South Korean Firm Brings 440 Jobs to Indiana Town

Huntington, Indiana just landed a major win that will transform its economy and put hundreds of local residents to work.

Hanjung America Corp., a division of South Korean automotive and technology company Hanjung NCS, is building its first U.S. production facility at Riverfork West Industrial Park. The company manufactures energy storage system components that make renewable energy safer and more affordable for consumers.

The facility will start with 300 employees and grow to more than 440 positions once fully operational. With an average hourly wage exceeding $28, these manufacturing jobs offer real economic stability for working families in the area.

"These are good-paying manufacturing jobs, and our workforce will demonstrate once again what makes Huntington a special community in this global economy," said Mayor Richard Strick. The company chose Huntington specifically to better serve North American customers with their cutting-edge battery technology.

Kevin Kim, president of Hanjung America, expressed excitement about joining the Indiana community and contributing to regional development. The company's decision reflects growing confidence in the Midwest's skilled workforce and manufacturing infrastructure.

To support the expansion, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation committed up to $4.5 million in performance-based tax credits. The state also offered $400,000 in business investment credits and $200,000 in training grants, all tied to actual job creation and investment milestones.

The Huntington City Council approved a 10-year property tax phase-in plan to help the company establish its operations. A groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for April.

The Ripple Effect

This investment signals something bigger than one factory opening. When a global technology leader chooses a small Indiana city for its first American facility, it validates the region's workforce quality and business climate.

The 440+ families who will earn these jobs will spend their paychecks locally, supporting restaurants, shops, and services throughout Huntington. Their tax contributions will fund schools, infrastructure, and community programs for years to come.

The energy storage technology manufactured here will help make clean energy more accessible and affordable across the country. Every component built in Huntington contributes to a more sustainable energy grid that benefits millions of Americans.

Other companies watching this successful partnership may follow Hanjung's lead, bringing additional investment and opportunities to Indiana's smaller communities. Economic development experts often call this the "magnet effect," where one major employer attracts others.

Huntington is proving that you don't need to be a major metro to compete in the global economy.