Alissandra Me too! Everyone is telling me I only want to go because of all the Kdramas I watch and stuff. Although I do watch a lot of Kdramas, that isn't the reason I love only Korea!
Girl yess. The miscommunication/misunderstanding on the nonverbal level was the hardest. I learned after 6 months that they didn't know my hair was naturally curly. Like they didn't know naturally curly hair was humanly possible. They actually just thought I had a strange perm. I had to show them pics of babies with curly hair. It was completely unknown to the kids and adults around me. That level of erasure through their eyes an complete miscommunication when you're juat trying to be yourself is sooo heavy.
Don't assume! I am a black woman with dreadlocks and have lived in Asia for years and just so happen to be 6'0 feet tall so I understand the (not many people like me) point. But I have to say, assumptions will leave you with anxiety! It doesn't matter what people think or say about you. All that matters is that you are comfortable with you! I also understand the isolation point, however, I have discovered recently that I am an introvert, disguised as a social bunny. I do love my alone time. Great Video! I do think that it's necessary for people to realize that every coin has 2 sides.
You're so right about it not mattering what people think. At the end of the day it really doesn't, shoot even in just 4 months, these people's opinions will be irrelevant. I'm going to try to focus on that more. I'm glad you could relate to my experiences and thanks for sharing yours!
I'm 14 and in April I'm auditioning for SM Entertainment. I am determined to become a trainee, but I'm worried about being black in Korea and how to fit in, and I feel like your videos have helped me prepare mentally, haha
This really made me realize that I take my 'normal' for granted. Living in the US I think nothing of all kinds of hair styles, body types, and skin tones. It's just ppl being themselves! A little depressing to imgine how close-minded some foreign places are due to lack of diversity. I shudder to think how Koreans would treat me as a latina, but I'd still love to visit! You go girl!
I think I totallllly took "normal" for granted too! But hopefully their encounters with me will help the next woman of color they come into contact with. & definitely don't let my experiences in a small town stop you from visiting!!
MellBells from my experience Latinas don't really exist to them. We're mostly racially and culturally mixed and that's not concept they really understand. I had to do a whole lesson on Columbus and my family tree for them to understand that I am racially mixed and not in the standard biracial (ex, black mom/white dad) way. I showed them how all my grandparents and great grandparents are diff (West African, Spanish, Portuguese, Native etc.) They were blown away lol.
AshleyLaGata Thanks for sharing that! Thats both funny and a little bewildering to me. Even in videos that Ive seen where koreans are asked how they feel about latinas, they immediately talk about women from south america. If I mentioned Puerto Rico I wonder if they'd even know of its existence. Guess people have alot to teach one another!
I'm Puerto Rican. I can tell you definitely they won't know. Even when I went to "salsa clubs" there, no one knew what PR was. They all think salsa is Cuban.
I'm Puerto Rican. I can tell you definitely they won't know. Even when I went to "salsa clubs" there, no one knew what PR was. They all think salsa is Cuban.
You're very strong. Being misunderstood/discriminated against in America is hard enough, but to be away from shoulders to cry on AND experience being "misunderstood" for being yourself must be terribly difficult. I'm a "cryer" so I would have very many puffy eyed days 😔
That last one is a HUGE hurdle. Total opposite in London where I lived and studied. Fell in love because of the love and understanding I found in the city.
Mel on the Move I think the folks in the bigger cities like Seoul Korea find it easier but the ones that I know that taught in the smaller towns found it particularly challenging. Glad you found your tribe that are keeping you sane!
This put me at ease, my family always doubts me about going to Korea. They think because of my race Korea will effect me negatively. But maybe I'll visit before I commit to a lifestyle there. Also my hair is crazy and wild I wear it like that everyday.
I have been living in South Africa for a year and I started my internship 5 months ago. I feel like quitting because the other interns always speak in their own language and that's so depressing to me. I feel so excluded because they don't even try to speak english around me, it's like they don't care. Anyway, thanks for your video
Child, don't you dare worry about why they don't understand.. you have hair like YOUR MESSIAH! It's beautiful and that is THEIR problem... but I know you already know that. God Bless!
