By Honorary Reporter ECE YILDIRIM from Turkiye (Turkey)
Photos = Ece Yıldırım

Istanbul, Turkiye (Turkey), from Dec. 5-6 hosted an event for those interested in living, working or studying in Seoul. Organized by the Seoul Metropolitan Government and Seoul Global Center, the first STAR (Seoul Talent Attraction and Relations) Seoul Career & Startup Seminar in Turkiye offered two days of information and cultural experiences. The event was to strengthen Seoul’s global competitiveness by attracting skilled Turkish talent and entrepreneurs toto its vibrant high-tech and creative innovation ecosystems.

The event opens on Dec. 5 at Sheraton Istanbul Hotel Levent in İstanbul, Turkiye.

Held at Sheraton Istanbul Hotel Levent, the event attracted staff from the Korean capital, center consultants, Korean immigration officials and Turkish expats with many years of living in Korea. Participants received the latest first-hand insights into life in Seoul including jobs, startup ecosystem, visa and residence procedures, and educational opportunities.

The Alumni Mentoring Booth provides advice to participants.

A major highlight was individual consultations. The center's advisory booths and information desks run by Korea University and King Sejong Institute allowed visitors to ask questions and receive expert guidance tailored to their plans. Thus STAR was an essential guide for those considering moving to Korea or building a career there.

Cultural and creative activities at the event included trying on Hanbok (traditional clothing), caricature illustrations, craft workshops and personal color analysis, giving participants a closer look at Korean culture. Haechi, the official mascot of Seoul, added to the vibrant atmosphere.

A caricature artist draws visitors at his booth.

I found the event valuable for getting essential information about living in Korea. The consultation booths drew significant attention, the officials thoughtfully answered every question, and the cultural activities and warm atmosphere made the seminar not just informative but also inspiring.

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.