The Korean-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry announced on Monday the appointment of Marie Antonia von Schonburg as its new president and CEO.

Since 2000, von Schonburg has built an extensive career within the German Chamber of Commerce network, serving in key roles, such as corporate relations officer and deputy director in Spain. She later led the Barcelona branch in 2011 before being appointed as the representative of the German Chamber of Commerce in Sri Lanka in 2022. Throughout her career, she has played a pivotal role in fostering economic cooperation between Germany and local businesses.

Originally from Stuttgart, Germany, von Schonburg holds a degree in business administration from the University of Passau and specialized in international marketing at the National University of Ireland, Dublin.

"KGCCI plays a crucial role in bridging Korean and German companies, promoting economic cooperation and innovation," von Schonburg said. "I look forward to working closely with our member companies and partners to create new opportunities and expand our influence in both markets."

KGCCI Chairman Park Hyun-nam welcomed her appointment, emphasizing that her extensive experience and strategic vision would be instrumental in deepening Korea-Germany relations. "She will spearhead innovation and provide strong support to our member companies as they navigate an increasingly dynamic business landscape," Park said.

Founded in 1981, KGCCI is the second-largest foreign chamber of commerce in Korea, representing approximately 500 member companies.

It serves as a key communication platform for businesses from both countries, facilitating market entry, business expansion and bilateral trade cooperation.

KGCCI operates under its parent organization, the Association of German Chambers of Commerce and Industry, which oversees 79 regional chambers in Germany and represents around 3.6 million member companies.

By Kim Hae-yeon (hykim@heraldcorp.com)