Q. Can you please introduce yourself?

My name is Alexander Anthony, but you can call me Alex. I am a business student from Universitas Prasetiya Mulya in Indonesia. I have a strong passion for cultural exchange, public speaking, and promoting global awareness. Currently, I am an intern at VANK, where I contribute to projects that introduce Korean history, culture, and tourism to the world.

Q. What aspect of Korean history / culture would you like to learn while being at intern at VANK? What aspect of Korean history / culture did you learn?

Before joining VANK, I was particularly interested in learning about Korea’s diplomatic history and how it shaped the country’s global identity. I wanted to understand how Korea overcame challenges in the past and how it promotes its heritage today.

During my 47 days here, I have gained a much deeper understanding of Korean culture and society beyond what I initially expected. I have learned not just about historical sites like Dondeokjeon Hall in Deoksugung Palace, which represents Korea’s modernization efforts, but also about Hangeul, the Korean writing system. Understanding the story behind Hangeul’s creation by King Sejong the Great gave me new insight into Korea’s commitment to education and inclusivity. Hangeul was designed to be easy to learn so that common people could read and write, and this reflects Korea’s strong cultural value of knowledge accessibility.

Additionally, my work on petitions related to Korea has allowed me to explore Korea’s soft power strategies and global influence. One of my key contributions involved petitions promoting K-Drama and K-Movie tourism trails, which highlighted how Korea’s entertainment industry plays a role in increasing cultural appreciation and attracting visitors worldwide. Through this, I realized the power of cultural storytelling in shaping Korea’s image globally.

Being in Korea for over a month has also helped me better understand Korean society, from its work ethic and collectivist mindset to its deep respect for tradition and innovation. Living here, interacting with locals, and working at VANK has shown me how history, language, and cultural diplomacy all intertwine in shaping Korea’s identity on the global stage.

Q. What aspect of your country’s history/culture would you like to tell people in Korea and around the world while being an intern at VANK?

As an Indonesian, I want to introduce the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Indonesia, from batik and wayang kulit (shadow puppetry) to our deep-rooted traditions in music, dance, and storytelling. Indonesia is an archipelago with more than 17,000 islands and over 300 ethnic groups, each with its own unique customs and traditions. I believe that sharing this diversity can help others appreciate how Indonesia, like Korea, balances modernization while preserving its cultural identity.

Beyond cultural heritage, I also want to share my perspective as an Indonesian and how we, as a society, perceive other countries—especially Korea. Indonesia has a high level of admiration for Korea, not just because of K-Pop and K-Dramas, but also due to Korea’s rapid economic growth, strong national identity, and global influence. Many Indonesians see Korea as an inspiring example of a country that successfully modernized while still holding onto its traditions.

At the same time, I think it’s important to talk about how Indonesians interpret global cultures. We are a very open-minded and social people who love learning about other cultures, but sometimes, our understanding is shaped primarily by pop culture and media. This is why I believe cultural diplomacy efforts—like what VANK is doing—are crucial in helping people gain a deeper and more accurate understanding of a country beyond just entertainment and trends.

Through my time at VANK, I hope to bridge cultural perspectives between Indonesia and Korea, fostering more meaningful cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

Q. How did you get interested in Korea?

My interest in Korea started with its cultural influence, particularly through K-Dramas, K-Movies, and K-Pop, which introduced me to the country’s modern entertainment and creative industries. As I became more exposed to Korean media, I started noticing how much effort Korea puts into storytelling, visual aesthetics, and world-building, which made me curious about the history and culture behind it.

However, my fascination with Korea truly deepened when I started learning about its history, traditions, and national identity. I was especially intrigued by how Korea overcame historical hardships and rebuilt itself into a globally influential country. Unlike many other nations, Korea has managed to preserve its cultural roots while rapidly modernizing, which I found incredibly inspiring. I also became interested in how Korea promotes its identity on a global scale—whether through Hangeul, historical sites, traditional arts, or diplomacy—to ensure that its story is told accurately to the world.

