How I learned Korean...

Haven’t we all come across studies proving that learning a new language increases the ability to think critically, memorise and do better in tests?

However, the question that is hardly ever answered is: How can we learn a new language fast and effortless? At the end of the day it’s not about working hard as much as it is about working smarter. From my humble experience, I had two attempts to learn a new language.

My first attempt was during sixth grade when my mother enrolled me in a language school where I studied French. At that time, the teaching method was dull and boring for a young child. But I must admit that I also lacked self discipline and always thought of my friends who were having fun while I had to attend the language institute. I later stopped attending the school.

Five years later, I came across a random catchy song, and later learned it was Korean. The next thing I knew, I was already watching Korean dramas, talk and game shows, talent programs and slowly, I found myself able to understand the language even though I did not attend a language school.

This experience made me realise how entertainment can play an amazing role in speeding up the learning process as well as allowing the person to understand the culture, history and values of society. I started loving the language and became eager to learn more. Through entertainment, I learnt the spoken language, common idioms, and understood why there is a specific way to address elder people and seniors from those who are younger.

Then I realised that entertainment is not commonly used in language institutes where people sit in class and memorise grammar structure in such a dull manner.

So my humble advice is that if your language institute teaches you a language in a dull way, seek ways to make it more fun. If you love movies, look for a movie to watch. If you enjoy music, listen to songs in that language. If you are into art, learn the artistic calligraphy of the language.

— The reader is an Emirati project coordinator based in Dubai