Thanks for doing this video. It really helped to reign in my eagerness to come to Korea (In a good way). Makes me feel like I'll be more prepared. Could you do a video on your preparation and progress in your EPIK application.
your videos are so helpful ! i am planning to do epik when i'm old enough, but that's far away since i'm just thirteen at the moment. i am learning korean and i would just love to go to south korea when i can- the only thing is my gran thinks it's strange and my brothers would make fun of me and just discourage me if i ever told them. you're an inspiration to me, and i just want to thank you for making these types of videos ❤️
Love and appreciate this video so much. You truly are a cultural ambassador! I spent time in Japan teaching and my big curly hair was definitely new and shocking to them as well. I'm almost sure that although you get looks, there are just as many people who think your hair is absolutely beautiful!
I think that you are gaining experience professionally and personally. Those experiences are valuable. About feeling lonely...that could be anywhere and I can relate to you. I came from another country to teach in the US and even though you meet a lot of people most of them don't stay in your life. I would love to go to Korea one day. I love their Korean dramas and their beauty products. They have some good movies too. Keep making the videos, we are listening and learning from your experiences. :)
I am so happy that I have stumbled upon your channel. You are so real about moving to Korea. I am looking at my options after high school and one of them is going to Korea. It's almost crazy that you are also from Florida. 😂❤️
You are so beautiful. I’m sure you already know that, but ur hair and everything about you - including your personality and faith - is beautiful. Also, I appreciate your videos. I’m seriously thinking about moving to Korea and ur information helps me think about it!
If you have LITTLE in common ... it is what it is. I've encountered a few Korean immigrants here in the U.S. that have misunderstood a few of my actions and who are HIGHLY judgmental and critical. When possible I limit my interactions and avoid them.
An uncommon beauty -> Mel. Who gives a flying flip about what they think about your hair? Your hair out and beautiful is who you are, no different from their hair growing out of their head. Never yield, never give up, never compromise. They freaking need to understand that this is the hair of a Black woman in all of its glorious texture and fullness. Wear it proudly. Be beautiful, be lovingly defiant in your natural self. Tell them to kiss your kimchi and that this who I am and they need to get over it already. This attitude that you have needs to change like yesterday! Never apologize for being a beautiful natural Black woman. Not in Florida, Not in South Korea, Not anywhere. You are stronger than this. Don't let me down. Seriously. It is painful to me to hear these words, to hear of this surrender. Wear it out loud and proud. God made you and he didn't make any mistakes with your hair or anything else.
Hi, it's so courageous what you're doing and I feel the same way living as a foreigner in a european country. So I completely understand what you mean. Love from France.
Substitute everything you said with being a 'halmoni' in Korea. That's my story! Exactly the same. Even the hair story - I have fluff for hair with lots of gray showing. And I can't camouflage it because in Korea you just don't find blond hair dye that does not turn your hair into pumpkin orange. As for trying Koreans to understand you - well that's almost impossible. I can say that with confidence after having been here for more than 8 years. But it is still better for me to be here ....
This was great! I am thinking of spending some time in Korea but I have tattoos and bright pink and purple hair!! Might have to get myself a wig for when I don't feel like being stared at...
Yeah, that was my intention but then life got in the way lol and now I think it'd be a waste bc I'll only be around for a few more months. But if I could do it all over, I def would've!
I love this video. I'm not sure if you mentioned where you live but I just moved here in Seoul (Sinchon area) and thank God we moved here together but I do experience the isolation with making friends when I'm alone. I'll meet people but staying in contact or actually meeting up to make friends I havent had the best luck.
glad you could relate! i live in a small town and luckily there's a sense of community among the foreigners bc there's only so many of us lol but making friends as an adult in general is just tough and then add living in a new country to the mix o.O a doozy. I hope it gets better for you though!
not gonna lie. i clicked on this vid.. cuz of your face. feeling lonely is being human. you're doing a great job! anyway.. yes, you're cute, the hurr is cute too and i like your sweater. maybe i will like this channel too. who knows.