Beyond history and culture, I also became deeply interested in how Korea functions as a country—from its governance and economic development to its societal values and work ethics. I wanted to understand how Korean people view things, make decisions, and approach work and innovation. Korea is known for its strong sense of discipline, efficiency, and teamwork, and I was eager to learn how these values shape Korean society and contribute to its success.

Another aspect that caught my attention was Korea’s strong sense of unity and resilience. The way Korean society values hard work, perseverance, and collective progress reflects deeply in its cultural and economic achievements. From historical struggles to technological advancements, Korea has shown the world how a nation can transform itself while holding onto its heritage.

This curiosity led me to discover VANK, an organization dedicated to cultural diplomacy and correcting misinformation about Korea. Through this internship, I was able to experience Korea beyond what is portrayed in pop culture and gain firsthand insight into its rich history, diverse cultural heritage, diplomatic efforts, and work culture. I learned that Korea is not just aboutentertainment but also about strong national identity, historical preservation, and global influence.

My time at VANK has further deepened my appreciation for Korea and strengthened my passion for understanding cultures beyond the surface level. This experience has inspired me to explore how cultural diplomacy can shape international relations and how countries can use history, heritage, and work culture as tools for global engagement.

Q. How did you get to do an internship at VANK?

I got this opportunity through a rigorous interview process conducted by AIESEC, an international youth organization that connects students to global exchange and internship programs. Through AIESEC, I was introduced to the VANK internship program, which aligned perfectly with my interests in cultural diplomacy and international relations.

To prepare for the interview, I studied and learned about VANK’s mission, Korea’s diplomatic efforts, and cultural promotion strategies. This helped me showcase my understanding of global issues and my passion for bridging cultures. After passing the interview, I joined the VANK internship program, where we underwent an onboarding process to learn more about our role in promoting Korea’s history, culture, and international presence.

This internship has been an incredible opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects while also deepening my knowledge about Korea’s cultural diplomacy and soft power strategies.

Q. Tell us about what you did while working at VANK.

During my 47 days at VANK, I worked on several projects focused on promoting Korean history and cultural heritage internationally, particularly in Indonesia. One of my key tasks was researching how to effectively promote Deoksugung Palace to an international audience, ensuring that its historical and cultural significance is properly understood, especially by Indonesians. We explored ways to highlight its role in Korea’s modernization and diplomacy, making it more appealing to global audiences.

Additionally, we conducted research on Korean artifacts, particularly those located outside of Korea. This research aimed to better understand the significance of these historical artifacts and how they are perceived internationally. This was an important task, as cultural artifacts hold deep historical and national value, and learning how they are presented abroad helps in developing strategies to strengthen Korea’s cultural identity.

Another unique experience was when we had the opportunity to share our perspective as Indonesians about Taekkyeon, Korea’s traditional martial art, during a session with the Taekkyeon Committee. This discussion was insightful as we exchanged thoughts on how martial arts contribute to cultural identity and how both Korea and Indonesia have unique ways of preserving traditional practices while adapting to modern times.

Beyond this, we worked on several petitions aimed at promoting Korea’s culture and tourism, including:
● K-Drama and K-Movie tourism trails, highlighting how Korean entertainment influences tourism and encourages fans worldwide to visit filming locations.
● Petitions related to Hangeul and its global influence, emphasizing its historical
significance and its role in spreading Korean culture internationally.

Additionally, we had a visit from a committee specializing in Korean cultural heritage and overseas artifacts, where we were able to engage in discussions about the importance of preserving Korean historical artifacts globally. This was a valuable moment as we were able to contribute our perspectives as foreign interns, providing insights into how Korean culture and history are perceived from an international viewpoint.

Throughout this internship, I also had the invaluable experience of working in Korea and learning about its work ethic. Being here for 47 days allowed me to experience firsthand how Korean professionals approach teamwork, discipline, and efficiency. I gained a deeper understanding of Korea’s strong work culture and dedication to excellence, which plays a crucial role in its success in many industries.

Overall, this internship provided me with the opportunity to actively contribute to meaningful projects while immersing myself in Korean culture, history, and work ethics.

