Finding Free Events & Perks as a Foreign Influencer

I often get asked how I started getting invited to events, free travel programs, or even beauty treatments here in Korea. And honestly? It didn’t happen overnight. I wasn’t born “lucky” or instantly viral, I just started, stayed consistent, and tried not to give up even when it felt like no one was watching. If you're a foreigner in Korea who loves content creation or storytelling, this post is for you. 1. Post consistently even when the numbers are low It’s easy to get discouraged when a reel flops or a story goes unnoticed. But don’t stop. The truth is, many opportunities come when someone from a team or brand sees your content over time. Your page doesn’t need to be perfect, but it should show who you are, what kind of content you create, and that you're active. Think of it as your portfolio even before any official projects. 2. Follow the right pages There are so many programs and events that don’t get promoted widely. Some accounts post opportunities for free trips, product reviews, or ambassador programs but you won’t know unless you’re actively following and checking them. I made it a habit to follow pages related to Korean tourism, youth programs, and creator communities. It made a huge difference. 3. Don’t be afraid to apply I know how it feels to hesitate. "They probably want someone fluent in Korean." "My follower count is too low." I’ve said all of this to myself before. But the truth is, many campaigns are looking for authenticity, not perfection. I’ve received event invites and even a ticket to one of Korea’s biggest award shows just because I applied and showed genuine interest. You never know unless you try. 4. Be open to meeting people Some of my favorite memories came from simply saying yes to new things, photo walks, creator meetups, or small group programs. Not only do you learn and get inspired, but you also meet people who might later recommend you for something, or become long-term friends. You don’t have to be super outgoing, just open. 5. Don’t compare your growth to others Social media is a tricky place. It’s easy to feel like you’re “behind” when everyone else seems to be working with brands or getting views. But everyone’s timeline is different. I’ve had months of silence, and then suddenly multiple projects at once. Stay focused on your voice, your audience, and your growth however slow it may seem. Being a foreign creator in Korea has its own challenges, but it also opens doors you never expected. Stay curious, be kind, and keep creating. The opportunities will come.