I was driven by Korea’s reputation as a global powerhouse in innovation and consumer tech. Having an interest in marketing, I wanted to immerse myself in a market where branding is deeply intertwined with cultural trends. The opportunity to witness how korean startups scale at events like NextRise and the opportunity to experience a different work environment that I was personally interested in was a major draw, as I wanted to see the "behind-the-scenes" of their rapid business evolution.
It was a transformative masterclass in adaptability and professional grit. Beyond the technical marketing skills I gained, navigating a high-speed corporate culture in Seoul taught me how to communicate effectively across language barriers. Achieving a Top 60 placement in the Slingshot SWITCH competition during this time was a personal highlight, proving that I could deliver high-level results in a foreign, competitive environment.
Professionally, this internship bridged the gap between the marketing theories I studied at SMU and real-world execution in an MNC context. It sharpened my strategic thinking and gave me a tangible edge in understanding cross-border business operations. Academically, it added a global layer to my SMU education, allowing me to bring a more nuanced, international perspective to my future classroom discussions and projects.
Asia is the trailblazer of global growth. For a Singaporean student, understanding our neighbors especially a trendsetter like Korea is a strategic career move.
Don't be afraid of the "cultural wall". Whether it's the language or the different working style, lean into the discomfort. Your film camera is a great icebreaker, too and document your journey!
My biggest tip: Be proactive. In Asian corporate cultures, showing initiative and a willingness to learn goes much further than just "doing the job". it will also alter your experience with living in foreign land, immersing in the true warmth of the locals
