Global Korea Scholarship Scholar Michael Lie from Indonesia Shares His Journey of Securing a Fully Funded Master's at the Kunsan National University, South Korea

My name is Michael Lie, and I am an Indonesian student with an academic background in Korean studies. As Gen-Z, I’m growing in the middle of a big revolution of media and globalization that makes the distance between countries just an illusion. Because of that, I have always dreamed of being part of international communities, and that’s led me to take Korean studies as my bridge to overseas. However, learning culture itself isn’t enough, and it has motivated me to pursue my studies in the media field.

During my undergraduate studies, I was always in charge of content production, such as remaking Korean dramas for a class project and being editor-in-chief for a major student association's social media account. But due to my hesitation about my future in this field, I decided to make this is as a hobby.

After graduating, I was working in a Korean intergovernmental organization as business support. At that time, it was a good career life where all paths were well structured, but I wasn’t really sure if it was really my path to work in this field. To find the answer, I’m taking a career break and decided to go to Korea as a language training student at Yonsei University. At that time, I participated in the Yonsei video competition and was recognized as one of the best candidates. From that moment, I regained my passion for media, which led me to pursue my Master's degree in Media and Culture at Kunsan National University as a Global Korea Scholarship Awardee (2025-2028).

Global Korea Scholarship Details

As I mentioned, I’m one of the Global Korea Scholarship awardees, funded by the Korean Government, National Institute for International Education. This is a fully funded scholarship program where you can apply to any university in Korea that joins the Global Korea Scholarship program. The scholarship itself covers:

• Airfare trip
• Tuition fee
• Monthly allowance (Insurance, living costs)
• 1-year Korean language training program

Educational Background

I was majoring in Korean Studies for my bachelor's degree at Universitas Indonesia, Indonesia. My educational background, especially my university, helps me connect and gives me the international exposure that led me to participate in various extracurricular activities like volunteering as a liaison officer for Korean students at the Pacific Asia Pacific event sponsored by KOICA, participating in the Sociovation forum held by Singapore University of Social Science. Besides that, I also actively engage with internal activities as editor-in-chief of the media creative department at the Korean studies student association.  While I’m being active in extracurricular activities, I also manage to keep performing well in my academic record and graduate with praise (Cum laude). And all of that journey shaped me to become my present self and helps me write an essay to lead me to my current life.

Apply Preparation

For preparation, I took many trial and errors. I’ve been applying for this scholarship for three years, both through the Embassy track and the University track. I did a lot of research for the university and major. I also rewrote my essay many times because of my hesitation about whether I should choose a business major that aligns with my career background, or choose Korean literature since it also aligns with my previous educational background. However, I’m choosing what aligns with what I want, Media and Culture at Kunsan National University. It’s not only experience, but you also need self-assurance about what you want for yourself.

How Did You Find Information About the Global Korea Scholarship and Kunsan National University?

I found Global Korea Scholarship information through the Study in Korea edufair and the Telegram group Global Korea Scholarship applicant communities, and for Kunsan National University, I found it through the Global Korea Scholarship database and the university's website.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

Yes, I took language proficiency tests (IELTS and TOPIK). Both are optional for this scholarship. For IELTS preparation, I only rely on online mock test applications issued by the British Council, and for TOPIK preparation, I practiced a lot of questions from the TOPIK website.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Global Korea Scholarship?

Preparing for the Global Korea Scholarship application was a long process that required both academic and personal preparation. Before applying, I spent time improving my Korean language. Since I planned to continue my studies in the field of Media and Culture, I also explored possible research interests related to the Korean media industries and opportunities between Korea and Indonesia.

During the application period, I carefully researched universities, departments, and professors whose academic interests matched my goals. I compared different graduate programs, reviewed course structures, and read previous research papers to understand which university environment would fit my academic direction best. I also prepared multiple application documents, such as the study plan, personal statement, recommendation letter, academic certificates, and translated documents that needed official verification.

In addition, I worked on strengthening my academic and extracurricular background by participating in student organizations, media-related activities, and cultural exchange programs. These experiences helped me clarify my future goals and explain why I wanted to study in Korea through the GKS program.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I think my application likely stood out because it was coherent and had a touch of my personality. My personal statement and study plan have my personal story, clear progression between background, experience, academic interest, and future goals.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

I wish I were brave enough to ask my friend and my academic advisor to review my personal statement.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

Preparing a scholarship application is not a sprint, but it’s a marathon. I would like to advise applicants to always prepare it in advance. Read and research all the scholarship information comprehensively. Also, don’t hesitate to ask for help from the surroundings. Last, keep in mind that failing is not the end, and you can always try again or look at another way to achieve your goals.