Even though I have been learning the Korean language, I did not have confidence to use it when I ask native Koreans for help. If I do speak Korean to the local people, they might think that I know Korean so they'll speak back in Korean to me. I am usually on a tight schedule to get to the places that I need; therefore, I ask in English and look for the younger generation or foreigners to quickly travel. Most of the time when I ask for directions, I ask, "Do you speak English?" After that, I use small Korean words like "isseo-yo/obseo-yo (is there.../there's no...)" or "otteokhae? (how?)." To be more specific, when I went to see the musical "Mata Hari," I was near Myeongdong. I wanted to go get to Sejong Performing Arts Center and asked a foreigner about how to get to the building. I didn't have internet connection, but everyone that I asked had it. I traveled alone at that time as well. The local people know their way around Seoul besides using the internet. A young couple explained to me that I can get to the musical building by walking. I thought the building was far from where I was at that time, but it was close by. I planned to take the bus at first and I realized how difficult it was to find a crosswalk and bus station. From the young couple's directions, I had to walked through the City Hall, and take a right. Though I was late to the musical, I learned how to navigate that area for the next time I go back to watch the musical. I like how every one of the people that I approached were willing to help me. I think that's a good part and impression on Korea as a country that is currently teaching English in their education system and simply that majority of the people are helpful and welcoming. Other than speaking English to Koreans when I want help or start a conversation, when I shop, workers approach me by asking questions in Korean and I don't understand most of what they're saying. I respond back with, "I only speak English." I think I need to be more confident is speaking Korean since it was part of my goal as I immerse myself into Korean culture on this study abroad trip.
