The Korean-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KGCCI, President & CEO Marie Antonia von Schönburg) has released the 12th CSR Report of German Companies in Korea, showcasing how German businesses are contributing to Korean society through long-term commitments to sustainability, education, healthcare and community development.
The annual publication features corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives from 12 German companies: Airbus, Bayer, Boehringer Ingelheim, FUCHS, Henkel, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Robert Bosch, Schaeffler, Siemens, TÜV SÜD, and Volkswagen Group. Their activities span environmental protection, STEM education, healthcare, diversity and inclusion, employee volunteering, and community development.
First published in 2014, the KGCCI CSR Report documents the evolving contributions of German businesses to Korean society. Today, approximately 540 German companies operate in Korea, employing around 100,000 people and contributing to the country's economic and social development.
“German companies in Korea contribute in many ways beyond business and investment alone,” said Marie Antonia von Schönburg, President & CEO of KGCCI. “Through their engagement in education, healthcare, sustainability and inclusion, they help create opportunities and positive impact for the communities in which they operate. As we look ahead to the Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business (APK) 2026 in Seoul, this report reflects the strong values-based partnership between Korea and Germany and the many ways in which business can contribute to sustainable and inclusive growth.”
A key highlight of this year's report is the continued growth of Guide Walkers, KGCCI's flagship joint CSR initiative launched in 2023 to commemorate 140 years of diplomatic relations between Korea and Germany. Held in Seoul on June 13, 2026, the initiative brought together nearly 1,200 participants from around 30 German companies and institutions, alongside family members and members of the public.
Volunteers joined visually impaired participants in a community walking event, promoting accessibility, inclusion, and greater awareness of disability rights. The program recorded its highest participation and fundraising results since its launch, with participation increasing fivefold compared with its inaugural year.
Beyond Guide Walkers, the report showcases how German companies are addressing social challenges through practical, long-term initiatives. These include expanding access to science education, supporting medical research and public health, developing greener urban spaces, promoting safe mobility, and improving accessibility for people with disabilities.
KGCCI has also strengthened its commitment to diversity and inclusion through partnerships with the Seoul Blind Union and Envisions, operator of the experiential exhibition Dialogue in the Dark. Its Women in koRea (WIR) mentoring program continues to support women's professional development and leadership opportunities, in collaboration with the Sungjoo Foundation.
The publication comes ahead of APK 2026, taking place in Seoul from October 29 to 31. Bringing together leading business and political figures from Germany and across the Asia-Pacific region, the conference will explore the future of economic cooperation amid global industrial and geopolitical shifts. The CSR Report highlights the broader foundation of this partnership, demonstrating how long-term corporate engagement and responsible business practices contribute to sustainable growth and stronger ties between Germany and Korea.
The 12th CSR Report of German Companies in Korea is available on the KGCCI website.
Download: https://korea.ahk.de/en/meta-navigation/info-hub/corporate-social-responsibility