OMG... I relate so much. Specially the part about maintaining relationships... The struggle is real while living abroad, but keep up with the optimism! I really do feel that having an optimistic outtake helps tons! And by the way, you can have #debbiedowners, #wellroundedrebeccas and #realisticrosalyns... What about the optimistic people? Don`t we get a #? hahahah
those people judging are jealous of you!! lol they need to open their mind and get over what you chose you do with your time and life. you always cute! lol oh the hair thing....I would love to change those visual judgements....sad. Thank you for this video!! once again opening my eyes to things I've never thought of. 😀
Amen! Haha we all should just live our lives and march to our own beats namsayinnn!! & le sigh, yeah I'd love to change it too. I'm glad you enjoyed! Thanks for watching chica :)
A month after I moved, when I received my ARC (alien registration card), I got a cell phone plan with Olleh and I mostly communicate with my family via Kakao (free messaging and calling) and iMessage/ FaceTime.
Hi Melody question do you still have connection in Korea especially those who travel to China I need someone who know the manufacturing hub in china send a message please.
You will NEVER get a better opportunity to learn the language than the one you have NOW. Get your hands on some books and STOP BEING LAZY and have a true Korean Experience. I'm rootin for ya😊
Ive always wanted to go to korea but I don’t know what job i could ever get unless its an english teacher, I’ve always wanted to be a lawyer, doctor, or astrophysicist but I don’t know if I could be able to have that kind of career. Another career I’ve considered especially in korea is to be a philologist because i know there is a stigma around mental health and that it is hard to be able to find proper and considerate treatment but at the same time that stigma might enable me to work or be taken seriously.
Hi..i was just wondering how did you get around korea/navigate and just in general live in korea without knowing korean? And also.. Since youre a teacher can you tell me more about the kind of students there? Cause im studying there soon and im kind of afraid..like i know koreans are very..whats the word against? Idk but like they find people or things that are different weird and im afraid the students there are going to be unaccepting (ya thats the word) of me.. So can you tell me more about them? Im talking about around 15-16 age group thankyou!! Love your vids💕
Vanessa Tai I've studied abroad in S. Korea last year and depending on whether you're going to study for high school or university it really depends. I can't talk about high school since I was a uni exchange but in university there are a lot of exchange students so the korean university students are more open to them since they want to do language exchange. Also it's very easy to navigate & go around Korea because their subway system is pretty awesome. There are some English apps you can use to take the Korean subway and bus which is very useful. I encourage you to at least learn Hangul because it's very easy and to pick up basic words or phrases because that can help you. You will have a great time in Korea!
since you live in korea, do you have to bow to the people when you say thank you or sorry, or is it by choice, or do you have to do it , and would they see it as disrespect or no?
hi Melody...try to remember that many people teach just to stay in korea.i don't thing that the people in south korea realize that there are also people that teach to live in koorea on a longer term. Its thought of as the only way to "vacation" there longer them the 3 months. If you had a non-teaching salary women type job, there opinion changes. Then you have a "real job"....I know, I know. It's just food for thought.
Sometimes you feel abroad not so far from home. Like just at work for example. I was the only black woman for a while juste where I work. I live in France and I am French from West Indies. It used to be weird about my hair habits and sometimes from other black peoples I could met. Where I from that's never constitute a problem wearing our hair free 🙂
I understand completely I really enjoy your videos they really had a impacted on my decision whether or not I want to go and this is something I want to do
Luckily I`m not missing things from my home country. I`m living abroad for a year and as I don`t have a close relationship with my cousins and don`t have many friends, there`s nothing to miss lol No weddings, no new babies, no birthday parties, etc. I mainy keep in touch with my parents, my sister and my close friend. And I`m also lucky not have my relatives judge me for leaving temporarily the country. They are quite positive about it. As for your hair, that`s such a pity that Koreans make feel uncomfortable when you wear it the way you like it :( I do try to keep a conservative hairstyle here too (I`m in Europe though) as I`m working a private school in a very small town with mostly white people.
