Over the past winter, I had the opportunity to intern at the East Asia Institute (EAI) in Seoul, South Korea. As a graduate student at Yonsei University’s GSIS and a former undergraduate in East Asian International Studies, I have always been deeply interested in regional politics and diplomacy. This internship allowed me to gain hands-on experience in a think tank environment, reinforcing my understanding of how policy research informs diplomatic decision-making. With plans to join the Consulate of the Republic of Korea in Guam, I see this experience as a meaningful stepping stone toward my future in the foreign service.

During my time at EAI, I was involved in a diverse range of projects that combined research, media production, and event coordination. One of the key projects I contributed to was the "Special Commentary Series on the Return of Trump," where I worked on structuring extensive political analyses into accessible formats. This task sharpened my ability to distill complex geopolitical discussions into concise summaries, an essential skill for both academia and policymaking.

I also had the privilege of assisting with the "Korea-Japan Normalization 60th Anniversary Conference," where leading scholars from both nations gathered to discuss the future of bilateral relations. My role involved compiling biographies and summarizing key research areas of participating experts. Engaging with such high-level discussions provided me with valuable insight into the evolving dynamics of Korea-Japan relations and the broader implications for East Asian diplomacy.

Beyond research, I was actively involved in content creation for EAI’s public outreach. I helped produce Instagram card news and contributed to video recording and editing, making complex policy discussions more accessible to a broader audience. The process of translating academic work into engaging digital content helped me understand the importance of effective communication in international relations.

One of the most personally rewarding aspects of my internship was the opportunity to conduct and present my own research. My study focused on the increasing conservatism among South Korean males in their 20s, a topic that required me to analyze various academic sources and receive constructive feedback from EAI researchers. This experience allowed me to refine my analytical skills and approach my research with greater depth and clarity.

Looking back, my time at EAI was invaluable. Not only did I gain practical experience in research and policy analysis, but I also witnessed firsthand the crucial role think tanks play in shaping international discourse. The skills and insights I have gained will undoubtedly benefit me as I step into my role at the consulate and continue my pursuit of a career in diplomacy.