Well..here is the section from kiatechinfo
http://www.geocities.com/lmp4203/kiasport/steeringgear.pdf
WIsh there is no other item that could have been overlooked...but the logical speculation seems pointing this way based on your findings. DId not experience that myself on that specific car...wish some one could come with a live experience.
Pay some attention to these threads:
http://www.4x4wire.com/forums/showflat.php?Cat=&Board=UBB70&Number=875631
http://www.4x4wire.com/forums/showflat.php?Cat=&Board=UBB70&Number=811483
http://www.4x4wire.com/forums/showflat.php?Cat=&Board=UBB70&Number=658907