A typical modern (say, mid 90s or later) car immobilizer is not mechanical, it is electronic. If you don't have a properly programmed key (or fob) in close proximity to the sensor, the ECU won't let the engine start. No amount of physical force or access to the steering column will defeat it. You may get far enough to make the starter turn the engine, but the ECU won't fire the injectors.

The problem with Hyundai & Kia is that they elected not to include this 25 year old technology at all.