Mercedes-Benz Chairman: "South Korea Is a Truly Important Market... I Will Visit in November" [IAA 2025]

Expected to Discuss Cooperation with Local Companies
"South Korean Customers Are Highly Skilled in Technology"

Ola Kallenius, Chairman of Mercedes-Benz, will visit South Korea in November. This will be his first visit in two years since August 2023. He is expected to review the South Korean business, which is considered one of the top five markets for Mercedes-Benz sales, and explore potential collaboration with domestic companies.

On the 7th (local time), at the "Pre-Night" event held at the Mercedes-Benz Pavilion in downtown Munich, Germany, Chairman Kallenius stated, "I will visit Korea in November," adding, "We have a lot of customers in Korea, and Korean customers are very strong in technology. Korea is a truly important market for testing new technologies."

During his visit to South Korea in 2023, Kallenius met with Choi Jaewon, Vice Chairman of SK On, to discuss ways to expand cooperation in electric vehicle business areas, including electric vehicle batteries and T Map services.

Additionally, Chairman Kallenius commented on the electrification strategy, saying, "We must create outstanding products, and we also need to make significant investments in charging infrastructure." He added, "Policy-wise, the burden of electric vehicle mandates should be eased, and when these elements come together, we can achieve steady growth."

He continued, "The ultimate goal for every new vehicle Mercedes-Benz introduces is zero carbon emissions," explaining, "We are investing 2 billion euros (approximately 3.25 trillion won) in our European factories to prepare for product launches."

On this day, Mercedes-Benz unveiled "The All-New GLC with EQ Technology," the first fully electric sports utility vehicle (SUV) based on its best-selling GLC model. This model, which will lead the next generation of Mercedes-Benz electrification, is scheduled for release in the first half of next year.

Chairman Kallenius stated, "The All-New GLC marks another milestone in the largest new model launch program in Mercedes-Benz history," adding, "This is more than just introducing a new car; it is about electrifying the brand's best-selling model." He emphasized, "With its bold and new design language, advanced technology, MB.OS operating system, and sophisticated performance, The All-New GLC perfectly harmonizes comfort, dynamism, efficiency, and intelligence."

The GLC is the best-selling model among all Mercedes-Benz vehicles worldwide, and the new GLC is the first model in Mercedes-Benz's next-generation electric vehicle lineup. On this day, all key members of the Mercedes-Benz Group board attended the event, highlighting their high expectations for the new GLC.