South Korea Hits 1 Million Cumulative EV Registrations as 2026 Sales Reach 106,939 Units by April

Cumulative electric vehicle registrations have surpassed the 1 million mark, Yonhap reported. More than 100,000 electric vehicles were newly registered in the country during the first four months of 2026, according to government data compiled by the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment.

A total of 106,939 electric vehicles were sold in South Korea as of April 18, 2026. Electric vehicle sales in South Korea in 2026 represent growth compared to 2025 and 2024, the ministry's data indicated. Last year, South Korea reached the 100,000-unit electric vehicle registration milestone in seven months.

In 2024, the country surpassed the 100,000-unit mark from January to September.

Vehicles accounted for more than 20 percent of all new cars sold in South Korea as of the end of March 2026, Yonhap reported, citing the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment. This figure stood at 13 percent for the corresponding period in 2025.

9 percent of new car sales during the same timeframe. Electric vehicles were parked in a parking lot in Seoul on January 28, 2026, as captured in a file photo from Yonhap.

The recent popularity of electric vehicles in South Korea is attributed to the Middle Eastern crisis pushing up fuel prices, according to the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment. Automakers' release of new EV models has also contributed to the surge. Additionally, the government's EV promotion policy has played a role in boosting adoption.

“The government will continue efforts to further expand the distribution of EVs, including EV subsidies," the ministry said. This statement reflects ongoing commitment to supporting electric vehicle growth amid rising registrations.”