Over the past month, I decided that i would take my Korean learning journey into literature. But since formal literature and books were too advanced (or costly), I chose to read some Webtoons, specifically exploring popular titles like "Itaewon Class" and "Sweet Home." This venture not only expanded my Korean language skills but also provided me with a fresh and insightful perspective on Korean culture and society. Webtoons, or online comics, have become a cultural phenomenon in Korea, and they offer a unique view into the daily lives, societal norms, and emotional landscapes of the Korean people. As a language learner, delving into the narrative-rich world of Webtoons proved to be an engaging and dynamic way to enhance my understanding of colloquial expressions, informal language usage, and the nuances of everyday communication.
One of the Webtoons that left a profound impact on my learning journey was "Itaewon Class." The series, which has also been adapted into a popular Kdrama, follows the journey of a resilient entrepreneur navigating the complexities of the business world. Through the dialogues and interactions between characters, I found myself not only picking up on new vocabulary but also gaining insights into the cultural dynamics of Korean workplace etiquette and the pursuit of success in a very, very competitive society.
In addition to the language aspect, "Sweet Home" offered a different lens through which to explore Korean society. This gripping Webtoon, centered around a monstrous apocalypse, delves into the psychological struggles and interpersonal relationships of its characters. As I navigated through the suspenseful plot, I encountered a range of emotions expressed in Korean, from fear and despair to camaraderie and hope. This emotional depth added layers to my language learning experience, allowing me to absorb and internalize expressions that extend beyond everyday conversations.
Moreover, the Webtoons provided a large array of Korean culture. From the bustling streets of Seoul depicted in "Itaewon Class" to the dynamic portrayal of Korean urban life in "Sweet Home," these visual elements complemented my linguistic learning by offering cultural context and expanding my understanding of the settings in which the stories unfolded.
As the month progressed, I found myself not only improving my Korean language skills but also gaining a more profound appreciation for the diverse factors of Korean society and storytelling. Webtoons, with their vivid narratives and cultural insights, have become not just a tool for language acquisition but a gateway to a deeper understanding of the vibrant and changing world of Korean culture. This immersive journey has not only expanded my language proficiency but has also opened my eyes to the vast array of tradition and culture of life in Korea. Without a doubt, I’ll continue to keep reading other Webtoons to expand my understanding in both of these topics.
Comments
I think Webtoons are a great resource in learning Korean, especially at a beginner or intermediate level, because of the graphics and short phrases. I remember my brother also used to read Webtoons during his free time to improve his Korean! Maybe I should read these Webtoons as a part of my Korean learning resource next semester.