Hyundai is recalling over 58,000 Palisade SUVs in South Korea after a deadly US crash linked to a faulty automatic seat system. Read the latest updates and safety tips.
Hyundai Motor Company has widened its global recall of the Palisade SUV after a series of safety incidents tied to the vehicle’s automatic seat‑folding system. The latest move targets roughly 58,000 Palisade units registered in South Korea, adding to earlier recalls in the United States and Canada.
Background of the Recall
The Palisade, Hyundai’s best‑selling SUV in its home market, has been praised for its spacious interior and family‑friendly features. However, a design flaw in the software that controls the second‑ and third‑row seats has raised serious safety alarms. The system can fail to detect when a passenger or a foreign object is present, causing the seat to fold unexpectedly.
US Fatal Incident Triggers Global Action
In October 2023, a two‑year‑old girl in Ohio lost her life when the third‑row seat folded while she was seated. The tragic accident prompted the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to open an investigation and led Hyundai to suspend sales of certain high‑end Palisade trims. The company subsequently recalled 68,500 vehicles in the United States and Canada.
South Korean Recall Details
On 24 March, South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport announced a nationwide recall of about 58,000 Palisade SUVs. The agency cited “software optimisation issues” in the seat‑control module that prevent the seats from recognising passenger contact. The recall also covers two separate injury reports from October and December 2023, where occupants reported seat‑related incidents.
Software Fix Rollout
Starting 21 March, Hyundai began distributing a software update as a temporary remedy. Owners can now disable the automatic folding function with a single button press, eliminating the need to power the vehicle off and restart it. The update also restricts electric seat movement to when the rear door is open, adding an extra layer of protection.
Financial Impact and Legal Risks
Meritz Securities estimates that if hardware replacement becomes necessary, the recall could cost Hyundai up to 100 billion won (approximately US$66 million). In addition to direct expenses, the automaker faces potential class‑action lawsuits and punitive‑damage claims from injured parties and families of victims.
What Palisade Owners Should Do
- Check your VIN against Hyundai’s official recall database.
- Schedule a service appointment at an authorised dealership to install the latest software update.
- If you own a model from the 2023‑2024 production run, consider disabling the automatic seat‑folding feature until a permanent fix is confirmed.
- Stay informed through Hyundai’s communications and local consumer‑protection agencies.
Hyundai has pledged to continue working with safety regulators worldwide to resolve the issue and restore confidence in the Palisade line. Owners are urged to act promptly to ensure their families remain protected.