Kia Corporation Launches Fourth Cohort of ‘Harmonium’

Kia Corporation has officially launched the fourth cohort of its ‘Harmonium Education Program’, aimed at fostering career paths for multicultural youth and North Korean defectors. The announcement was made during 'Harmony Day' held at Mondrian Seoul Itaewon, where the completion ceremony for the third cohort was also celebrated.

The Harmonium program, initiated in 2024, provides specialized training in fields such as IT, video production, food and beverage, and landscaping. This year, the program has expanded to include a curriculum specifically designed for North Korean defectors.

Participants benefit from hands-on work experience and internships linked to social ventures, along with employment seminars led by Kia employees. The previous cohort saw all participants successfully complete the program, with many securing jobs in IT and receiving scholarships for their achievements.

The fourth cohort will support 41 participants, comprising 25 multicultural youth and 16 North Korean defectors, running from October to February next year. Lee Duk-hyun, head of Kia's Sustainability Management Office, emphasized the importance of empowering youth from diverse backgrounds to contribute to society.