hello Mel, I'm new here and I really like your videos. But as you spoke about misunderstanding language barrier wise, I'd like to know if I'm misunderstanding you in any way, cause it might be since I'm from Brazil. idk, you looked pretty sad about the hair issue, is that so? I mean, of course it bothers you but does it really affect you? If so, you shouldn't let things like that get to you, you look so beautiful in whatever hairstyle you're rocking, girl, not to mention that you have such a nice vibe... the Koreans seem very judgemental from what I've heard (not just from you) so you shouldn't care about them. 안녕히 계세요! peace ❤
hey! thanks for your kind words. the hair issue does affect me - I didn't really realize how much so, until I filmed this to be honest! It's a lot harder said than done to just not care about what they think/ say but I am definitely going to try to wear the hairstyles I prefer more my last few months here vs doing what I've been doing :)
I just do a little fake smile but I can't explain to them that I'm not flattered to be called "pineapple teacher", ya know. Idk it's harder said that done to just not care. But I'm going to try more these next few months! Thanks for your suggestion :)
Hi! Sorry for my mistakes in English it's not my native language. I'm watching your video to get more interesting vocabulary like phrasal words (there is plenty of that in your speeches, thanks). Another reason for watching it, you know, you talk about so common thing for different people (I mean even different races, I'm a white). I moved out of my hometown to live and work abroad. For the first time, all things didn't cease to amaze me, I was excited about everything new and tended to taste it in the different meaning of this word. You are right, time is flying, so in one year I've started to feel so similar things with yours. I mean misunderstanding and isolation. I suppose it's relevant for all countries where people are talking in another language than you and their point of view on everything differs from yours. And I suppose in this context people in the US are supposed to be much more free than in other world. Just keep doing what do you do if you like it! You are awesome and you've known already how to navigate these weird stuff.
I personaly think that after 3 years are gone you will realiz that korea isn't that what, you nead and will go back home to your family and Friends and have much more fun and will also find job that suits you
Ugh yes, that conflict with your family being excited you are out living your life and at the same time being .... when are you coming back home? Tricky feelings to navigate. @ariwanders
T^T you should still wear it down anyway, alwayysss oook!!!! your hair is cute walk with confidence with that haiirr!!!!! regardless of the comments and looks x...x
Mel on the Move That's great! I was wondering if they were friends who you met in person or connected with online first. Because I've heard of online media where you can makes friends with international people.
I'm going to make a video all about why but long story short, it's time to start a new chapter. Moving here, for me, was never going to be a permanent thing.
hey, i was thinking.. it would be that bad to say to koreans 'hey you are making me feel unconfortable' or things like that, when they talk about your hair or say other weird things..? did you ever considerate that? cos i've been wacthing a lot of foreigners that live in korea saying the same thing, that koreans can sometimes act in a incovinient way, but they always says 'but thats ok, it's just the way they are'. Like, i understand, im not from usa and i now people's culture can be different, but did you ever said things like 'please stop that, its making me feel bad' or something? cos, even if they are different they can still understand when they are being rude if someone tells them.. Like, i dont think you need to fight or be gross to someone to make they understand they are doing a UGH thing aahahahaha BUT, i'm not saying that what you lived it's your fault cos you didnt stand up, im really NOT sayin this, cos its stupid think like that and i dont now what you experienced, im just curious of how you deal with that, cause sounds really bothersome this attitude that koreans can have :/ i hope you're fine tho, i really like your videos and you convinced me to go teach in korea hahaha i just dont have the money to the trip, but oh god, i really wanted to
hey! really great questions. I've tried but it goes back to the miscommunication thing. they don't really understand or FEEL me when I try to tell them that something they're saying is rubbing me the wrong way. It's just lost in translation so I've stopped trying to explain and just grin and bear it, which isn't the best either but yeah. I just try not to take it personal & I'm glad my vids could inspire you!
Yes, they kind of are. Within themselves and to others. Because the society is so homogeneous, anyone who is different isn't really celebrated but rather looked at like "ummm get it together". if that makes sense lol!
"Judgements from back home" I haven't left yet and I'm already experiencing this one.. I wish I hadn't told anyone about my plans hahaha
lol! stay strong!!
Alissandra Me too! Everyone is telling me I only want to go because of all the Kdramas I watch and stuff. Although I do watch a lot of Kdramas, that isn't the reason I love only Korea!
