A rendering of the DIA manufacturing plant in the Auburn Technology Park West. Rendering courtesy of the city of Auburn.
AUBURN, Ala. (May 19, 2026) — South Korean automotive electronics supplier Duck IL USA (DIA) is strengthening its U.S. footprint with a $21 million investment to expand operations in Auburn, further advancing Alabama’s position as a growing hub for advanced automotive manufacturing and supply chain investment.
The expansion at Auburn Technology Park West will establish a high-tech manufacturing operation focused on producing advanced electronic system components for the automotive industry. Initial project plans call for the creation of more than 20 jobs in the first phase, with potential for future growth as production scales.
DIA, headquartered in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, manufactures automotive electronic systems and components, including dashboard controls and electronic seat adjustment switches supplied to major automakers such as Chrysler, General Motors, Hyundai, Kia and Tesla.
Local leaders say the project reinforces Auburn’s ability to attract international investment while building long-term economic opportunities.
“This investment in Auburn will create a high-tech manufacturing operation of electronic system components for the automotive industry, and in this first phase, more than 20 individuals will find a job in our community,” Auburn Mayor Ron Anders said. “I want to personally thank the owners — the You family — for their trust in Auburn and assure them of our support moving forward.”
The mayor noted that investments of this nature extend beyond direct employment impacts, generating additional economic activity and tax revenues that support infrastructure, schools, public safety and community services.
For DIA, the expansion represents a strategic move toward localizing production capabilities to better serve North American automotive customers and meet evolving market demands.
“With our commitment to research and development, we will continue to provide value to our automotive customers by offering smart solutions using the latest technologies,” said Ki Duck You, chairman and CEO of DIA. “The facility in Auburn will allow us to build advanced electronic systems made in the U.S. for the U.S. market.”
You also emphasized the company’s appreciation for state and local partnerships supporting the project and highlighted plans to develop workforce pipelines through collaborations with educational institutions including Auburn University and Southern Union State Community College.
The investment aligns with broader trends reshaping the automotive sector, as suppliers increasingly localize advanced manufacturing and electronic component production to support domestic vehicle assembly and next-generation mobility technologies.
For Alabama, the project adds another international investment to the state’s expanding automotive ecosystem, which continues to attract manufacturers supporting electric vehicle technologies, smart systems and advanced mobility solutions.
