If I am correct Alignment has nothing to do with Wheel Bearing's !

I think you're on the right track, I saw a bulletin about this not too
long ago that talked about bearing pre-load on the rio being important
when installing new wheel bearings. Perhaps you should mention this to
your dealer.

Chris

I got this from the July 2004 issue of "Technician times"

Kia Motors America continues to receive inquires
about Rio front wheel bearings pre-load. The following
article was originally published in Technician
Times Volume 5, Issue 2, 2002.
When servicing front wheel bearings on Rio models,
it is critical to have the correct preload on the bearings.
Front wheel bearings assembled with incorrect
pre-load may fail prematurely resulting in repeat
repairs. The Rio Service Manual, page DS-25 instructs
the use of SST – 0K130 322 020 for use with a pull
scale, however this SST (arm) is not available. KMA
recommends using an inch-pound torque wrench and
the following procedure (procedure requires the use of
Special Service Tool 0K130 331 016). The torque
wrench specifications are in the Rio Service manual.
1. With steering knuckle removed from the vehicle
and hub removed from the knuckle (refer to Rio
Service Manual, pages DS-21 - DS-25), clamp
SST-0K130 331 016 in a bench vice.
2. Install knuckle with rear bearing onto SST.
3. Install spacer and outer bearing onto SST.
4. Install the SST bushing and nut, then torque to
116-173 lb-ft (157-235Nm).
5. Remove from the bench vice and clamp the
knuckle in the vice so that the SST can turn in
the bearings.
6. Using an inch-pound torque wrench, turn the
SST to check the preload (see photo). Preload
specification is 2.2-10.4 lb-in (.25-1.17 Nm).