25 Sep Discovering South Korean Culture: Internship Journey
Stepping into the working world is usually a daunting move for college students as they start to transition from the familiarity of college and a classroom. This step, though not vital, can prove to be extremely useful in the long term of a profession, and might allow future professionals an extreme step up from their peers as they have already got experience. Why not maximize advantages? Pairing a transformative internship, with international travel, can maximize the educational potential of the intern, allowing them to grow as an individual and an expert multi functional experience. Deep dive with us on what you would possibly expect to uncover, culturally, during your internship in South Korea.
Why South Korea?
First off, why should one even decide to intern in South Korea to start with? South Korea has long been considered an epicenter for business, in addition to a worldwide tech hub. They are also known for advancements in electronics, robotics, and telecommunications. Interns in fields comparable to engineering, IT, and digital marketing will gain hands-on experience with all of the newest methodologies here. But these advancements aren’t the one reason for an internship in South Korea. The combination of each old and recent, modern and historic are huge elements to South Korea’s heritage and make it the sweetness that it’s today. From traditional hanbok attire to historical palaces and temples, the country offers a mix of old world and modern charm. Folded into the standard hanok homes, are Seoul’s skyscraper lined skies, allowing eager interns to actually see the contrast, and witness just how far this country has grown. South Korea allows for an adventure in culture while also growing interns background in business in one among the globe’s major centers for economic development.
Social Culture
First off, it is necessary when preparing to live in a foreign country, to study what’s normal and regarded common socially. South Korea is a particularly hospitable and friendly country. Visitors can expect to be greeted warmly here. Locals are sometimes very desirous to share their traditions and culture with newcomers, so no worries in any respect about making friends! Similar to the workplace, there’s a give attention to group friendships and group oriented activities, in addition to a healthy appreciation for nightlife. The nightlife in South Korea, especially in cities like Seoul, is amazingly popular and vibrant. If you’re sufficiently old and interested, consider collaborating on this scene and utilizing it to fulfill more locals!
Pro-tip: Gift giving is a big a part of social culture in South Korea and is a standard way of showing gratitude and maintaining social bonds. Before you permit your summer internship in South Korea, ensure to present something small to those that had an amazing impact on you. Not only will they adore it, but they may also deeply appreciate your adherence to their social cues and culture.
Workplace Culture
Your internship in South Korea will likely be a masterclass on really involving yourself in South Korean culture. You’ll notice that they hold hierarchy and collaboration in a better regard than we do within the West. Seniority is given a high value, in addition to showing respect for seniority. Junior employees are expected to indicate their superiors that they hold their utmost regard. Both the best way you speak and act as an intern can greatly convey this level of respect. Your ability to mind your manners within the workplace will greatly impact your performance and the way you might be viewed by leadership. No cursing or swearing here! While the workplace culture within the West has relaxed in past years, on your internship in South Korea it’s imperative that you simply act as professionally as possible. Make sure to decorate professionally as well, since South Koreans generally are quite formal within the workplace.
It’s also necessary to notice that unity is a central belief amongst South Korea workplaces. As an intern you might be not only a cog within the wheel. Instead, you’re going to be on a team that values shared efforts and pulling your individual weight for the nice of all. Unlike the West, South Koreans don’t attempt to stand out as a person as much as they fight to homogenize with the general group. Additionally, with all the teamwork mentality, you might be more likely to spend a while outside of labor along with your colleagues. Work related social events and gatherings are common. This will be an amazing excuse to learn more about South Korean culture during your internship, by getting the locals to indicate you what they do for fun!
Overall Country Culture
South Korea is a hodgepodge of each modern and traditional beauty, with its bustling cities like Seoul, and its traditional architecture in places like Bukchon Hanok Village. This dynamic will prove to be extremely inspiring as you witness the mashup of the 2. A deeply creative country, South Korea has all styles of murals, exhibits and even community based events comparable to festivals. Cherry Blossoms arrive in Spring and with them, they convey many celebrations thanking the planet for one more winter passed. The Lotus Lantern Festival is one other crowd favorite that actually displays the essence of South Korean life. As an intern, you must participate in and witness these festivities as you’ll forge connections with those around you, in addition to deepen your individual cultural understanding.
The personal journey you might be sure to embark on during your internship in South Korea could have a lifelong impact on each your profession, and your person. By selecting South Korea as your playground for growth, you’ll be immersed in a gorgeous mixture of tradition, innovation, cuisine, art, and connection to those around you. With its mix of recent and old, you’ll be an lively participant within the clashing together of times, allowing you to realize cross-cultural understanding. Relax, explore, and permit yourself to actually immerse into the colourful and exciting culture unfolding around you each within the office and out on the road. You are certain to like every moment.
