At Agoda, every career journey is unique. For three Agodans who started out at our Seoul office, their paths illustrate how professional growth can take shape in different ways. From stepping into leadership roles to exploring new skill sets and relocating to new cities, read on to learn about their Agoda Korea stories.
Embracing a global spirit
Shinae Park
Team Manager
I first joined Agoda Korea as a Customer Service Team (CST) agent in September 2019. I found a deep sense of fulfillment in listening to others, understanding their stories, and resolving the challenges faced by our customers and partners. Like many, I had concerns about working in the travel industry during the pandemic. Yet, my love for travel and belief that our customers shared this passion kept me motivated. This mindset helped me navigate the challenges of that uncertain time.
As the industry began to recover, Agoda needed to onboard many new hires, creating an opportunity for me to step into a training role within the Learning & Development department. Over the course of a year, I trained several groups of newcomers and had the pleasure of seeing them grow and succeed. Wanting to take a more active role in supporting these newcomers, I then applied for the Team Manager role. I strive to be a source of guidance and encouragement for others, just as my managers and colleagues were for me.
Four years into my time at the Seoul office, I was fully satisfied with my experiences, work-life balance, and supportive colleagues, and felt ready to leave my comfort zone. I decided to embrace Agoda’s global spirit and relocate to Bangkok. I love working with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, and our fun team culture means I always look forward to coming to the office.
There are highlights like weekly massage sessions, a pantry full of snacks, and monthly catering pop-ups. Social events, including big gatherings like AgodaFest, build a strong sense of community, while sports clubs and volunteer activities help us to connect with other teams and find fulfilment outside of work.
Bringing great talent to Agoda
Jamie (Sungjin) Yeo
Associate Talent Acquisition Partner
I’ve always been fascinated by the tourism industry, which led me to intern at several global five-star hotels during my university years. After three years of honing my skills at a tech company, I applied to Agoda Korea, drawn by its unique fusion of tourism and technology. Having lived abroad since high school, I missed the diversity I had experienced overseas and loved that Agoda offers a global work environment.
In my role, I guide the recruitment process from start to finish, from posting job openings and screening resumes to conducting HR interviews and overseeing onboarding. I also manage exciting projects like our recruitment blog and participate in quarterly job fairs to strengthen Agoda’s employer brand. Collaborating with colleagues from around the world, I scout top talent, analyze hiring trends, and connect promising candidates with opportunities.
I feel a deep sense of pride when candidates I’ve scouted or interviewed successfully join Agoda. When I spot them in the office, I often find myself silently cheering for them, knowing I played a part in their career journey. Agoda is a company that thrives on change. For anyone looking to join, having a global mindset, adaptability, and a proactive approach is key. If you’re someone who values diversity, experimentation, and respectful communication, you’ll find Agoda to be an exciting and fulfilling place to grow.
Guiding others to grow
Yujin Kwon
CS Team Captain
I joined Agoda Korea as a Customer Experience Specialist in September 2022 and transitioned into my current role in May 2023. My role as Team Captain is all about enhancing the customer experience and supporting the growth of our Customer Experience Specialists, not just in Korea but across Agoda’s global offices.
My day-to-day responsibilities include guiding agents on procedural matters, helping them tailor solutions to customers’ needs, and offering feedback to help them grow professionally. I also ensure they stay updated on company changes and initiatives, which strengthens their understanding of Agoda and their role. Collaboration plays a significant part in my work—whether it’s providing operational updates, addressing escalations, or contributing to cross-team projects that drive efficiency.
I once heard the saying, “You can tell how you’ll be treated at a company based on the interview.” My experience interviewing at Agoda proved this to be true. The respect and care I felt during the interview process carried through to my day-to-day experience after joining the company.
Agoda’s commitment to creating a flexible, growth-oriented workplace truly sets it apart. In the Customer Experience Group, we follow a remote work policy that requires us to be in the office for just one week every two months, saving valuable commuting time and energy. Another standout benefit is Agoda’s workcation program, which allows employees to work from any country for a month.
Agoda’s structured training system is another major advantage. Even without prior experience in customer service, new employees receive comprehensive training and ongoing coaching to ensure they succeed in their roles. Regular feedback sessions with team managers help identify areas for growth and foster a constructive, supportive environment.
Want to be part of Life at Agoda Korea? Explore roles today!