Genesis Gutierrez the same is happening to me now, people try to change your goals but you really just have to stay strong
Girl yess. The miscommunication/misunderstanding on the nonverbal level was the hardest. I learned after 6 months that they didn't know my hair was naturally curly. Like they didn't know naturally curly hair was humanly possible. They actually just thought I had a strange perm. I had to show them pics of babies with curly hair. It was completely unknown to the kids and adults around me. That level of erasure through their eyes an complete miscommunication when you're juat trying to be yourself is sooo heavy.
LOL @ a strange perm.Omg. It's so incredible to me that naturally curly hair baffles them. Anything "other" is so unknown, it's crazy.
AshleyLaGata my korean teacher actually asked me how I permed my hair (its natural curl pattern lol) and how I get it so curly.
Oh wow that is wild.
Don't assume! I am a black woman with dreadlocks and have lived in Asia for years and just so happen to be 6'0 feet tall so I understand the (not many people like me) point. But I have to say, assumptions will leave you with anxiety! It doesn't matter what people think or say about you. All that matters is that you are comfortable with you! I also understand the isolation point, however, I have discovered recently that I am an introvert, disguised as a social bunny. I do love my alone time. Great Video! I do think that it's necessary for people to realize that every coin has 2 sides.
You're so right about it not mattering what people think. At the end of the day it really doesn't, shoot even in just 4 months, these people's opinions will be irrelevant. I'm going to try to focus on that more. I'm glad you could relate to my experiences and thanks for sharing yours!
I'm glad you are there representing African American women in a positive manner. Love your videos.
thanks!
You are too nice. I would wear my hair out just to fuck with their minds. You gonna learn today.
RIGHT SIS
I'm 14 and in April I'm auditioning for SM Entertainment. I am determined to become a trainee, but I'm worried about being black in Korea and how to fit in, and I feel like your videos have helped me prepare mentally, haha
Oka Montgomery go check out Alexandra Reid!!! You will be so happy if you don't already know about her though... if so awkward lol...
This video is sooooooooooooooooooooooooooo real! Thank you for speaking so honestly about the struggles here.
So glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you for being realistic! I am now working on my TEFL certification so I can apply for work in Korea. These sort of videos are very helpful.
I'm glad it could help! Good luck!!
This really made me realize that I take my 'normal' for granted. Living in the US I think nothing of all kinds of hair styles, body types, and skin tones. It's just ppl being themselves! A little depressing to imgine how close-minded some foreign places are due to lack of diversity. I shudder to think how Koreans would treat me as a latina, but I'd still love to visit! You go girl!
I think I totallllly took "normal" for granted too! But hopefully their encounters with me will help the next woman of color they come into contact with. & definitely don't let my experiences in a small town stop you from visiting!!
MellBells from my experience Latinas don't really exist to them. We're mostly racially and culturally mixed and that's not concept they really understand. I had to do a whole lesson on Columbus and my family tree for them to understand that I am racially mixed and not in the standard biracial (ex, black mom/white dad) way. I showed them how all my grandparents and great grandparents are diff (West African, Spanish, Portuguese, Native etc.) They were blown away lol.
AshleyLaGata Thanks for sharing that! Thats both funny and a little bewildering to me. Even in videos that Ive seen where koreans are asked how they feel about latinas, they immediately talk about women from south america. If I mentioned Puerto Rico I wonder if they'd even know of its existence. Guess people have alot to teach one another!
I'm Puerto Rican. I can tell you definitely they won't know. Even when I went to "salsa clubs" there, no one knew what PR was. They all think salsa is Cuban.
I'm Puerto Rican. I can tell you definitely they won't know. Even when I went to "salsa clubs" there, no one knew what PR was. They all think salsa is Cuban.
You're very strong. Being misunderstood/discriminated against in America is hard enough, but to be away from shoulders to cry on AND experience being "misunderstood" for being yourself must be terribly difficult. I'm a "cryer" so I would have very many puffy eyed days 😔
it's definitely tough at times! but you'd be surprised how adaptable you are when you gotta be
Thank you for validating what I've been experiencing my past 3 months in Korea. I wish i had watched a video like this before I came. Well done!
I wish I had too! Glad it resonated with you!
That last one is a HUGE hurdle. Total opposite in London where I lived and studied. Fell in love because of the love and understanding I found in the city.
Yeah it's verryyy difficult. If it weren't for my friends - I definitely would've lost it already lol.
