05 Jul Summer Internships in Seoul: Getting Your Foot in the Door for a South Korean Internship
In the world of business, it’s all about who you know, right? That’s how the old saying goes, anyway.
But if you’re looking to get your feet wet in that world, the reality is that it can be tough to do so without any experience. Just about every job posting you’ll find says that at least one to three years of experience is required. How do you gain work experience without actually being able to get a job, you might wonder?
If you’re finding yourself trapped in this endless cycle, the answer might be simpler than you think.
One of the best ways to stand out in your job search is to complete an internship abroad. Seoul is a top destination, known for its thriving business culture and vibrant city life.
So how do you get your foot in the door for a summer internship in South Korea? We’ll give you some tips in this post.
How To Get Your Foot in the Door for a Summer Internship in South Korea
Getting an internship might seem like a daunting prospect, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips.
1. Know What You Want
First things first – identify what you’re hoping to get out of an internship. Set some clear goals for yourself and what you want to achieve.
Do you want to build your professional network? Expand your understanding of the Korean language?
Whatever the case may be, you need to put some thought into your goals before you start your internship. It’s not just about narrowing down where you want to work, either – though this is something you’ll also want to consider. Seoul has something for everyone, but is best known for its work in technology, science, and business.
2. Do Your Homework
Once you’ve figured out what you hope to gain out of your internship and where you might want to work (or at least, what industry you might want to work in), it’s time to ramp up your search. Look into companies in Seoul that specialize in the things you’re most excited about.
The beauty of 2024 is that we have the Internet to fall back on for research. It’s very easy to find out more about what a company’s been up to, whether that’s by watching videos, reading market reports, or taking a look at press releases put out by the company.
What kinds of projects is the company working on? What might be expected of an intern? These are both the types of questions you should be asking yourself as you go about your research.
3. Make Some Noise
Now that you know a ton about the company or companies you’re interested in interning for, it’s time to make some noise! You need to show them who you are and why you’re a great fit for their company.
Put together a resume that showcases your skills and everything else that makes you so special. If you’ve worked on interesting projects in the past or have any special talents, be sure to include them.
Then, take the time to put together a cover letter saying how much you’d love to join their team – and why you think you’d be a great fit. The devil is in the details, so be sure to proofread everything carefully, and have someone else read through it for you, too.
4. Talk to Someone
Speaking of which, don’t be afraid to ask some questions before you apply for an internship. Do you have any teachers, friends, or family with insight about what it’s like to live and work in Seoul?
Ask as many questions as you can! They might have tips or might know someone who can introduce you to the right people. Remember – it’s all about who you know.
5. Research the Culture
In addition to researching the company culture at the place where you intend to intern, you may also want to research the culture of the city of Seoul – and of South Korea itself.
Pay attention to Korean culture and etiquette must-knows and faux paus so you can show that you are respectful and willing to adapt.
6. Work On Your Language Skills
While English is commonly spoken in the South Korean workplace, you can show that you’re truly dedicated to the internship – and that you are willing to learn – by improving your language skills in Korean.
Take some classes before you go and practice often – even if your coworkers are speaking English, take advantage of the opportunity and strike up a conversation in Korean whenever you can. Immersion is the best way to learn a new language, so don’t be afraid to fully immerse yourself!
What Are the Most Popular Internships in South Korea?
You can study just about anything you want during your internship in South Korea, from fashion to sustainability and everything in between. However, technology, IT, finance, and business tend to be some of the most common areas for local and international students alike.
Once you’ve chosen what you want to focus on for your internship, it’s time to start booking. Absolute Internship can help. We set students up with hands-on internships all over the world, with Seoul being one of our most popular destinations.
Are you ready to embark on the experience of a lifetime? Summer is calling – and so is Seoul. Trust Absolute Internship to help you get there.
FAQ
Can foreigners intern in South Korea?
Foreigners can indeed intern in South Korea. You’ll need a passport and, depending on how long you stay and where you intend to work, you may also need a visa.
Do interns get paid in South Korea?
In South Korea, interns may or may not receive payment, as it largely depends on the company’s policy and the nature of the internship. Some internships offer stipends or compensation, while others may provide valuable experience without monetary compensation.
What are the best months to apply for summer internships?
Generally, it’s recommended to start applying for summer internships several months in advance, with some industries opening applications as early as fall or winter for the upcoming summer.
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