The program aims to train skilled AI engineers in the mobility sector through hands-on experience and direct hiring opportunities.
Category: Business
Hyundai Motor Company (현대자동차) and Kia (기아) have announced the launch of the eighth session of their Softeer Bootcamp, a recruitment-linked training program focused on software development, which will run from July 1 to August 31, 2026. The application period for prospective participants began on April 22 and will continue until May 11 at 2 PM. This revamped program is now centered around artificial intelligence (AI), aligning with the growing trend of AI transformation in the mobility industry.
The Softeer Bootcamp, a combination of "software" and "engineer," signifies the companies' commitment to nurturing talent in the vehicle software sector. This initiative marks a shift in the training approach, emphasizing AI not just in theory but also in practical applications, thereby preparing participants for immediate integration into the workforce.
During the bootcamp, participants will engage in a rigorous curriculum that incorporates AI tools throughout their projects. The program's focus areas include backend development, data engineering and architecture, and service planning. Candidates eligible for application must be graduates or expected graduates from four-year universities, either domestically or internationally, between February 2026 and February 2027.
The selection process involves an online assessment, personality tests, and interviews to evaluate candidates' basic competencies and job-related knowledge. Successful applicants will experience a blend of theoretical instruction and team-based projects, simulating real-world development processes. They will also benefit from one-on-one mentoring sessions with industry professionals, enhancing their practical skills.
According to Jin Eun-sook (진은숙), head of the ICT division at Hyundai and Kia, the Softeer Bootcamp is not just about filling positions but is aimed at fostering a new generation of AI engineers who can drive innovation in the mobility service ecosystem. "By aligning our selection process and training programs with the latest trends, we aim to fulfill our social responsibility through the cultivation of high-quality talent," she stated.
Since its inception in 2023, the Softeer Bootcamp has successfully trained approximately 500 students across seven sessions. Graduates have found opportunities in various software roles, including positions at Hyundai and Kia, thereby contributing to a broader talent pool in the industry. This initiative reflects the companies' strategic focus on securing capable professionals to lead the charge in mobility service innovation.
The shift toward AI-driven education programs like the Softeer Bootcamp is indicative of a larger trend across the automotive industry, particularly in East Asia, where countries like Japan and China are also investing heavily in AI technologies. As global competition intensifies, South Korea's automotive giants are positioning themselves to keep pace and to lead in the development of smart mobility solutions.
This proactive approach to talent development is expected to strengthen Hyundai and Kia's competitive edge in the international market, especially as they expand their presence in AI-integrated vehicles and services. The emphasis on practical, hands-on experience in AI applications prepares new engineers to meet the demands of a rapidly changing industry, ensuring that South Korea remains at the forefront of automotive innovation.
As the application deadline approaches, interested candidates are encouraged to apply through the official website. The bootcamp serves as a pathway to employment and as a platform for shaping the future of mobility services.