✍️ Why I Write: A Promise Kept After 25 Years
✍️ Why I Write: A Promise Kept After 25 Years
👋 Hello from an Ordinary Uncle in Korea
As we stand at the beginning of 2026, I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself properly to everyone visiting this blog.
I am just an ordinary man in my 50s living in South Korea. I go to work, come home, and live a normal life just like many of you. However, I have one special hobby that brings great joy to my daily routine: meeting friends from all over the world through foreign languages and learning about each other’s lives.
Lately, whenever I see how many people love Korean dramas, movies, music, and travel, I feel an immense sense of pride as a Korean. It warms my heart to see so many of you interested in my country. This excitement is exactly what drives me. My mission is not just to teach you the Korean language, but to help you deeply understand the history and culture behind it, so that you can fall in love with Korea even more.
🌱 From a Gap Year to a Life Mission
Some of you might wonder why I put so much effort into this blog.
A while ago, during my "Gap Year," I started teaching Korean on italki by chance. As I met students from various countries, I realized something important: there was a need for a place where people could learn not just the language, but the "real" Korea—its nuances, its culture, and its stories—without barriers.
I started writing one post at a time, answering questions and sharing insights. Before I knew it, those small efforts accumulated into nearly 500 posts.
Now, my Gap Year is over, and I have returned to my busy life as an office worker. But I realized that teaching Korean easily and sharing my culture has become more than just a hobby; it feels like my life's mission. I want to tell you that you don't need to spend a fortune to learn what you love. My goal is for this blog to be a place where you can learn freely, understand Korea deeply, and find help in your studies without financial burden.
🍁 A Promise Kept After 25 Years
There is a deeper, personal reason why I am committed to this.
About 25 years ago, I went to Canada to learn English. Back then, I was a poor university student with very little money. But I had a Canadian friend who took great care of me. He bought me meals, helped me adjust, and treated me with genuine kindness.
I felt guilty because I had nothing to give him in return. When I apologized for not being able to repay him, he told me something I have never forgotten:
Writing these posts is my way of keeping that promise I made to my friend 25 years ago.
My writing and my efforts may not change the world. But if my blog can help even one person on the opposite side of the globe understand Korea a little better or solve a difficult grammar problem, then I have fulfilled my purpose.
🎁 My Wish for You in 2026
I don't know how many people will read this letter. But I promise to continue writing, little by little, steadily sharing what I know.
If you are reading this, and if my blog has been helpful to you in any way, I have one small request. You don't need to send me money or gifts. Instead, if you see someone around you who needs help, please lend them a hand. It doesn't have to be financial help—even a bright smile or a kind word is enough.
Let's pass on the kindness, just like my friend did for me, and just like I am trying to do for you.
You all worked so hard in 2025. I truly hope that 2026 brings you nothing but happiness and good news.
Happy New Year!
Or, as we say in Korea with all our heart:
