Hyundai Motor Group affiliate Kia Motors, South Korea's second largest carmaker by sales, halted its two domestic plants today (11 June) after two workers at the plants near Seoul were confirmed to have contracted coronavirus.
The suspension came after the two worker at the plants in Gwangmyeong, just southwest of Seoul, tested positive for COVID-19, a Yonhap news agency report in the Korea Herald said.
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South Korean health officials tested workers who came into contact with the virus patients and test results are due as early as Friday morning, the report said.
Yonhap said Kia Motors and health officials carried out disinfection work at the two plants, including a fitness centre used by the virus patient, in a precautionary move to stem any spread. Around 6,000 people work at the plant.
The company told Yonhap it was unclear how long the suspension would last.
The suspension disrupted production of about 1,300 vehicles, according to Kia.
The No. 1 plant makes the Carnival/Sedona, Stinger and K9 saloon while No. 2 produces the Pride and Stonic.
