KOREA FOUNDATION

ASEAN IN KOREA

Merchandiser from Malaysia: Ezenn

Ezenn, who came to Korea from Malaysia in 2014, studied Korean and received her BA in Media Studies from Korea University in 2020. Today, Ezenn is a member of Korea’s corporate workforce with two years of professional experience. After starting her career at a cosmetics company, she is currently an online Media Studies at Wyatt, an affiliate of the Korean IT company Kakao. For the December issue, ASEAN Culture House Monthly heard from Ezenn about working and living in Korea as a foreign IT employee.

Ezenn works from home or a nearby cafe according to Wyatt’s work-at-home mandate caused by COVID-19.

You are in charge of overseas sales for a Kakao affiliate. Can you briefly explain your responsibilities?

I work on brand marketing for the Southeast Asian market?which, of course, includes my home country of Malaysia. I am responsible for operating the e-commerce platform for Southeast Asia and all online-related tasks, such as customer services.

How developed is digital culture in ASEAN countries today? What do you think of its immediate future?

Demand for online shopping in Southeast Asia has skyrocketed due to COVID-19. People may not be able to travel, but they can easily purchase foreign products online. Most foreign e-commerce platforms have a well-organized distribution system, which allows consumers to receive products relatively quickly. Another aspect worth noting is that online shopping is enjoyed not only by young people but also by older individuals. Once more people grow accustomed to online shopping, it won’t be long until many more consumers start using e-commerce platforms, which make shopping possible regardless of time or place.

How has your life changed while residing in Korea?

It’s fun living here because I am constantly having new experiences of Korean culture, enjoying delicious food, and traveling whenever I can. One skill I’ve gained in the seven years I have lived in Korea is how to survive on my own. I am doing really well: I have hobbies, know how to cook my own meals, have a clear idea of my concerns and goals, and know how to take responsibility for my choices. I am not yet at as worldly-wise as I hope to be, but I am definitely making progress in getting to know myself.

How do you hope to grow professionally as someone who works in overseas sales? What are your future goals?

Each day, I do my best to be someone who can communicate in multiple languages and give satisfaction to customers based on an accurate understanding of their needs. Most of my job satisfaction comes from helping others. Ultimately, I would like to be a “bridge of communication” that links Korea and Malaysia as well as other countries.