Q. Are there any moments you remember the most while working at VANK?

One of the most memorable moments during my internship was the day we visited Deoksugung Palace for the MOU signing ceremony. It was a special experience because we not only got to witness an important collaboration between VANK and the Royal Palaces and Tombs Center, but we also had the chance to share our perspective as Indonesians on how to promote Korea’s cultural heritage internationally.

What made the experience even more meaningful was that we wore batik, Indonesia’s
traditional clothing, as a way to represent our own culture while participating in a significant event for Korea. It was a proud moment because it symbolized the cultural exchange between Indonesia and Korea, showing how two nations with rich histories can come together to support heritage promotion.

Walking through Deoksugung Palace, seeing its historical significance firsthand, and
participating in discussions about its international promotion was truly an eye-opening
experience. It reinforced the importance of preserving historical sites and ensuring that they are presented accurately to the global audience.

Another moment that stood out to me was working on petitions related to Hangeul. Learning more about the history and global influence of Hangeul made me appreciate its uniqueness as a writing system. Our petitions focused on spreading awareness about how Hangeul was created to be accessible and inclusive, ensuring literacy for all people. Through this, I realized how language can play a crucial role in shaping a nation’s cultural identity and global presence.

Beyond the work itself, one of the most unexpected and heartwarming parts of my internship was how kind and welcoming everyone at VANK was. At first, I thought I would just be like any other foreign intern, but from the very beginning, the atmosphere was incredibly warm and inclusive. I never felt like an outsider—they treated me with so much kindness, and it made my experience even more special.

We didn’t just connect at work; we also had opportunities to experience life in Korea outside of the office. One of the best memories was when we visited an Aquarium Park in Seoul, which was a really fun experience. The team also gave us amazing recommendations on places to visit, helping us explore Seoul in a way we wouldn’t have been able to on our own.

We also had meaningful cultural exchanges, where we shared stories about our respective cultures, traditions, and personal experiences. It was fascinating to see both the differences and similarities between Korea and Indonesia, and these conversations gave me a newfound appreciation for both cultures.

Overall, working at VANK was not just about the projects—it was about the people, the
experiences, and the cultural connections. It was a fun, rewarding, and unforgettable time, and I am truly grateful for the kindness, friendship, and memories I made along the way.

Q. What do you plan to do after finishing the internship at VANK? What is your dream?

After finishing my internship at VANK, I will continue to reach for my dream of becoming an entrepreneur. I have always been passionate about building something meaningful, and this experience has further strengthened my global perspective—something that will be invaluable in my journey ahead.

Through the VANK internship program, I have learned a lot, especially on an international scale. I have gained insight into how Korea functions, from its work ethics to its approach in cultural diplomacy. I also discovered how diverse Korea is, with its rich history and culture, which has given me a deeper appreciation for how nations preserve and promote their heritage on a global stage.

Beyond knowledge, this experience has helped me become a better person by developing both my soft and hard skills. From communication, teamwork, and cultural awareness to research, strategic thinking, and project management, everything I have learned here will surely help me in my future endeavors.

This internship has been an invaluable experience that has broadened my horizons, and I am excited to apply everything I have learned as I work towards my dream of becoming a successful entrepreneur with a global mindset.

Q. What would you like to say to foreign friends that are thinking of applying for an internship at VANK?

Being at VANK has been an incredible and eye-opening opportunity for me. It’s truly a
once-in-a-lifetime experience where you not only gain knowledge but also develop skills, meet amazing people, and immerse yourself in Korea’s culture and history in a way that no ordinary internship can offer.

If you’re thinking of applying, I highly encourage you to go for it. But also, make sure to prepare well for the interview because once you get accepted, the experience will be incredibly rewarding. You’ll have the chance to engage in meaningful projects, contribute to cultural diplomacy, and see firsthand how Korea promotes its heritage internationally.

One of the biggest takeaways from my time at VANK was understanding how Korea
functions—not just in terms of history and culture, but also in its work ethics, societal values, and global influence. The way Korea blends tradition with modernity, discipline with creativity, and local identity with international engagement is truly inspiring. Working here has helped me develop both soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, as well as hard skills like research and strategic thinking.

