Kia explores ‘Resonance of Opposites’ with two new exhibitions at Milan Design Week 2026

• Kia Global Design presents dual exhibitions under the theme ‘Resonance of Opposites,’ guided by the evolved ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy
• ‘Journey of Reflection’ at Museo della Permanente explores the emotional and introspective foundation of Kia Design’s cultural values
• ‘Journey of Projection’ at Salone dei Tessuti showcases the outward expression of Kia’s vision through six landmark concept vehicles
• Exhibitions run from 20 to 26 April during Milan Design Week

Kia Corporation (Kia) celebrates the opening of two distinct exhibitions at Milan Design Week 2026, marking a new chapter in the brand’s evolution as a global design leader. Centred on the theme ‘Resonance of Opposites,’ the exhibitions represent the latest expression of Kia’s evolving ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy.

Since 2023, Kia Design has established a strong presence at Milan Design Week, using the platform to deepen cultural dialogue and communicate the core values embedded in its design philosophy. For 2026, Kia moves beyond simply producing outcomes, instead attuning itself to the signals of evolving culture and embracing a more reflective approach that deepens emotional connection and draws on diverse perspectives rooted in the brand’s design philosophy.

Running from 20 to 26 April, the exhibition unfolds through two interconnected journeys: Journey of Reflection (Museo della Permanente), open daily from 10:00AM to 7:00PM CEST, and Journey of Projection (Salone dei Tessuti), open on 22 April from 12:00PM to 7:00PM CEST, and 23 to 26 April from 10:00AM to 7:00PM CEST.

Which exhibitions will Kia showcase at Milan Design Week 2026?
Journey of Reflection, Museo della Permanente: This exhibition invites visitors into the inner world of Kia Design, unfolding through three core cultural characteristics to offer a sensory journey shaped by designers’ perspectives, attitudes, and the reflective processes from which ideas are formed.

Cultural Vanguard – A dynamic light installation fills the space with continuously shifting waves of colour, inviting visitors to observe and reflect as overlapping streams of light symbolise how diverse perspectives come together to shape new culture.

Creative Risk-Takers – An interactive spatial installation of canyon‑like forms and shifting terrain responds to visitor movement, encouraging active exploration and expressing the spirit of creative risk‑taking through physical engagement and discovery.

Relentless Innovators – A serene, cavernous space where slowly shifting light and colour visualises the passage of time, inviting visitors to pause, reflect, and experience the inner focus that underpins continuous innovation.

In the evening, the exhibition is complemented by a curated program of talks and artist performances, each themed around one of the cultural characteristics explored in the exhibition. Bringing together designers, artists, and creative voices, these sessions offer deeper perspectives and live interpretations, adding further depth to the overall exhibition experience.

Journey of Projection, Salone dei Tessuti: Extending the reflections formed through ‘Journey of Reflection’ into present and future realities, this exhibition illustrates how Kia’s philosophy is realised through product design. The space features a curated display of six concept vehicles – EV2 (Begin), EV3 (Explore), EV4 (Create), EV5 (Connect), EV9 (Embrace), and the Kia Vision Meta Turismo (Imagine) – each representing a distinct stage in Kia’s evolving design strategy.

Together, these EV concepts present a forward‑looking design journey rooted in human freedom – challenging conventions, reinterpreting form, and exploring new possibilities that resonate with the next generation.

What has Kia leadership said about the 2026 Milan exhibitions?
Karim Habib, Executive Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design, said:
“Our presence in Milan this year marks a pivotal moment for Kia Design - a moment where inner reflection and outward expression converge along a single axis. ‘Resonance of Opposites’ is more than an exhibition; it marks a milestone in our journey – a reflection of our growth and our commitment to shaping a more sustainable future through curiosity and thoughtful, continuous innovation.

“By uncovering the journey from our designers’ inward explorations to the tangible expressions represented by our concept lineup, we invite audiences to experience how our philosophy inspires and lives through every creative decision we make.”

What is Kia’s legacy at Milan Design Week?
The 2026 exhibitions mark Kia’s fourth consecutive year participating in Milan Design Week, continuing its exploration of the ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy through collaborations with artists and creatives from diverse disciplines.

In 2023, Kia debuted an eponymous exhibition highlighting its core design pillars, drawing inspiration from the contrasts found in nature and humanity. Immersive media art installations across seven exhibition halls combined video, sound, and sculpture to present Kia’s vision for a new era of sustainable mobility design.

In 2024, Kia presented ‘Intersections Beyond Boundaries’, an exhibition that encouraged creative freedom by exploring new frontiers and expanding conventional ideas through bold artistic expression.

In 2025, Kia presented dual themes. ‘Eclipse of Perceptions’ featured conceptual artworks by artists including Philippe Parreno and A.A. Murakami, inviting visitors to engage with contemporary creativity. Meanwhile, ‘Transcend Journey’ showcased Kia’s latest PBV and EV models, with artwork demonstrating how mobility enhances the user experience by connecting innovation with adventurous lifestyles.

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