Mel on the Move I think the folks in the bigger cities like Seoul Korea find it easier but the ones that I know that taught in the smaller towns found it particularly challenging. Glad you found your tribe that are keeping you sane!
cute glasses:) i love your hairstyle. you are a pioneer. haters be gone. black girl magic!
thank you :)) #BGM all day
This put me at ease, my family always doubts me about going to Korea. They think because of my race Korea will effect me negatively. But maybe I'll visit before I commit to a lifestyle there. Also my hair is crazy and wild I wear it like that everyday.
I'm glad it could help! If you can visit before, I'd definitely recommend! The more prepared for what to expect, the better :)
Awesome List! Thank you for this video!!
thanks for watching :)
I have been living in South Africa for a year and I started my internship 5 months ago. I feel like quitting because the other interns always speak in their own language and that's so depressing to me. I feel so excluded because they don't even try to speak english around me, it's like they don't care. Anyway, thanks for your video
I hope you were able to complete your internship. Sorry you felt that way. ❤
Apologies
Child, don't you dare worry about why they don't understand.. you have hair like YOUR MESSIAH! It's beautiful and that is THEIR problem... but I know you already know that. God Bless!
Thank you this is what I needed
Your camera is so on point. Clearer than most TV and Movie productions.👌
So happy having found your channel Mel. Love u
aw!! me too!
Thanks for doing this video. It really helped to reign in my eagerness to come to Korea (In a good way). Makes me feel like I'll be more prepared. Could you do a video on your preparation and progress in your EPIK application.
your videos are so helpful ! i am planning to do epik when i'm old enough, but that's far away since i'm just thirteen at the moment. i am learning korean and i would just love to go to south korea when i can- the only thing is my gran thinks it's strange and my brothers would make fun of me and just discourage me if i ever told them. you're an inspiration to me, and i just want to thank you for making these types of videos ❤️
Love and appreciate this video so much. You truly are a cultural ambassador! I spent time in Japan teaching and my big curly hair was definitely new and shocking to them as well. I'm almost sure that although you get looks, there are just as many people who think your hair is absolutely beautiful!
I think that you are gaining experience professionally and personally. Those experiences are valuable. About feeling lonely...that could be anywhere and I can relate to you. I came from another country to teach in the US and even though you meet a lot of people most of them don't stay in your life.
I would love to go to Korea one day. I love their Korean dramas and their beauty products. They have some good movies too. Keep making the videos, we are listening and learning from your experiences. :)
I am so happy that I have stumbled upon your channel. You are so real about moving to Korea. I am looking at my options after high school and one of them is going to Korea. It's almost crazy that you are also from Florida. 😂❤️
I just found your channel and I really like your videos ❤️
I'm from Florida too! The timezone is crazzzyyy. If it's 1 AM here in FL, it's 2 PM there in Korea.
yeah it's so real and now even worse bc of daylight savings!
You are so beautiful. I’m sure you already know that, but ur hair and everything about you - including your personality and faith - is beautiful. Also, I appreciate your videos. I’m seriously thinking about moving to Korea and ur information helps me think about it!
If you have LITTLE in common ... it is what it is. I've encountered a few Korean immigrants here in the U.S. that have misunderstood a few of my actions and who are HIGHLY judgmental and critical. When possible I limit my interactions and avoid them.
I love your natural hairstyle, it sucks you can't do it but totally understand!
aw thanks!
Also wellll doneee on taking great move on your life
Hey love, you're so brave for traveling to another country, especially one that doesn't speak English. good luck with everything:)
Wow! I have only been here two weeks and I have already experienced all of this
Chanelle Petersen Already? D: I hope things improve for you
Really?! Well now that you've got it all out the way it can only go up for here! stay strong!
Mel on the Move
Well luckily im a very strong willed person so I'm over it already (: Thank you so much for your videos!
