In the ever-evolving world of cars and automotive performance, it can be difficult to stay up to date on everything. Trends come and go, and what was cool yesterday may very well suck today-or the other way around. Not too long ago, most people would laugh at the idea of modifying a Korean car. To most Americans, a Korean car was a cheap entry-level option that wasn't really cool in any way, but within the last several years, Hyundai has stepped its game up in a major way. The 2009 introduction of the Genesis Coupe to the North American market has shocked and surprised many aftermarket companies and enthusiasts across the globe; now many former haters have been taken aback and struck with the sentiment of, "Wait, that's a Hyundai?"
Jay Kim is no stranger to Korean cars and the lack of love from the world tuner market. As the owner of Seoulful Racing International, a KDM specialist (yes, Korean Domestic Market), he has been around the block a time or two when it comes to finding cool stuff for Korean whips. Born and raised in South Korea, Jay first became interested in cars when he moved to Canada to study abroad.
"Not a lot of people were modifying Korean cars in Canada and the U.S. at that time; there were hardly any parts available," Jay says. After owning a few JDM cars (namely S-chassis Nissans) and enjoying them in Canada, Jay found himself back home in Korea and he saw that the scene for KDM in the heartland was far different than across the Pacific. There were dozens of shops specializing in parts for cars that had next to nothing for aftermarket support in North America. After looking around and test driving a few done-up shop cars, Jay built himself a boosted Hyundai Tiburon and his passion for KDM cars truly came to life.
While waiting to serve in the military, Jay had plenty of time on his hands, so he got to work establishing an online message forum to help connect KDM enthusiasts across the globe. His love for cars had found a new spark back home in Korea, pushed along by the availability of parts in the motherland. The once small interest group of KDM tuners was quickly gaining notoriety, and Jay got in right on time. One thing led to another and eventually Jay and his wife settled into life stateside, which has given him the opportunity to present some cool KDM toys to us here in North America.
Jay's Hyundai Genesis Coupe is a lovely example of a nicely balanced performance machine. On the outside, a carbon-fiber hood and trunk from Seibon as well as a carbon-fiber rear diffuser cover from Sequence-X give a subtle, affective addition to the car's all-black theme. Equipped with black housing KDM headlights and KDM taillights, Jay has added just the right amount of overseas flair to his Genesis' exterior without going overboard. Much like the more familiar Japanese cars, KDM cars have many interchangeable components with their USDM counterparts. Swapping even simple, subtle things can make a world of difference when you want to stand out from the crowd.
The interior of the Genesis has also received several nice upgrades, sticking with the clean and subtle theme. A pair of Bride Gias seats with matching Bride gradation upholstered door panel inserts provide plenty of comfort for the driver and passenger, as well as a bit of JDM style in this KDM car. DEFI gauges, a NRG quick release and a Nardi steering wheel are familiar pieces that feel right at home inside the Genesis, finishing off the aesthetic interior package.
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