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10 Major Companies, 10 Days: A Global Business Immersion in South Korea

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10 Major Companies, 10 Days: A Global Business Immersion in South Korea

By Professor David Park

Over the course of ten intense and inspiring days, I had the privilege of leading a group of Whitman students on an immersive Business in East Asia course trip to South Korea. Traveling across Seoul and Busan, we visited ten major companies in ten days—a whirlwind journey that offered students a rare, firsthand look at the complexity and vitality of Korean business and culture.

Our itinerary included some of Korea’s most iconic enterprises—Samsung and Hyundai—alongside global firms with strong operations in Korea such as EY Korea and Ralph Lauren. At most company visits, students had the rare opportunity to engage directly with senior leadership, gaining deep insights into corporate strategy, leadership philosophy, innovation practices, and how these organizations navigate the rapidly evolving East Asian business landscape.

But the learning extended well beyond boardrooms. The trip was also a rich cultural immersion. We explored historic sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Beomeosa Temple, and the DMZ; learned to cook a traditional Korean dish; wandered the halls of the National Museum of Korea; and even relaxed in a natural hot spring spa—all while enjoying the depth and variety of Korean cuisine. These experiences helped students better understand the societal and cultural contexts that shape Korean business practices and values.

Whitman group visiting Bukchon Hanok Village

The integration of academic, professional, and cultural elements allowed students to bridge classroom theory with real-world complexity. They witnessed how Korea’s history, cultural norms, and rapid modernization inform how business is done—and how leaders build trust, manage change, and drive innovation. For me, it was especially meaningful to guide this journey in my home country, sharing not just its corporate landscape but its heart and spirit through food, stories, and lived experiences.

It was an honor to facilitate this learning adventure. I’m convinced that these kinds of immersive experiences are among the most impactful tools we have to prepare future leaders for global business.

To any students considering this course in the future: take the leap. There is no substitute for being there—meeting leaders face-to-face, navigating a different cultural setting, and witnessing global business in action in one of Asia’s most influential economies. This isn’t just a class; it’s a transformative experience that will broaden your perspective and shape your path forward.

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