The Rapid Pace of Korean Expansion in Indonesia, This Independent City Is Increasingly Popular with Korean Citizens & Investors
Cikarang, June 25, 2024 – OVER the past 10 years, the Korean trend has become a very strong phenomenon in various parts of the world, including Indonesia. Korean cultural influences have penetrated various aspects of people’s lives, from music and drama to fashion and culinary.
The increasing popularity of Korean trends in Indonesia has also penetrated into the city of Jababeka Cikarang and is realized through the industrial, business, and education sectors. This independent city has even witnessed the deepening integration of Korean culture and business. Korean companies are starting to invest in this city so that it can create jobs and strengthen economic ties between Korea and Indonesia.
The development of Jababeka Cikarang City from year to year is getting more massive. Standing on an area of 5,600 hectares, one of the independent city projects from PT Jababeka Tbk which has been present since 1989 has become a comfortable home and place of activity not only for Indonesian people but also for foreign citizens.
As a city that combines residential complexes with industrial areas, Jababeka City is now inhabited by more than 2,000 national and multinational companies from 34 countries. Among them are the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Australia, Japan, China, Taiwan, Singapore, and Malaysia. Including Korea which also has a strong community base in Jababeka City.
“The presence of Korean expatriates in Jababeka City Cikarang not only reflects a promising business investment opportunity but also marks a rich and dynamic cultural collaboration. As one of the leading independent cities in Indonesia, Jababeka City has become a magnet for Korean entrepreneurs and professionals who are looking for new opportunities and a favorable business environment,” said General Manager of Corporate Marketing of Jababeka Residence, Ferry Thahir.
“The K-Wave concentration at President University is a program designed to provide in-depth knowledge of the wave of Korean popular culture, which covers everything from music (K-Pop), television dramas (K-Drama), movies, to fashion and technology,” explained Handa S. Abidin, SH, LL.M., Ph.D, Chancellor of President University.
Handa added, “The K-Wave concentration program will open in the new school year, and it will not only focus on entertainment and cultural aspects but also include learning about business innovation and global strategies implemented by the Korean entertainment industry.”
Shin Tae Yong, the coach of the Indonesian national football team who was also present at the Korean Day event, said that collaboration between Korea and Indonesia must continue to be improved. “The goal is for the potential of Indonesia’s young generation to continue to excel, not only in terms of sports but also education. Activities such as Korean Day are an important step in strengthening the relationship between the two countries and providing wider learning opportunities for the younger generation,” he said.
Accommodating the Needs of Korean Expatriates
The existence of foreign students, including those from Korea, at President University is expected to contribute to the economy, one of which is through the opening of businesses or businesses in Indonesia, especially in the Jababeka area. Given its position as one of the largest economic centers, the region has great potential in offering business and investment opportunities that graduates can take advantage of.
Lee Sang-deok, who is the South Korean Ambassador to Indonesia, said at the Korean Day event that Jababeka Cikarang City, which is home to President University, is a representative city area that can be said to be the heart of Indonesia’s economic growth. This is marked by the number of Korean companies expanding into the region.
“Around 3,000 Korean companies have entered Indonesia and contributed to Indonesia’s economic development. In contrast, around 60,000 Indonesian workers work in various types of industries in Korea and receive positive reviews. Supported by this background, exchanges and cooperation between Korea and Indonesia, especially recently, continue to shine,” said Lee Sang-deok.
Jababeka City as a “home” for President University and students has made various breakthroughs in terms of environment, facilities, and infrastructure. The city of Jababeka is equipped with international facilities, such as world-class health and education facilities, a 70-hectare golf course (Jababeka Golf & Country Club), as well as economic activities with a global reach. Malls and commercial areas are also presented to accommodate the entertainment needs of the local community and expatriates who live in Jababeka City.
“To ensure that foreign students feel comfortable like in their own country, Jababeka City provides a variety of recreational facilities and foreign cuisine. In addition, regarding housing for expats, we also accommodate needs through products that are marketed according to the rules on house prices that foreigners can buy,” added Ferry Thahir.
The products in question are the Paradiso Golf Villas and Kawana Golf Residence clusters. Paradiso Golf Villas carries the concept of smart life balance combined with modern living, with direct access to the golf course and clubhouse which can be reached by walking only. Meanwhile, Kawana Golf Residence is the only serviced apartment that has direct access to the golf area with complete facilities that are in demand by expats, including Koreans.
“Housing prices in Jababeka City are certainly more affordable than neighboring countries such as South Korea itself, then Malaysia, and even Singapore. Although it is lower, it still offers complete facilities of international standard. Moreover, the economic growth of the Cikarang area is very promising, so it is suitable for investment,” said Ferry.
Equipped with the concept of Live, Work, Play, and cluster residents in Jababeka City can carry out all activities in one area with easy and comfortable access. Security in Jababeka is claimed to be guaranteed by a 24-hour security system, CCTV, Police, and Makorem. Currently, Jababeka is building a command center for more intense security. It should also be noted that this city is fully digital-based with a 24-hour active response service for resident complaints that can be accessed through the application.