Today’s letter is not a Korean lesson.
If you’re a K-Pop fan, you’re likely familiar with the mandatory military service in South Korea. I enlisted in the winter of 2018 and served for two years as a 조교 — a trainer at the boot camp.
The military operates within a strict hierarchy. In such an environment, having a strong physical presence can instill a sense of authority, compelling trainees to follow your orders.
But unfortunately… I was just way too far from fitting the “scary” appearance.
(Good example of a 조교’s appearance.)
(Bad example of a 조교’s appearance. Hands are too pretty.)
Well, I couldn’t change my hands to make me look tough 🧌🧌, so I decided to take a different approach to earning respect from hundreds of trainees—by acquiring exceptional public speaking skills.
Whether I’m teaching basic drills such as how to salute, or more advanced drills like how to shoot a firearm, I always strived to be professional and deliver speeches with the appropriate tone. Surprisingly, the skills I developed during this period have also tremendously helped me in my career as a Korean teacher.
Looking back… it was a great experience! Korean men have conflicting points of view when it comes to military experience, but I believe it has taught me how to be extremely disciplined. So, I don’t regret it.
I will end today’s letter with my favorite Korean Army song - trust me, your favorite idol oppa knows this song very well too 😂
높은 산 깊은 골, 적막한 산하
(High mountain and deep valley, desolate foot of the mountain)
눈 내린 전선을 우리는 간다.
(To the snow-covered front line, we go.)
젊은 넋 숨져간 그 때 그 자리
(That time of the place where young departed spirits are.)
상처입은 노송은 말을 잊었네.
(The wounded old pine tree got silent.)
전우여, 들리는가?
(My fellow soldier, can you hear)
그 성난 목소리
(the angry voice?)
전우여 보이는가?
(My fellow soldier, can you see)
한 맺힌 눈동자
(the pupils with grudge?)
푸른 숲 맑은 물, 숨쉬는 산하
(Blue forest and clear water, breathing foot of the mountain)
봄이 온 전선을 우리는 간다
(To the front line that welcomed spring, we go.)
젊은 피 스며든 그 때 그 자리
(That time of the place where young blood were soaked.)
이끼 낀 바위는 말을 잊었네.
(Mossy rocks got silent.)
전우여, 들리는가?
(My fellow soldier, can you hear)
그 성난 목소리
(the angry voice?)
전우여 보이는가?
(My fellow soldier, can you see)
한 맺힌 눈동자
(the pupils with grudge?)
Ready to move beyond basic Hangul?
It’s time to LEVEL UP your reading and listening skills.
Great! Your hands brought you where you are now ;) 🤭☺️
Thank you for sharing ☺️