Internships in South Korea

Set goals

Setting clear goals will help you make the most of your internship in South Korea. Here are a few basics to start with:

• Define the objectives that matter to you and decide what you aim to achieve—skills development, cultural immersion, or beyond.
• Find a piece or pieces of South Korean culture you connect with to deepen your experience outside of the internship.
• Become a more reliable peer and worker. Take the time to network and make connections.

Understand the benefits

• Warmth of the locals. Notoriously known as one of the most friendly and welcoming Asian countries, you’ll have no trouble acclimating.
• Super fast internet speeds everywhere. Wherever you head in the cities you can most likely connect! Whether you need directions or turn in that last-minute project, it’s all possible.
• Low crime rates. You don’t have to worry too much about watching your step in South Korea! Keeping your wits about you is always a good idea, especially in cities and tourist-y places.

Things to know

Before heading to South Korea there are a few major things to know.

• Learning the basics - Many South Korean websites are not indexed by search engines, and when they are, they're often in Korean. Learning basic Korean can be valuable, especially if you’re hoping to secure a job beyond your internship.
• Cultural sensitivity - Always take your shoes off when entering residences, temples, or guest houses. Greet others with a short bow, and when shaking hands, do so softly using both hands to show respect.
• Cost of living - The cost of living in South Korea is relatively affordable, with budget-friendly prices for transportation and food, making it easier to manage day-to-day expenses.
• Housing - Common options include host families, living alone, apartments, and villas. If accommodations aren’t provided, expect to spend around $715 per month in city centers (higher in the capital) and about $450 in less populated areas.
• Logistics - Be prepared to manage your own transportation, housing, and other essentials if they’re not covered. Ensure all key paperwork like visas, passports, health insurance, and transit visas for layovers is in order.

When deciding on a location, there are plenty of considerations to take in! Figure out what field you’d like to pursue and let that help narrow down the choice. A few popular choices:

Seoul

You will certainly find a multitude of internships in South Korea’s capital and largest city, Seoul. The capital will be your best bet if you’re looking to get into the computer and tech industries. These sectors are growing fast and start-ups in Seoul are always looking for interns to help them as they expand. Many of the big players in the latter fields are located in Seoul too, including Google. If you’re looking into graphic design, business, marketing, or programming, Seoul is where you want to be.

Busan

For beach lovers, the city of Busan is a great choice as it is located near Haeundae Beach, which is one of the most well-known beaches in the country. In Busan, you can typically find internships in hospitality, banking, and tourism.

Jeonju

With programs that offer immersive experiences in various fields, the opportunities in Jeonju are wide open. Engage in social enterprises, NGOs, and other sectors available. These internships provide hands-on experience and a chance to integrate into Korean work culture, enhancing both personal and professional growth.

Discover a wide range of internships in South Korea, offering opportunities in diverse sectors. Some popular ones are:

Education

Engage in teaching internships, the most common in South Korea, particularly in rural areas. Gain valuable experience in afterschool programs and classroom settings, enhancing your teaching skills while immersing yourself in Korean culture and education systems​.

Chemical engineering

Internships in engineering are abundant in South Korea's populous regions. These roles provide hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology and innovative projects, making it an excellent choice for those looking to advance their technical skills and work with leading companies in the industry​. The other specialties like mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering

Business and Government

Explore business and government internships in South Korea, where you'll engage in dynamic environments, contribute to policy-making, and develop a strong understanding of international business practices. This field is ideal for those looking to expand their professional network and gain insights into global markets​.

Taking the first step toward an internship in South Korea can feel both thrilling and overwhelming. But with a bit of guidance and the right resources, you’ll be well on your way to an incredible experience.

1. Get matched

If you’re ready, visit our Online Advisor to get matched with internships right now! Results will be emailed to you.

2. Choose a program

With a MyGoAbroad account, you can compare any leads side-by-side.

If you don’t have one, sign up for a MyGoAbroad account here.

3. Choose how long to stay

South Korea offers plenty of opportunities for internships and times to go throughout the year. Choose what works best for your schedule to get the most out of it!

• Summer. A very popular time for teaching internships due to summer camps and programs. Alternatively, it’s also a great time for engineering roles as construction projects peak.
• Fall. An excellent time for government and politics internships with many events and initiatives starting in the season. The mild weather is perfect for exploring the country.
• Winter. A less common but still valuable option—especially for those interested in technology sectors that operate year-round. Winter internships offer a unique cultural experience during the festive season​
• Spring. It’s ideal for business internships as many companies start new projects. The weather is pleasant, making it a great time for outdoor activities and cultural festivals.

4. Funding & scholarships

If you need or are interested in financial support look no further. Just fill out our scholarship and deals application and see what’s waiting!

5. Apply

To apply, visit the program page of your selected internship and click "Inquire here" or "Apply Now." Once you've submitted your application, a program coordinator will reach out to guide you through the next steps.

6. Get your essentials

It’s now time to apply for your passport and visa, book your flight, and buy travel insurance after you’ve found the best internship program for you!