Korean students’ perceptions of the effectiveness of their internship experiences in the hospitality industry in Korea

This research study assessed Korean students’ perceptions and overall satisfaction levels regarding the effectiveness of their hospitality internship experiences. Relationships with demographic characteristics were identified. The sample was comprised of 74 senior‐level university students enrolled in Korean hospitality and/or tourism management programs who were completing an internship in Korea. Generally, students exhibited low agreement levels on the internship program aspects being investigated. Previous work experience was the most common factor influencing students’ perceptions of their internship experiences. Agreement levels increased with length of prior work experience. Type of internship workplace, expectation of an employment offer, age and gender were found to influence students’ perceptions of the internship experiences.