin Georgia on its successful site selection and praised the company's role in establishing an electric vehicle supply chain in the southeastern U.S.
A video presentation followed, featuring congratulatory messages from international leaders, including:
- Ho Young Joo, Vice-Chairman/National Assembly Republic of Korea
- Young Jin Kwon, Member of the National Assembly Republic of Korea
- Lee Cheol Woo, Governor of Gyeongsangbuk-do, Republic of Korea
- Faustin Archange Tauadera, President Central African Republic
They celebrated the economic and cultural partnership between Korea and the U.S., highlighting Ajin Georgia's role in this collaboration.
Calloway concluded with closing remarks, thanking everyone for their contributions. “It has taken a visionary owner, business partners, community involvement, and support from City, County, and State agencies to make this plant a reality. Thank you all, and let's give everyone a round of applause.”
Guests then toured the $317 million plant, which spans 82 acres and includes hundreds of robots handling most production processes. Over 200 of the initial 300 employees have been hired, with a hiring push planned in August to fill the remaining positions.
"We are providing incredible career opportunities for citizens with no production experience," Calloway said. "We can train an employee in less than a week to perform most production jobs."
The grand opening of Ajin Georgia marks a significant milestone for our community and the broader economic landscape. Click here to learn more about career opportunities.