Beyond the work itself, what makes this internship truly special is the people you meet. The VANK team is incredibly supportive, and you’ll get to exchange ideas, share perspectives, and learn from one another in a way that enriches your global outlook. The weekly meetings and brainstorming sessions were some of the most enjoyable and valuable parts of my experience because they allowed us to collaborate, refine our ideas, and grow as a team.

So if you’re looking for an internship that is unique, insightful, and filled with hands-on
experience in cultural diplomacy, then VANK is the perfect place for you. Be open-minded, proactive, and ready to learn, because this internship will give you an entirely new perspective on Korea, cultural heritage, and international engagement.

In the end, I can confidently say that my time at VANK has changed the way I see cultural diplomacy and international cooperation, and I will always be grateful for the experience and the unforgettable memories I made here. If you get the chance to be part of this program, embrace every moment of it—you won’t regret it!

Q. Lastly, what would you like to say to VANK?

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to VANK for this incredible experience. Thank you for creating a platform where young people can actively contribute to cultural diplomacy and make a meaningful impact in promoting Korea’s history, culture, and tourism worldwide.

This internship was not only educational but also incredibly fun. I had the chance to meet amazing people, exchange perspectives, and learn from one another, which made the experience even more valuable. Whether it was working on petitions, discussing cultural topics, or participating in meetings, every moment was an opportunity to grow and connect with inspiring individuals.

The past 47 days have been an unforgettable journey, filled with new knowledge, teamwork, and cultural exchange. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of VANK and for the unforgettable stories we created together.

Thank you, VANK, for this wonderful experience—I will always carry these memories with me!

Q. Can you please introduce yourself?

My name is Monica Abigail Isak,or you can call me Mone. I’m from the beautiful
archipelago of Indonesia. I come from a country that’s known for its rich culture,
diverse traditions, and breathtaking landscapes. From the bustling streets of Jakarta
to the peaceful beaches of Bali. I’m currently a fourth year business student at
Universitas Prasetiya Mulya with a strong passion for continuous learning and
growth. I would describe myself as an extroverted and highly motivated individual
who thrives on new challenges and opportunities. I adapt quickly to new
environments, and I have a keen interest in problem-solving, especially when it
comes to finding creative and effective solutions.

Q. What aspect of Korean history / culture would you like to learn while being at intern at VANK? What aspect of Korean history / culture did you learn?

Studying or working abroad have always been my dream. Since I was 13 years old, I
have been deeply fascinated by Korea’s rich history and cultural heritage. I see the
VANK project as the perfect opportunity to bridge my passion for Korean culture with
my desire to contribute to promoting it to a global audience. During my internship at
VANK, I would love to learn more about various aspects of Korean history and culture
that fascinate me. I’m particularly amazed by the palaces in Korea, there are so
many to visit, and I’m curious to know more about their historical significance. The
palaces are not only architectural masterpieces but also tell the story of Korea’s long
and complex history. I’ve visited a few, and each one offers a glimpse into the
traditions, values, and events that shaped the country. I would love to learn more
about the role these palaces played in Korean society and how they contributed to
the development of the nation.

I also find it incredibly impressive how Korea has developed over time. Despite being
one of the poorest countries in the past, Korea has made such significant progress.
I’m interested in learning how they managed to overcome that difficult phase and
what strategies they used to grow into the powerful nation they are today.

Another thing that fascinates me is how safe Korea is for foreigners. Even though the
people might not always seem very welcoming, you can leave your bag outside, walk
alone at night without fear, and even use self-service photo booths without needing
any attendants. I believe this resembles the good manners, attitude, and character of
the Korean people. As an Indonesian, I feel there is much we can learn from their
culture in terms of respect and behavior.

Another aspect of Korean culture that I find fascinating is Korean cuisine. Coming
from Indonesia, where food is often rich and heavily spiced, I was concerned that I
might not enjoy the “bland” Korean flavors. However, I’ve found that Korean food is
delicious and surprisingly healthy. The use of fresh ingredients and minimal reliance
on artificial additives, such as MSG, is something I admire. I’ve noticed that Korea
has a low obesity rate compared to Indonesia, and I believe this is partly due to the
healthy eating habits here. In contrast, Indonesian cuisine often relies on oil, coconut
milk, and fried foods, which can contribute to higher risks of cholesterol, heart
disease, and other health issues.

