Tesla’s momentum in South Korea continues to accelerate as demand for imported electric vehicles surges across the country. New registration data shows the automaker’s sales have skyrocketed in early 2026, helping fuel a broader boom in imported cars as Korean buyers increasingly shift toward electrified vehicles like the Model Y.
According to new registration data from the Korea Automobile Importers & Distributors Association (KAIDA), Tesla has emerged as one of the fastest-growing import brands in the country. In the first two months of 2026, Tesla delivered 9,834 vehicles in South Korea—nearly four times higher than the same period last year.
The growth reflects sustained demand for Tesla’s electric lineup, particularly the Model Y, which has consistently ranked among the most popular imported vehicles in the country. The Model Y’s blend of range, performance, and technology has helped Tesla carve out a strong position in a market traditionally dominated by European luxury brands.
Tesla’s success helped drive overall sales of imported passenger vehicles to 27,190 units in February, a 35% increase compared to the same month last year when 20,199 vehicles were registered. (via Just Auto)
The strength of the import market stands in sharp contrast to the domestic auto sector. While imported vehicles surged in February, combined sales from South Korea’s five major domestic automakers declined by 3.5% year-over-year to 195,798 units during the first two months of 2026.
Tesla’s momentum in South Korea has been building for several years. In the first half of 2024, the Model Y became the best-selling imported vehicle in the country, surpassing popular models from Mercedes-Benz and BMW. That milestone marked a rare shift in the competitive landscape, where German automakers had long dominated import sales.
The trend continued in 2025 when Tesla claimed the top spot among imported brands for the first time following the launch of an updated Model Y. In May of that year, Tesla sold 6,570 vehicles in the country, beating both Mercedes-Benz and BMW for the monthly lead.
