09 Oct Finance Internships Compared: South Korea vs Japan vs Singapore
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If you’re a finance student planning to boost your career with international internship experience, Asia is one of the best regions to explore. Opportunities in Tokyo, Seoul, and Singapore stand out as some of the most competitive and rewarding for young professionals. Each city offers a unique landscape in the industry, which gives you a chance to experience everything from global banking to fintech innovation.
But how do you decide where to go for your finance internship abroad? Let’s compare the three—Korea, Japan, and Singapore—to help you find the best fit!
Why choose a finance internship abroad?
Finance is a global industry. Whether you’re interested in corporate banking, fintech, or accounting, having international exposure will no doubt make you stand out in an increasingly competitive job market.
The benefits of pursuing an international finance internship include:
- Learning how financial systems work in different economies
- Building a professional industry network across borders
- Gaining cultural awareness that employers value
- Exploring opportunities in growing markets like Asia
From accounting internships to finance internships, education abroad can surely shape your long-term career.
Comparing the best cities in Asia for your finance internship abroad
Asia’s finance hubs each offer something different for students seeking industry experience. Singapore leads with its fintech innovation and international business environment. Tokyo stands out for its economic stability and structured corporate culture. Meanwhile, Seoul is fast emerging as a dynamic center for digital finance and startups.
Whichever you’re drawn to, these three cities provide unique opportunities to develop your skills and expand your global network. Let’s dive into each:
Singapore
Singapore consistently ranks as one of the top financial centers in the world. Known for its stability, pro-business environment, and cutting-edge fintech scene, it’s no surprise that a finance internship in Asia-Pacific’s best city is highly sought after.
Why choose Singapore?
- Home to the headquarters of major banks like DBS, UOB, and OCBC
- Strong fintech sector, making it ideal for those interested in digital finance
- English is an official language, making it accessible for international students
- A safe, multicultural city with excellent global connectivity
Internship opportunities in Singapore:
- Corporate finance internships with multinational companies
- Internships in banking and finance
- Roles in fintech startups
If your priority is exposure to global finance and fintech innovation, Singapore is often the stronger choice. Its international business environment and English-speaking workforce make it highly accessible, too.
Japan (Tokyo)
Tokyo remains one of the world’s most influential financial centers. Japan is currently the fourth-largest economy in the world, driven by a powerful manufacturing base and globally recognized industries such as electronics, automotive, and robotics.
Why choose Tokyo?
- Exposure to one of the world’s most stable and export-driven economies
- Opportunities to intern with multinational corporations and financial institutions
- A chance to experience how tradition and precision shape business operations
- Learning opportunities from Japan’s unique corporate culture and work ethic
Internship opportunities in Tokyo:
- Finance internships with multinational or Japanese corporations
- Accounting and auditing internships with global firms
- Exposure to corporate finance in industries like manufacturing and technology
Tokyo is ideal for students interested in experiencing how finance and business operate within a mature, globally connected economy. It’s a city where structure, discipline, and innovation intersect, and offers students valuable insights into how one of the world’s largest economies continues to shape global markets.
South Korea (Seoul)
Seoul is quickly becoming a global finance player, driven by innovation and technology. For students seeking a finance internship in South Korea, this is an exciting time to experience the city’s growth firsthand.
Why choose Seoul?
- Rapidly growing fintech and startup culture
- Major global banks and Korean conglomerates offer opportunities
- Exposure to both corporate finance and tech-driven financial services
- A dynamic culture where technology and business go hand in hand
Internship opportunities in Seoul:
- Finance internships in multinational companies
- Corporate finance internships with leading conglomerates
- Internships in commercial banks and investment firms
- Finance internships in fintech startups
Seoul is truly very exciting for those interested in fintech, innovation, and exposure to a rapidly developing financial landscape!
Remote finance internships
If traveling abroad is not an option, that’s totally okay—you can always also explore remote finance internships! These allow you to work with companies in Tokyo, Seoul, or Singapore from anywhere in the world. It’s a way to gain international experience but without the travel costs.
Ready to take your first step into the global finance world?
Whether you choose a finance internship in Singapore, Tokyo, or Seoul, each destination offers incredible opportunities to grow your skills, gain real-world industry experience, and build a truly global career. You’ll develop cultural adaptability, expand your professional network, and gain insights that can set you apart in today’s highly competitive finance industry.
With Absolute Internship, you’ll get more than just an internship. Our international internship programs include guaranteed internships in your city of choice, high-end student housing, 24/7 onsite support, visa and travel assistance, and unforgettable cultural experiences across Asia.
Apply today for our Finance programs in Singapore, Tokyo, or Seoul and secure your place in one of the most exciting financial markets in the world!
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