IFEZ 인천경제자유구역 로고

Sheelpa Kothari Sorti

If you are living in Korea and you don't want to feel like a guest here, this could be your first step to get assimilated. Learn Korean language.

I agree that it is easier said than done. Moreover, if you read the online comments about learning the language, you will be overwhelmed before starting your first lesson.

My first-hand account is very pleasant about learning the language and more so because my teachers and the IFEZ were extra cooperative. IFEZ has some best teachers who are patient and always ready to help out at every step with the real intention to hand-hold you in learning the language.

The whole experience is so interesting as students are also given the taste of different Korean cultural activities such as DMZ (demilitarised zone) tour and Seoul tour. Besides, IFEZ organises many other cultural activities like kimchi making, temple stay and pottery classes for the expats living here. It is such a holistic experience of deeply immersing yourself in Korean culture just as a complimentary gesture from the IFEZ.

Dividends of learning the language are many such as you can follow K-POP and K-dramas more keenly by understanding the lyrics/dialogues along with the sentiments. Your living is comfortable right from shopping to travelling in public transport to easily negotiating the restaurants even as social awareness is enhanced. Last but not least - learning any new language is a good exercise for brain.

But learning Korean was my way of reciprocating the politeness of the people here and showing that I care about them.