During my internship at VANK, I learned a lot about the importance of culture for a
country and how it helps shape its global image. I met many people from different
backgrounds, which gave me new perspectives and helped me understand
international cooperation better. I also experienced the Korean working environment,
learning how meetings and presentations are done. As a business student, this was
very useful because it gave me important knowledge about business etiquette and
negotiation.

Additionally, I deepened my understanding of Korean history and traditions,
particularly the historical significance of palaces and the traditional martial art of
Taekkyeon. My research skills improved significantly as I worked on my first petition
at VANK, requiring me to analyze and compile information from hundreds of journals
and websites. This experience taught me the difference between writing a structured
article and drafting a persuasive petition. Furthermore, I gained more knowledge
about Korean culture and language, which not only enriched my experience but also
helped me develop a deeper appreciation for Korea’s heritage. Overall, my time at
VANK was an invaluable learning experience that expanded my knowledge,
improved my skills, and strengthened my ability to engage in cultural diplomacy.

Q. What aspect of your country’s history / culture would you like to tell people in Korea and around the world while being an intern at VANK?

One of the things I would love to share is the richness of Indonesian culture,
especially from Sabang to Merauke. Each region has its own unique traditions, from
traditional dances to music, food, and arts. For example, we have many traditional
dances, each with its own purpose, meaning, and history background. The same
goes for our music and instruments, like the gamelan in Java, which plays an
important role in ceremonies and celebrations. All of these elements tell a story about
our values and the way of how we live our lives.

Another thing I want to share about Indonesia is how friendly and warm our people
are. Indonesians are known for their hospitality and kindness. Even if we don’t know
someone, it’s common to smile or greet them. This sense of community are
something that I believe can be valuable for people around the world to learn. While
Korea tends to be more individualistic, Indonesia places a strong emphasis on caring
for one another, even strangers. This sense of togetherness is one of the things that
has helped us stay united despite our diversity.

Beyond culture, Indonesia is also known for its breathtaking landscapes. I’m sure
people around the world have heard of popular destinations like Bali, Lombok, and
Nusa Penida. These places are truly mesmerizing, with their clear waters, beaches,
and mountains. I’ve been to these places many times, but every time I visit, I am still
fascinated by the natural beauty that surrounds us. Whether it’s the iconic terraced
rice fields in Bali or the cliffs in Nusa Penida, the landscapes in Indonesia are simply
unforgettable.

By sharing these things, I hope to help people better understand Indonesia’s positive
role in the world. I want to show that Indonesia has a lot of culture, history, and
landscape. By focusing on its rich heritage,I believe we can help other countries see
Indonesia as a warm country with a lot of culture, good values, and chances to work
together.

Q. How did you get interested in Korea?

My interest in Korea began when I was in eighth grade, during the global rise of
K-pop. At that time, K-pop was booming, and its influence quickly spread worldwide.
This sparked my curiosity about Korea, leading me to take private Korean language
lessons. Unfortunately, due to my busy school schedule, I could only continue the
lessons for two months. However, my interest never faded. I taught myself how to
read Hangul and immersed myself in Korean dramas, which deepened my
admiration for Korea. Through these dramas, I fell in love with various aspects of the
country such as its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine.

My family and I also frequently dined at Korean restaurants, enjoying the authentic
flavors that made Korean food so special. As I entered high school, my passion for
Korea grew even stronger, especially through my love for K-pop groups like ASTRO
and SEVENTEEN. This fueled my dream of studying in Korea. However, due to the
COVID-19 pandemic, my plans were disrupted, and I ultimately pursued my studies
in Indonesia. Over time, I also became aware of Korea’s highly competitive academic
and job environment. Realizing the challenges of studying and working there, I
gradually let go of my initial dream. Despite this, my love for Korea remains strong,
and I continue to explore its culture in different ways.

