In Korea, the Ausbildung system is conducted as a 36-month program, divided into 24 months of on-the-job training (OJT) and 12 months of theoretical education at colleges (OFF-JT, 3 semesters). Trainees—referred to as such in Korea—sign an employment contract and work as regular employees while receiving hands-on training from qualified trainers at the workplace.
At the same time, partner colleges operate separate Ausbildung classes within relevant departments of automotive engineering for Ausbildung trainees (Training occupation: Car Maintenance), providing high-quality theoretical education aligned with action-oriented training based on the German curriculum. The theoretical education consists of 2/3 technical theory and 1/3 social sciences, including politics, economics, and social studies.
For male trainees, we support military service arrangements through an agreement with Korea’s Military Manpower Administration, enabling enlistment as automotive mechanics in the second year of the program (subject to change depending on physical examination results, etc.). The 18-month military service period is not included in the 36-month program duration.
Upon completion of the program, trainees receive a training certificate issued by The German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) and the Korean-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KGCCI). This certificate is classified under the DIHK’s quality category “German Dual Vocational Training Abroad.”
DIHK Quality Categories of the AHK-IHK-DIHK Network
- German Dual Vocational Training Abroad (A)
- Local Dual Vocational Training Based on the German Model (B)
- Local Dual Qualification with German System Elements (C)
All categories are equally recognized and ranked without value judgment. They are structured flexibly to meet diverse regional conditions and company needs.
Currently, KGCCI conducts training in the automotive sector under DIHK Quality Category A for the professions of general repair and car paint.
Download DIHK Quality Category Brochure
In addition graduates receive an internal technician certification from their respective brands (as of 2025: Daimler Trucks Korea, MAN Truck & Bus Korea, Mercedes-Benz Korea, BMW Group Korea, Volkswagen and Audi (Volkswagen Group Korea) issue certificates based on the final exam results) as well as a bachelor’s degree from the college.
Furthermore, depending on their training performance and work attitude, the respective dealerships offer opportunities for continued employment.
Germany’s vocational training system currently includes 327 recognized training occupations and trains approximately 1.3 million trainees each year. It actively supports the development of young professionals, facilitates their transition into the labor market, and contributes to both economic growth and the resolution of societal challenges.
Get in touch
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Eunice Kyungah Min
Assistant Manager Ausbildung (Vocational Training)
+82 2-3780-4673 kamin@kgcci.com
