By Lee Jon Young

The Korean-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry announced on Dec. 11 that its German chairperson, Holgar Gerrmann, CEO of Porsche Korea, and Susanne Woehrle, Senior Executive Director of KGCCI, have been appointed as an Honorary Foreign Citizen of Seoul. This honor recognizes their outstanding contributions to the city and leadership in both business and community spheres.

The honorary citizenship ceremony took place at the Seoul City Hall on December 8, 2023, as part of the city's initiative to acknowledge individuals who have significantly contributed to the development of the city's administration and the promotion of citizens' life and cultural activities.

Holger Gerrmann, Chairperson of KGCCI and CEO of Porsche Korea, expressing his gratitude, remarked, “Seoul is a city that inspires dreamers; it combines historic landmarks and modern cityscapes filled with rich history and vibrant cultural diversity. The city has so much energy and positivity to move forward.” He further stated, “As a representative of the corporate citizens and a member of Seoul City, I will fulfil my responsibilities for the society with pride, honor, and affection.”

Since Gerrmann was elected as the German chairperson of KGCCI in June 2022, he has been actively contributing to the Korean-German business community. His involvement extends beyond the boardroom and Innovation Awards that are to support companies that create value in the Korean market through innovative products, and technologies, while also promoting new business collaborations between Korea and Germany.

Additionally, Gerrmann has been engaged in various Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. One notable event was the joint CSR initiative titled “140 Guide Walkers” in September 2023. Gerrmann and nearly 300 colleagues and partners from KGCCI and its member companies served as guide walkers for individuals with visual impairments at the 9th Harmony Marathon with Visually Impaired, emphasizing KGCCI’s commitment to inclusive community engagement.

In parallel recognition, Susanne Woehrle, Senior Executive Director of KGCCI, has been appointed as Honorary Foreign Citizen of Seoul. She introduced the German vocational training program, Ausbildung, to Korea in the automotive mechanic field and has managed the program within KGCCI for seven years with all German automobile brands participating today. Ausbildung training is a 36-month educational program combining on-the-job training (70%) at work and theory-based education from colleges (30%). Upon completion of the program, trainees receive Ausbildung certificate issued by the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) and KGCCI.

Woehrle and her team launched the Ausbildung program in South Korea in collaboration with German automotive companies Mercedes-Benz Korea and BMW Group Korea in 2017. Subsequently, Daimler Truck Korea and MAN Truck & Bus Korea joined in 2018, followed by Volkswagen Group Korea in 2019 and Porsche Korea in 2021. Five Korean colleges are participating in the program in four different Ausbildung professions – general auto maintenance, car body, and painting and service advising. The program has seen an impressive growth that around 470 trainees and 280 trainers are currently involved in the program, operating at 130 service centers. A total of 127 trainees have already successfully completed the Ausbildung program.

KGCCI President & CEO Dr. Martin Henkelmann congratulated, stating, “These well-deserved recognitions reflect not only their outstanding leadership in the business realm but also unwavering commitment to fostering positive community impact. The dedication of Mr. Gerrmann and Ms. Woehrle to advancing the Korean-German relationship and service at KGCCI have greatly contributed to our organization's success. We are immensely proud of their achievements and honored.”