I just want to say your hairs is gorgeous :)
An uncommon beauty -> Mel. Who gives a flying flip about what they think about your hair? Your hair out and beautiful is who you are, no different from their hair growing out of their head. Never yield, never give up, never compromise. They freaking need to understand that this is the hair of a Black woman in all of its glorious texture and fullness. Wear it proudly. Be beautiful, be lovingly defiant in your natural self. Tell them to kiss your kimchi and that this who I am and they need to get over it already. This attitude that you have needs to change like yesterday! Never apologize for being a beautiful natural Black woman. Not in Florida, Not in South Korea, Not anywhere. You are stronger than this. Don't let me down. Seriously. It is painful to me to hear these words, to hear of this surrender. Wear it out loud and proud. God made you and he didn't make any mistakes with your hair or anything else.
lol @ kiss your kimchi!! thank you for your encouraging words!
Awesome video! So trueeee!
Thanks!
lol I honestly didn't know where you're comin at me from lol.... just saw this video in my recommended section...cheers x
Hi, it's so courageous what you're doing and I feel the same way living as a foreigner in a european country. So I completely understand what you mean.
Love from France.
I love your natural hair !
Substitute everything you said with being a 'halmoni' in Korea. That's my story! Exactly the same. Even the hair story - I have fluff for hair with lots of gray showing. And I can't camouflage it because in Korea you just don't find blond hair dye that does not turn your hair into pumpkin orange. As for trying Koreans to understand you - well that's almost impossible. I can say that with confidence after having been here for more than 8 years. But it is still better for me to be here ....
This was great! I am thinking of spending some time in Korea but I have tattoos and bright pink and purple hair!! Might have to get myself a wig for when I don't feel like being stared at...
maybe you should take Korean classes on the side :) there are classes for people who work a full time job
Yeah, that was my intention but then life got in the way lol and now I think it'd be a waste bc I'll only be around for a few more months. But if I could do it all over, I def would've!
can't wait to go to korea in June. I lve korea!
Your hair is absolutely beautiful!!!! Wear your puff and wear your hair down. It's is gorgeous and let them stare.
I love this video. I'm not sure if you mentioned where you live but I just moved here in Seoul (Sinchon area) and thank God we moved here together but I do experience the isolation with making friends when I'm alone. I'll meet people but staying in contact or actually meeting up to make friends I havent had the best luck.
glad you could relate! i live in a small town and luckily there's a sense of community among the foreigners bc there's only so many of us lol but making friends as an adult in general is just tough and then add living in a new country to the mix o.O a doozy. I hope it gets better for you though!
Realistic Rosalyn's!!! Yes!
Be yourself!! Represent!!
Girl im currently here teaching and bishhhhhhhh i completely relate. Im not renewing becuase im realistic and OPTIMISTIC. ;)
your hair is pretty!!
YOU LOOKED CUUUUUUUUUUTE!
Aw thank you!
not gonna lie. i clicked on this vid.. cuz of your face.
feeling lonely is being human. you're doing a great job!
anyway.. yes, you're cute, the hurr is cute too and i like your sweater. maybe i will like this channel too. who knows.
i love you
OMG... I relate so much. Specially the part about maintaining relationships...
The struggle is real while living abroad, but keep up with the optimism! I really do feel that having an optimistic outtake helps tons!
And by the way, you can have #debbiedowners, #wellroundedrebeccas and #realisticrosalyns... What about the optimistic people? Don`t we get a #? hahahah
Very helpful!!!
:) Glad to hear it! Thanks for watching!
You have gorgeous hair, it is a pity that you give up wearing it the way you like.
those people judging are jealous of you!! lol they need to open their mind and get over what you chose you do with your time and life.
you always cute! lol oh the hair thing....I would love to change those visual judgements....sad.
Thank you for this video!! once again opening my eyes to things I've never thought of. 😀
Amen! Haha we all should just live our lives and march to our own beats namsayinnn!! & le sigh, yeah I'd love to change it too. I'm glad you enjoyed! Thanks for watching chica :)
You have a Fineapple girl! Don't sweat being called a pineapple.
you mentioned about communication with family, how do you go about getting a phone contract in Korea and international calls?
A month after I moved, when I received my ARC (alien registration card), I got a cell phone plan with Olleh and I mostly communicate with my family via Kakao (free messaging and calling) and iMessage/ FaceTime.
You and La La should connect. I'm subscribed to the both you because I'm interested in going to Korea but as a nurse.