Q. How did you get to do an internship at VANK?

First of all, I have always had a strong desire to gain experience abroad. Because of
this, I frequently search for opportunities related to student exchanges, AIESEC
programs, and other international experiences. While looking for available programs,
I came across an internship opportunity at VANK through the AIESEC website. I
applied for the project through AIESEC, and the rest of the process was guided by
AIESEC representatives. Before applying, I thoroughly researched each available
project to find one that best suited my interests and goals. Among all the options,
VANK stood out to me as an exciting opportunity.

The chance to collaborate with VANK aligns perfectly with my passion for fostering
cross-cultural understanding and building global partnerships, which directly
connects with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 17. As a business student, I
recognize the importance of connecting with people from different cultural
backgrounds, especially in the global business environment. In today’s
interconnected world, successful businesses must establish relationships across
borders and develop strong intercultural communication skills. That is why I chose to
apply for the VANK project.

Q. Tell us about what you did while working at VANK.

Working at VANK felt like a professional office experience. Each intern had their own
workspace, and our main weekly task was to create a petition on a specific topic and
present our findings at the end of the week to all members. This helped improve my
research, presentation, and public speaking skills.

Besides our individual tasks, we also worked on external projects in collaboration
with other organizations. For example, this year, VANK partnered with the Royal
Palaces and Tombs Center, specifically in Deoksugung Palace. As interns, we had the incredible opportunity to attend meetings related to this project and contribute ideas from an international perspective. Being able to share my thoughts from an Indonesian viewpoint in a professional setting was a valuable and
memorable experience.

Q. Are there any moments you remember the most while working at VANK?

One of the most unforgettable moments was my first weekly presentation in front of
all the members. I felt a mix of nervousness and excitement because it was my first
time presenting my work at VANK. However, my presentation was well received by
my colleagues and supervisors, which gave me a huge sense of accomplishment
and confidence. The supportive atmosphere at VANK made me feel valued and
motivated to keep improving.

Besides that, I had many other special experiences. One time, we visited
Deoksugung Palace for a collaboration with the Royal Palaces and Tombs
Management. I had the opportunity to share my ideas as an Indonesian at a big
meeting table, which was an interesting and meaningful experience. After work, my
mentor, Mr. Terry, often took us to recommended places like Lotte World Aquarium or
good restaurants, allowing us to explore new atmospheres. I also really enjoyed our
daily lunches together, where we could casually talk and share insights about Korea
and Indonesia.

My superior, Mr. Park, always told me that Koreans have warm and kind hearts, and I
truly experienced this myself. One day, my co-workers and I visited a flower café, and
because we were Indonesian, the owner kindly gave us a bunch of snacks. It was
such a sweet and thoughtful gesture. Every moment at VANK was meaningful, and
each experience became a valuable lesson and memory for me.

Q. What do you plan to do after finishing the internship at VANK? What is your dream?

After completing my internship at VANK, I will continue my studies at university and
focus on my final business project. I also plan to apply for an internship at a major
global company, such as PwC, Unilever, or L’Oréal, to gain more experience in a
professional and multinational environment.

In the long run, my goal is to start my own business that combines innovation with
sustainability to create a positive impact on both society and the environment.
However, beyond business, my ultimate dream is to become a successful woman
who can inspire and motivate others. I hope to share my experiences and knowledge
through public speaking or writing a book, empowering people to chase their dreams
and make meaningful contributions to the world.

Q. What would you like to say to foreign friends that are thinking of applying for internship at VANK?

You definitely should! VANK is an incredible opportunity to gain hands-on experience
in research, international relations, and cultural diplomacy. You’ll improve your skills
in public speaking, teamwork, and critical thinking while working on meaningful
projects that make a real impact. Plus, you get to meet amazing people from different
backgrounds and build connections that last a lifetime. If you’re passionate about
global issues and cultural exchange, this internship is a perfect fit!

