In another exciting step beyond traditional study abroad programming, SAF Korea recently partnered with a government-affiliated agency to support South Korea’s semiconductor strategy through a custom-designed program for industry professionals.
Held from April 14 to 17, 2025, and facilitated by the IES Abroad Amsterdam Center, the SAF Korea- Netherlands Semiconductor customized program welcomed 20 professionals from mid-sized South Korean semiconductor companies for an intensive, four-day exploration of innovation, collaboration, and knowledge exchange.
This customized program – “Trends & Advancements in the Dutch Semiconductor Industry” – was part of a broader bilateral initiative aimed at strengthening cooperation between South Korea and the Netherlands in one of today’s most critical global sectors. As part of this effort, the South Korean government committed to sending approximately 500 participants to the Netherlands for academic training, site visits, and professional networking.
Originally, the Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology (KIAT) – a public body under the Korean Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy – was tasked with managing the logistics of these learning trips. However, recognizing the complexity and ambition of the initiative, KIAT ultimately turned to SAF, a trusted leader in bespoke, high-impact study abroad programs, to bring the vision to life. It was a natural fit: SAF’s global network and expertise in custom education experiences made it uniquely positioned to deliver.
Drawing on strong connections in the Netherlands, SAF partnered with the IES Abroad Amsterdam Center. With its proximity to research powerhouses like the Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research and the University of Amsterdam, not to mention a thriving tech ecosystem made up of startups and established companies, Amsterdam offered the perfect setting for a cohort eager to immerse themselves in the frontier of semiconductor advancement.
The program combined visits to leading semiconductor companies like NXP, a pioneering facility in the nearby city of Eindhoven. It also included expert-led seminars at the IES Abroad Amsterdam Center, as well as opportunities for cultural immersion. Korean-language interpretation was available throughout, ensuring participants could fully engage with the material. Beyond professional development, the program also provided firsthand exposure to Dutch innovation culture, emphasizing collaboration, research excellence, and forward-thinking business practices.
Academic sessions, led by faculty from top-ranked universities including Delft University of Technology and Eindhoven University of Technology, introduced participants to cutting-edge research areas like quantum computing applications, neuromorphic systems, and micro-electromechanical technologies – fields poised to shape the next generation of semiconductor advancements. While the content was highly technical, and at times challenging, participants said they found it enriching, sparking new perspectives and ideas to bring back to their home organizations.
Professional guidance and logistical support were also provided by representatives from both the Korea Semiconductor Industry Association (KSIA) and KIAT, ensuring a smooth and enriching experience from start to finish.
A particular highlight was the visit to Hightech NL, the Dutch industry association for the high-tech sector, which acts as a national platform for innovation, collaboration, and knowledge exchange. Participants were awe-struck by the advanced facilities, and welcomed the opportunity to engage directly with the people pioneering the Dutch semiconductor landscape.
The experience wasn’t confined to classrooms and boardrooms. Participants also had the chance to savor Amsterdam’s rich culture, enjoying a canal boat tour with Korean-language narration, group dinners at trendy food halls and traditional restaurant-cafes, and free time to wander the city’s charming canalside streets.
Every detail was meticulously planned by SAF and IES Abroad, from health and safety protocols to cultural comfort. Participants were welcomed at Schiphol Airport by local IES Abroad staff and transported to their accommodation, a modern hotel overlooking the tranquil Rembrandtpark. Throughout the program, private buses and Korean-speaking facilitators ensured smooth transfers and a seamless study experience.
The success of the program is a testament to the strength and adaptability of the SAF-IES Abroad partnership. SAF Korea worked hand-in-hand with IES Abroad Amsterdam Center, notably Mara Borghesio, Customized Programs Coordinator, and Chantell Omloo, Center Director, to create a program unlike any previously offered, breaking new ground in the Center’s offerings.
“Their ability to connect the participants with the right professionals and companies, while ensuring exceptional student health and safety services, was truly impressive,” said Suyeon Lee, Director of SAF Korea. She added that the program may also mark the beginning of a long-term collaboration in this space.
“Korea is strategically shaping its policies to boost revenue in the semiconductor industry while preparing the next generation to produce world-class work,” she said. “As a result, I believe SAF and IES Abroad are in a strong position to support these government initiatives by organizing high-quality international study experiences, not only for university students, but also for seasoned professionals in the field.”
Want to learn more about how SAF customized programs can support your goals? Reach out to start the conversation.
