INNOCEAN renews global mandate with media network

INNOCEAN has renewed its global media partnership with Havas Media Network following an internal review covering Hyundai Motor Group brands across key international markets.

INNOCEAN is a global marketing and communications company headquartered in Seoul, Korea with operations in over 23 countries. It leads marketing and communications strategies and implementation, for a number of automotive brands. 

The renewed mandate which officially commenced in January 2026, spans Hyundai, Kia and Genesis, covering Europe, the Middle East, Asia Pacific and Latin America. The account will continue to be managed through close collaboration between Havas Media Network and INNOCEAN’s international teams based in Seoul, Frankfurt, Dubai, New Delhi and Jakarta.

Don't miss: Hyundai Malaysia picks agency to drive PR and comms

According to Havas Media Network, the renewal signals a continued focus on strengthening data and technology capabilities to better connect acquisition, conversion and retention across Hyundai Motor Group’s increasingly diverse global customer base. Both parties are expected to place greater emphasis on integrated, data-led media solutions that drive more effective and connected customer experiences at scale.

Commenting on the partnership extension, INNOCEAN highlighted the shared ambition to elevate media performance across its priority markets, noting that the collaboration is anchored in delivering growth through more connected and outcome-driven media strategies. 

Steve Jun, head of global business at INNOCEAN, said, “We are pleased to extend our partnership with Havas Media Network. Together, we will continue to accelerate growth by creating more connected and effective customer experiences for Hyundai Motor Group brands."

From Havas Media Network’s perspective, the renewal reinforces a long-standing global relationship rooted in innovation and performance. “INNOCEAN and Havas Media Network have a shared commitment to innovation, impact and global excellence at scale,” shared Peter Mears, global CEO, Havas Media Network.

“In extending our storied relationship, we look forward to driving transformative business outcomes through Converged.AI, creating seamless, data-driven media experiences that are as innovative as the Hyundai Motor Group brands we proudly champion," he added.

Mid last year, Innocean Worldwide Malaysia had appointed Mad Hat Asia to handle PR and communications duties for Hyundai Motor Malaysia. The appointment comes as the automotive brand looks to strengthen its narrative and connect with Malaysian car buyers through lifestyle-led storytelling. The appointment, which runs from May 2025 to April 2026, is a 12-month retainer that sees Mad Hat working alongside Innocean Malaysia, Hyundai Malaysia’s master agency, to deliver comprehensive PR support across both brand and product communications.

And earlier this month, Innocean Worldwide Malaysia also picked The SHOUT GROUP to create advertising materials for Hyundai’s Malaysian market. 

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