Cultural Vistas - Korea WEST

The Korea WEST exchange program provides top South Korean university students and young professionals the opportunity to intern, complete an intensive English study program, and explore the life and culture of the United States through immersion and independent travel. 

As part of Cultural Vistas’ sponsorship, WEST scholars come to the United States for up to 18 months on a J-1 visa for a personalized exchange experience which includes:  

• Formal English language instruction and cultural training (up to four months) 
• Career-focused internship with U.S. host company (between four to 12 months) 
• Independent travel (up to 30 days following successful internship) 

Cultural Vistas’ Korea WEST program is a joint initiative of the Republic of Korea and the U.S. Department of State. Since 2009, Cultural Vistas has provided over 1,250 students and young professionals with the opportunity to enrich their academic studies and advance their careers through Korea WEST.  

Internships

Candidates must first be accepted by MOE to the Korea WEST program.  

Once accepted, we will review your skills and experience and begin identifying internship opportunities. We draw on a vast network of partners across the U.S. to provide placements relevant to your field of study, experience, and professional interest. Placements are with companies of all sizes and industries, including: 

• Small and medium-sized private companies 
• Non-governmental and nonprofit organizations 
• Federal, state, or city government administrations 
• Academic institutions 

Please note that we cannot guarantee placements with a particular company or in a specific location. Our obligation to you as your Korea WEST sponsor is to find you a suitable offer that matches your academic background and professional experience and meets the qualifications for a suitable Korea WEST internship.  

We thoroughly investigate all potential host employers to ensure they are reputable and offer a substantive professional training opportunity. In addition, we will arrange and coordinate interviews with potential host companies, conduct a resume workshop to provide resume support, including templates to create an American resume, and assist with interview preparation.  

Once you are selected by a host employer, we will present you with an official internship offer. Korea WEST interns are expected to attend all scheduled interviews and accept your official interview offer in writing as required for the J-1 visa.