105,110: Journal 2- Reading in target language (Korean)

[Gargi Vyas]

My first step towards learning Korean was memorizing the alphabet. The Korean alphabet consists of 24 characters and is straightforward to read. At this point, my reading is quite slow, but it is mostly because of my unfamiliarity with the script. I can pronounce words in my head when I read, but due to a limited vocabulary, I do not understand much of what I try to read. I am a big fan of Korean music, and therefore I try to read some of my favorite songs' lyrics in Korean. Before doing so I read the English translation of the lyrics so that when I finally read them in Korean, I am able to get an idea of some vocabulary. Reading has enabled me to develop my pronunciation too, and it feels good to finally be able to belt out (however out of tune it might be) the chorus of your favorite Korean song knowing for sure you're saying it right!