Q. Lastly, what would you like to say to VANK?

I would like to sincerely thank VANK for giving me this incredible opportunity. Being
part of such an inspiring organization has been an unforgettable journey, and I am
truly grateful for every moment I spent here. From the very beginning, I felt welcomed
by my colleagues and supervisors, who always supported and encouraged me.
Through this internship, I have learned so much, not only about my work but also
about Korean culture, history, and the power of diplomacy. The kindness and warmth
I received from everyone at VANK made my time here even more special. This
internship has truly been a life-changing experience, shaping my perspective and
inspiring me to continue making a positive impact. I will always cherish the valuable
lessons, friendships, and memories I have gained at VANK, and I hope to stay
connected in the future. Thank you once again for everything!

I am Eilene Napitupulu from Indonesia, and I am a Global Intern at VANK. I am currently a student at Binus University in Jakarta, majoring in Visual Communication Design with a focus on Creative Advertising.

I began developing my interest in Korea through K-drama and K-pop. I have always loved art and music, and Korean dramas and music are full of both. I came from Indonesia to Korea through AIESEC. AIESEC has a program called Global Volunteer, and in this program, AIESEC in Korea is collaborating with VANK to promote Korean culture, create cross-cultural understanding, and achieve the goal of decent work.

I’m here to deepen my understanding of Korean culture and share it with the world. While Korea is widely recognized for its K-pop, it’s surprising how many people are still unfamiliar with the richness of its culture. Personally, I find Korean culture incredibly fascinating. To promote it globally, I believe it’s essential for me to first gain a deeper understanding myself. Additionally, I’m introducing my own country, Indonesia, to South Korea, fostering a cross-cultural exchange that brings both cultures closer together.

There have been many memorable moments at VANK, but the one that stands out the most for me was meeting the Governor of Gyeonggi Province, Kim Dong-yeon. It was an incredible honor to meet him in person and have the opportunity to present him with one of the tumblers I created. He was incredibly welcoming and kind, making the experience even more special. It was not only a privilege to meet him but also an amazing opportunity to explore Gyeonggi-do, particularly the Suwon area.

I realized there was so much about Korean history and culture that I didn’t know, despite having heard a lot about it before. For me, this journey isn’t just about sharing Korean culture with the world—it’s also a learning experience. I was surprised to discover many similarities between Indonesian and Korean cultures, which inspired me to promote these connections in Indonesia. One way I’ve done this is by creating a video highlighting the cultural parallels between Korea and Indonesia, helping to bridge our two cultures even further.

It has been incredibly rewarding to share Indonesian history and culture with a global audience. VANK gave me the opportunity to highlight Jakarta’s history through a video I created, which was shared on Instagram. While many people are familiar with Indonesia’s history, fewer know about Jakarta’s unique past as the capital city. This platform allowed me to promote Jakarta’s rich history to the world, and I’m grateful for the chance to bring greater awareness to it.

Instagram Video

The Petitions I’ve Made

During my internship at VANK, I had the opportunity to write two articles for petitions on both Woollim and Bridge Asia.

During my stay in Korea, I frequently received public safety alerts in Korean. Each time I received one, I made sure to translate it into English, and I quickly realized that these alerts often contained critical information. While translating them was beneficial for me, I realized that many foreigners visiting Korea might not be doing the same, leaving them unaware of important updates they should know about. This experience prompted me to create a petition advocating for public safety alerts to also be provided in English, ensuring that all visitors can stay informed and safe.

Woollim Petition

Bridge Asia Petition

My second petition focuses on the issue of climate change, particularly in relation to the fashion industry. During my time in Korea, I noticed many stores selling trendy clothing, similar to what I’ve seen in Indonesia. However, this raised concerns for me, knowing that much of this clothing comes from the fast fashion industry, which is highly detrimental to the environment. I realized that many people might not be aware of the severe environmental damage caused by fast fashion and its contribution to climate change. This motivated me to create a petition aimed at raising awareness about these issues and advocating for a more sustainable approach to fashion to help protect our planet.

Woollim Climate Change Petition

Bridge Asia Climate Change Petition

During my internship, I also had the opportunity to contribute to designing backgrounds and layouts for social media posts.

Instagram Post

It was a fantastic experience, especially since I also got to introduce aspects of Indonesia’s culture each week during my presentations. I was truly amazed by how everyone at VANK was so interested in the cultures I shared, making the experience even more meaningful.

I’ve learned so much from this internship, and one of the things that has truly impressed me is VANK’s dedication to promoting Korea to the world. It’s become my dream to implement a similar approach in Indonesia. VANK’s work has been incredibly inspiring, and I aspire to do something similar. As a Visual Communication Design student, I want to use my skills and knowledge to achieve in Indonesia what VANK has accomplished for Korea.

To everyone passionate about fostering cultural understanding and pursuing big dreams, take this opportunity as your first step. I guarantee it’s worth it because great achievements always begin with small steps.

I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to VANK for this incredible experience, which has surpassed my wildest dreams. Being able to contribute meaningfully has been truly fulfilling. Thank you for opening the doors to my big dreams and helping me take the first steps toward achieving them.

Hello!

My name is Safiandra Pasha Samiaji. I am an undergraduate student from Indonesia working here at VANK as a foreign youth researcher. The activity started in early July and is coming to a close at the end of August. As we wrap up the activity, I would like to summarize the things I have done over the past month. But first, I will explain why I chose VANK and how I came to be here in Korea.

Why VANK?

Back in March, I realized that I wanted to do something beneficial for myself and seek a new experience during this year’s summer break. I didn’t want to waste my holiday by just sitting around and doing nothing. Fortunately, my organization, AIESEC, had just launched its summer exchange program. When I saw the VANK program, I knew it was perfect. It offered personal growth and cross-cultural exchange in a new country. I had also developed an interest in Korea and wanted to learn more about its culture and history. I applied immediately, despite being nervous about the interview. A few months later, I received the exciting news that I had been selected. Just a month after that, I was in Korea, beginning my internship at VANK.

What I Did at VANK

Petition: More Public Trash Cans in the City

This petition was created due to a problem that I and many other tourists experienced: the lack of public trash cans throughout the city. Many people are forced to hold onto their trash until they can find a trash bin, which disrupts the sightseeing experience. Additionally, this can contribute to litter, negatively impacting the city’s image. Increasing the number of trash cans, especially in popular tourist areas, would be a great, tourist-friendly solution.

Video about Indonesian Culture: “Ngaben”

I created a video for VANK explaining one of the most fascinating cultures in my hometown of Bali called “Ngaben.” Ngaben is a Javanese Hindu tradition that involves the cremation of a deceased person. It is a significant ritual that holds deep cultural and spiritual meaning for Javanese Hindus. I made this video to share with people here so they can also learn about my home culture, as I am learning about cultures here in Korea as well. It is a great opportunity for cross-cultural exchange. You can check out the video on VANK’s Instagram account.

K-Food Video: Naengmyeon

This is another video I made where I contributed to VANK’s K-food video challenge, which promotes and increases exposure of Korean food around the world. I took this chance to explain one of the most interesting Korean dishes, in my opinion, which is “Naengmyeon” or Korean cold noodles. It’s a very unique dish, and I think the blend of ice and soup works very well in the summer. I’ve never seen anything like this in any other country, which is why I wanted to talk about and share this culinary experience.

Petition: Increase English Books in Public Libraries

This petition highlights the difficulty faced by myself, as well as by foreign visitors and residents in South Korea, due to the lack of English-language books in public libraries. The scarcity of English books not only hinders learning about Korean culture but also detracts from the overall tourist experience. In my opinion, expanding English-language collections in public libraries is crucial to better cater to the needs of a diverse population and promote cultural exchange. It also provides more reasons for tourists to stay in libraries beyond just taking pictures.

Final Thoughts

Working here at VANK has been the best experience—one that I am sure I will never forget. Words can’t fully express my gratitude for everything I’ve gained here at VANK. From the moment I arrived, I was warmly welcomed by everyone. Beyond personal growth, I had the unique opportunity to connect with the people here and share my experiences. It’s truly something that I will always remember. I have become inspired by VANK’s noble mission to preserve and promote Korean culture. I have no doubt that VANK is destined for great success. Thank you for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime. I hope we can meet again soon!