Q: Hello, please introduce yourself.

A: Hello. This is TA THI THANH NGA, 24 years old, from Vietnam. I first entered Korea in 2020. I studied Korean at Seoul National University's Language Education Center and entered Hankuk University of Foreign Studies in 2022 and am currently in my second year. I am always working hard to adapt to the Korean language and culture.

Q : I wonder what kind of study you are studying in Korea!

A : I am double majoring in Vietnamese language and public administration in Korea. As economic cooperation and administrative exchanges between Vietnam and Korea are increasing, it is a time when a lot of manpower is needed to become a stepping stone for mutual exchanges and cooperation between Vietnam and Korea. Above all, the most important thing is to continuously improve Korean language skills. This is because verbal communication is the first step in all exchanges.

Q : As a foreign student, what kind of Korea do you see? For example, when you first came, what was amazing, what was difficult, what surprised you, etc.)

A : What I felt the most while living in Korea was the characteristics of Korean human culture. In the 21st century, Korea is home to millions of foreigners, and even now, when the Korean Wave with K-POP is spreading throughout the world, on the other hand, the national character of Koreans as a homogenous nation is still strong. A culture that takes the lead in helping people in need and a culture that values ​​the family-like solidarity of the group to which one belongs can be easily found in schools and companies. The reason comes from the historical background. Unlike Vietnam, which consists of dozens of ethnic groups, Korea has a single ethnic lineage, the Korean people, in its 5,000-year history. I think international students need to make an effort to understand this Korean culture.

Q : Do you have any stories about your homeland that you would like to share in Kikine?

A : Vietnam and Korea are countries that are close but also distant. Both countries share similar sentiments as Asian countries, but if you go into details, there are many differences. Those of us who study in Korea must respect Korean culture and abide by Korean laws, even if it is difficult. I think the friendly relationship between the two countries will increase as more Vietnamese live in Korea, know Korean culture, and get along well with Koreans. Vietnam and Korea are indispensable to each other economically and culturally. Our international students should take the lead in developing bilateral relations in a good direction.

Q : Advice to Vietnamese students preparing to study in Korea!

A : Let me introduce you to the Vietnam Student Association. The Vietnam Student Association was created to help Vietnamese students studying in Korea with difficulties and to exchange information. In addition, we are promoting friendship and unity among Vietnamese students. Many Vietnamese students are sharing a lot of information here, including life in Korea, Korean culture, university life in Korea, and employment information. The Vietnam Student Association is headquartered in Seoul and has 48 student associations at universities across the country. For students who need help while studying in Korea, it is a good way to join the Vietnam Student Association.