Jungle is a software program run by KRAFTON to foster talented software developers based on self-directed learning and immersion. The third cohort began their journey on October 10th, and applications for the fourth cohort, scheduled to start next January, have recently closed. Our third interviewee is Bumki Kim, who, as a second cohort graduate of KRAFTON Jungle, will be joining VoyagerX as a developer. (Link to Part 1), (Link to Part 2) He emphasized that a great developer has strong communication skills and continuously considers how to enhance the user experience. He made sure to stress the importance of sticking to the initial goals throughout the program. Now, let’s delve into his experiences throughout KRAFTON Jungle.
Hello. Nice to meet you. Can you please introduce yourself?
Hello, I’m Bumki Kim, a second-cohort graduate of KRAFTON Jungle. I’m currently a junior in the second semester, and I recently secured a position at VoyagerX as a job-guaranteed intern.
How do you feel after completing the program?
It’s been about two months since I finished the program. I’m extremely proud to have completed the rigorous five-month course. And I also feel a great sense of gratitude because I don’t think I would have landed this job without the experience I gained during KRAFTON Jungle.
What made you apply for KRAFTON Jungle?
During my first two years of college, I still hadn’t fully appreciated the importance of computer science. So, I was mostly working on tech stacks. However, the more I studied, the more I realized the importance of a solid foundation in computer science. I originally planned to take a semester off to study further, then I stumbled upon a recruitment post for KRAFTON Jungle on Everytime. I applied immediately because the curriculum covered all the points I considered essential, from algorithms and data structures to computer systems and OS.
What made you decide to work for the current company?
I’ve always wanted to work at a startup. VoyagerX appeared to be a fast-growing company constantly innovating in the market. The freedom to work on projects of my choice was very appealing to me. I was confident that with this company, I could continually improve and learn a lot. I placed great importance on the “growth” of both myself and the company.
What was your biggest expectation for Jungle? Did you have any goals?
I was particularly drawn to the idea of bootcamp training. The environment itself allowed me to focus entirely on my studies. It felt like a restricted environment, one where I could focus solely on studying outside of sleep and meal times, which really boosted my immersion.
Was any particular part of the curriculum exceptionally demanding or memorable?
The PintOS project was the hardest. I think all the graduates from the program would agree with that. It involves building a small operating system from scratch. Unlike the theoretical knowledge I had acquired from books, I got to truly grasp the comprehensive flow of an operating system and paint a bigger picture of how computers operate, all in just four weeks. It was a challenging but immensely rewarding endeavor.
When was the most fulfilling moment?
It was when I presented my “Make My Own Weapon” project. My project garnered more interest and questions than I had anticipated, which was incredibly satisfying.
Could you explain the final project, “Code Craft”? What was your role and the most significant takeaway from it?
There is a software called Robocode, which provides a combat simulation environment where robots, controlled by customized source codes, move and engage in battles. This software’s downside is its non-web and non-real-time nature. The objective of this project was to address these limitations by creating a real-time combat environment using Robocode.
My job was providing backend support. I utilized source codes from Robocode for essential logic, such as handling the robot’s movement, and created real-time battle sessions for numerous users to play.
I came to realize that there were many things I couldn’t solve on my own. I truly grasped the value of teamwork and communication.
KRAFTON Jungle is all about “immersive experience”. What’s “immersion” from your point of view?
Immersion, to me, is about diving deep into a single subject. Before joining the program, I wanted to be more of a generalist, exploring different domains without getting too specialized. However, in situations that required deeper problem-solving or application, my approach frequently led me to encounter obstacles and dead ends. So, throughout the program, I narrowed my focus to one area and delved deep into it, which I believe enhanced my fundamental problem-solving skills.
Is there anything you wished to be better?
I really didn’t want to eat out. (Laughs) I felt like even the time spent on eating was too valuable to waste. Nearby restaurants were quite a distance away from Seoul National University Siheung Campus where the program was held. I must say, I’m a bit jealous of the third cohort because they have a more convenient location now.
What is the most valuable thing you learned through Jungle?
There were two major takeaways. First, I developed the habit of diving deep into a subject and staying immersed in it. Second, I significantly enhanced my communication skills as all Jungle projects are team-based, fostering better collaboration and communication. There was so much to learn in these respects.
Did Jungle help you in the job-seeking process?
The program equipped me with valuable computer science knowledge that proved essential during technical interviews. Additionally, its emphasis on learning approaches and communication skills greatly aided me in culture-fit interviews. I used to struggle with presentations, but I’ve come a long way thanks to KRAFTON Jungle.
What do you think constitutes a good developer?
I believe that great developers possess strong communication skills. Technical prowess is of little use without effective teamwork and a user-centric mindset. Great developers continuously think about how to improve user satisfaction while maintaining a focus on technology.
Do you have any comments for those who consider about applying for Jungle?
Certainly, the program is intense, spanning five challenging months. Steel yourself before applying, because it will be a mentally and emotionally challenging experience. There will be moments of frustration and self-doubt. In those moments, the most important thing is to keep your composure. To navigate the Jungle effectively, it’s essential to stay focused on your initial purpose, resist external distractions, and continuously reflect on why you chose to tread this path and what you aim to accomplish.
Do you have any last comments for this interview?
It would be a lie to say that it wasn’t a tough experience, but it was an extremely rewarding one as well. As long as you can get yourself immersed in the program, there’s a whole world of knowledge and experience just waiting for you on this journey.
