# Tesla dominance in South Korean import market

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/tesla-dominance-in-south-korean-import-market
> Updated: 2026-10-09T12:00:42.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

Tesla has maintained its position as the leading brand in the South Korean imported passenger vehicle market for eight consecutive months. In September, Tesla captured a 35.45% market share with 12,372 registrations, outpacing BMW and Mercedes-Benz. The Tesla Model Y L was identified as the most popular imported model. 

Electric vehicles have become a significant portion of the market, accounting for 52.1% of all new imported passenger car registrations in September. 

While Tesla dominates imports, domestic market trends show variation; GM Korea reported a 40.9% year-on-year decrease in domestic sales for September, despite a substantial increase in its total combined sales driven by a 79.5% surge in overseas sales.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-09: Tesla leads South Korean import market as Honda develops wireless charging

Tesla remains the top imported car brand in South Korea for the eighth straight month, while Honda develops wireless charging road technology.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/tesla-leads-south-korean-import-market-as-honda-develops-wireless-charging

### 2026-10-06: South Korean auto market: Tesla leads imports as GM Korea domestic sales fall

Tesla led South Korea's imported car market in September with a 35% share, while GM Korea saw domestic sales drop by 40.9% despite a surge in overseas shipments.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korean-auto-market-tesla-leads-imports-as-gm-korea-domestic-sales-fall

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Cite as: Tesla dominance in South Korean import market. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/tesla-dominance-in-south-korean-import-market