Q. Can you introduce yourself briefly?
A. Hi, I’m Chae Hee-soo.
Back in Korea, I worked in hotel service, an IT company, and as a fitness trainer. Right now, I’m working as a barista on a working holiday in the Gold Coast.
Q. What kind of work did you do in Korea?
I’ve always liked service work, so I worked in hotels. During COVID, I went back to study computer science and worked at an IT company for about two years.
After leaving, I wanted to go abroad, but funds were limited, so I juggled multiple jobs. I’ve also always been interested in fitness, so I prepared certifications as a lifestyle sports instructor and trainer.
Honestly, my favorite was Taekwondo. I’ve practiced it seriously since I was young, and I’m currently a 5th-degree black belt. ^^
Q. You wanted to try coaching in Australia?
Yes. To coach Taekwondo or fitness here, you need at least a 6–12 month formal course.
I even brought my dobok, but starting that course immediately was too costly and time-consuming, so I started in service first.
Still, I hope to work as a fitness program coach someday.
Q. Why did you choose Melbourne at first?
Melbourne felt more urban and completely different from Korea, so I wanted to challenge myself.
Later, considering lifestyle and job opportunities, I moved to the Gold Coast, and I’m really happy here.
Q. When did you start liking exercise?
I started Taekwondo as a child because my parents suggested it. I enjoyed sparring and found it exciting. I quit in high school for studies.
After stopping, I gained weight and went out drinking more… eventually, I really disliked my own habits.
I decided to diet and started circuit training, Pilates, and F45. It was tough, but I felt what I call “good pain” for the first time.
I highly recommend F45—it’s way more fun than working out alone, you sweat more, and doing it together keeps you motivated.
Q. What are you doing now?
I’m working as a barista in the Gold Coast.
All my colleagues are foreigners, and I’m the only Korean.
My English isn’t fluent yet, but working among foreigners naturally improves it, and I’m learning a lot by working nonstop.
Q. What was the hardest part in the early days of your working holiday?
I was really afraid of English.
Watching YouTube or Reels, I saw many people failing interviews, which made me even more nervous. So I started with Korean-run jobs first. Some said, “Then why did you come for a working holiday?”
But I think starting with Korean jobs was a great way to overcome my fear of English. The Korean managers and coworkers were also very supportive emotionally.
Q. Any tips for newcomers on a working holiday?
Q. How did your family react when you said you were going to Australia?
My parents fully supported me.
They said, “Go try everything, don’t worry.”
Being the youngest, I was always protected and hadn’t done much on my own. This working holiday was my first real step toward independence.
Q. What’s the best part of living in Australia?
I love the simple routine: exercise, work, relax in the evening.
People are relaxed, career perspectives are flexible, and I feel like I can live freely without worrying about others’ opinions.
Q. Future plans or hopes?
I hope to work as a fitness coach again, especially in Taekwondo or training.
For now, I’m working as a barista to build my English and life foundation, but if possible, I’d love to work with foreign coaches.
If anyone in Southport wants to exercise together, run, or join F45, you’re always welcome.
Q. Any final words for those considering a working holiday?
Even if you’re scared or not perfect, just come.
Whether it’s exercise, work, or English, your life starts to change the moment you begin something new.
I think Australia is a country that allows you to take that first step.
