By: Sohyeon Park, KGGTF 2025 Youth Intern
On February 12, 2025, Specialists in the World Bank, who previously worked at KGGTF, shared their advice with the KGGTF interns. Urban Specialist Mr. John Hosung Lee and Environmental Specialist Mr. Hak Joo Song joined the session, offering practical insights and advice based on their own experiences.
An Urban Specialist's View of Global Urban Challenges
John Hosung Lee, an urban specialist based in Singapore, works at the World Bank, focusing on urban disasters and land management. His work spans housing projects, urban flood response, and collaboration with the environmental sector to address climate change and waste management. According to Lee, one of the biggest urban challenges is open dumpsites. In developing countries, particularly in regions like West Africa, poor urban maintenance leads to the accumulation of illegally dumped waste. This, in turn, causes severe social problems, including fires, foul odors, and public health risks.
Lee emphasized that urban challenges are interconnected with sectors like environment, energy, and transportation, citing Malaysia’s low-carbon city project as an example. Simple solutions like switching to LED lighting and double-glazed windows can reduce energy costs and carbon emissions. In urban development and related fields, he noted “Having diverse experiences is often more valuable than holding a specific academic major.” Employers tend to prioritize practical, hands-on experience over theoretical knowledge, as real-world challenges require adaptability and interdisciplinary problem-solving skills. Reflecting on his own internship experience, Lee shared that of the three interns he worked with at the time, he still collaborates with one of them today. He concluded his talk with a piece of heartfelt advice: “Cherish your relationship.”
Environmental Specialist Mr. Hak Joo Song joined the session, offering practical insights based on his own experiences. Mr. Song, an Environmental Specialist, has been with the World Bank for seven years. He explained that the environmental sector is divided into five key areas: oceans, forests, air pollution, policy, and biodiversity. Unlike the other sector like urban, where a broad, interdisciplinary approach is often necessary, the environmental field demands deep expertise in specific areas. As environmental issues like climate change gain increasing global attention, the scope of work in this sector is rapidly expanding.
Looking back on his time as a World Bank intern, Mr. Song shared that the experience broadened his perspective and helped him understand the type of talent the World Bank values. He highlighted that “The organization favors individuals with experience in both the public and private sectors, as well as those who understand the World Bank’s operational system. Connecting diverse experiences is key to building a strong career in this field.” Additionally, he highlighted the importance of soft skills, pointing out that much of the work involves collaborating and interacting with people. Beyond technical expertise, developing strong communication and relationship-building skills is essential.
He emphasized that “the current internship experience is not just a work experience, but a very important foundation for the future career.” The session provided valuable insights into the real-world challenges and growth opportunities in the urban and environmental sectors, offering interns a deeper understanding of their fields.