KGCCI celebrates 4th graduation of Ausbildung vocational program

Graduates of the Ausbildung program throw their caps in the air in celebration of their graduation in Seoul, Thursday. Courtesy of Korean-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry

The Korean-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KGCCI) held its 2025 Ausbildung graduation ceremony in Seoul Thursday.

The Ausbildung program, introduced to Korea by the KGCCI, is a dual vocational education system from Germany. Participants undergo a 36-month course combining 70 percent on-the-job training at companies and 30 percent academic study at universities. Upon completion, they receive an associate degree along with a certificate.

The ceremony began with congratulatory remarks from the German Ambassador to Korea Georg Schmidt.

“Ausbildung is more than just a vocational training program; it is a bridge connecting tradition and innovation, Germany and Korea and future talent with industry leaders," Schmidt said. "Graduates today will become key players in various industries, including the future mobility sector."

A total of 58 trainees received Association of German Chambers of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) certifications during the ceremony, which also looked back on their three-year journey. Trainers offered congratulatory messages to the graduates and awards were presented to the best trainees and trainers from each participating brand based on final evaluations.

Yoo Do-gyeom, a Mercedes-Benz trainee, said the opportunity to study while working through Ausbildung was a pivotal choice for his personal growth.

"I will continue to strive to become the best technician and contribute to enhancing customer service at Mercedes-Benz," he said.

Kim Young-jin, deputy managing director of the KGCCI and head of the Ausbildung program, emphasized the significance of the graduates' achievements.

"Our trainees are a source of pride and the future of Korea’s industry," Kim said. "We ask for continued support and encouragement for their future growth."

The KGCCI introduced Ausbildung to Korea in 2017 in partnership with Mercedes-Benz Korea and BMW Group Korea. Daimler Truck Korea and MAN Truck & Bus Korea joined the following year, Volkswagen Group Korea in 2019 and Porsche Korea in 2021. Five specialized universities in Korea now participate in the program.

Training is offered across more than 150 service centers in areas including general automotive maintenance, panel beating, painting and service advising. Including this year, the program has produced around 270 graduates to date, with approximately 320 trainers and 360 trainees currently participating.