WEST Program

For Employers

Thank you for your interest in providing an internship for a Korea WEST participant!

Korea WEST (Work, English Study, Travel) is a public diplomacy initiative administered by CDS International on behalf of the U.S. Department of State and the Republic of Korea Ministry of Education Science and Technology. Through WEST, outstanding South Korean university students are competitively selected for the opportunity to complete an intensive English language course and to intern in the United States. Companies that host WEST interns will benefit from the goodwill and relationships generated by this program, which already enjoys a high profile in South Korea. The program’s goal is to enhance business ties and mutual understanding between the people of the United States and South Korea.

WEST participants hold the J-1 WEST Intern visa, which enables them to accept paid or unpaid positions in the U.S. lasting up to 12 months. The Korean Council on University Education generously provides a small living stipend to participants who accept unpaid internships in the U.S.

For further information on hosting a WEST intern or about the program more generally, please contact We would be happy to answer any questions you may have and to assist in arranging interviews.