Hi Melody question do you still have connection in Korea especially those who travel to China I need someone who know the manufacturing hub in china send a message please.
You will NEVER get a better opportunity to learn the language than the one you have NOW. Get your hands on some books and STOP BEING LAZY and have a true Korean Experience. I'm rootin for ya😊
well thank you! it's too late now though lol I moved.
Ive always wanted to go to korea but I don’t know what job i could ever get unless its an english teacher, I’ve always wanted to be a lawyer, doctor, or astrophysicist but I don’t know if I could be able to have that kind of career. Another career I’ve considered especially in korea is to be a philologist because i know there is a stigma around mental health and that it is hard to be able to find proper and considerate treatment but at the same time that stigma might enable me to work or be taken seriously.
Hi..i was just wondering how did you get around korea/navigate and just in general live in korea without knowing korean? And also.. Since youre a teacher can you tell me more about the kind of students there? Cause im studying there soon and im kind of afraid..like i know koreans are very..whats the word against? Idk but like they find people or things that are different weird and im afraid the students there are going to be unaccepting (ya thats the word) of me.. So can you tell me more about them? Im talking about around 15-16 age group thankyou!! Love your vids💕
Vanessa Tai I've studied abroad in S. Korea last year and depending on whether you're going to study for high school or university it really depends. I can't talk about high school since I was a uni exchange but in university there are a lot of exchange students so the korean university students are more open to them since they want to do language exchange. Also it's very easy to navigate & go around Korea because their subway system is pretty awesome. There are some English apps you can use to take the Korean subway and bus which is very useful. I encourage you to at least learn Hangul because it's very easy and to pick up basic words or phrases because that can help you. You will have a great time in Korea!
I think I would visit Korea for a weak but never really stay there and think about staying
since you live in korea, do you have to bow to the people when you say thank you or sorry, or is it by choice, or do you have to do it , and would they see it as disrespect or no?
hi Melody...try to remember that many people teach just to stay in korea.i don't thing that the people in south korea realize that there are also people that teach to live in koorea on a longer term. Its thought of as the only way to "vacation" there longer them the 3 months. If you had a non-teaching salary women type job, there opinion changes. Then you have a "real job"....I know, I know. It's just food for thought.
Sometimes you feel abroad not so far from home. Like just at work for example. I was the only black woman for a while juste where I work. I live in France and I am French from West Indies. It used to be weird about my hair habits and sometimes from other black peoples I could met. Where I from that's never constitute a problem wearing our hair free 🙂
3Afwikanh YvaLôw could you explain more about those experiences, esp with other black people and their hair, please?
Do you think that I will still have to get a TEFL certificate even if I have a bachelor degree in Early Childhood Development?
Hmm, I'm not entirely sure. Maybe check the EPIK website or email a recruiter to get that specific question answered.
Mel on the Move Thanks
Yes. I know you didn't ask me, but if you are going to be an English teacher then you should get one. It makes you more marketable.
I understand completely I really enjoy your videos they really had a impacted on my decision whether or not I want to go and this is something I want to do
I'm so happy to hear that!! I'm glad I could help :)
Luckily I`m not missing things from my home country. I`m living abroad for a year and as I don`t have a close relationship with my cousins and don`t have many friends, there`s nothing to miss lol No weddings, no new babies, no birthday parties, etc.
I mainy keep in touch with my parents, my sister and my close friend.
And I`m also lucky not have my relatives judge me for leaving temporarily the country. They are quite positive about it.
As for your hair, that`s such a pity that Koreans make feel uncomfortable when you wear it the way you like it :( I do try to keep a conservative hairstyle here too (I`m in Europe though) as I`m working a private school in a very small town with mostly white people.
I would like to visit korea but I'm afraid of planes and plane crashes so I guess I'm good.
hello Mel, I'm new here and I really like your videos. But as you spoke about misunderstanding language barrier wise, I'd like to know if I'm misunderstanding you in any way, cause it might be since I'm from Brazil. idk, you looked pretty sad about the hair issue, is that so? I mean, of course it bothers you but does it really affect you? If so, you shouldn't let things like that get to you, you look so beautiful in whatever hairstyle you're rocking, girl, not to mention that you have such a nice vibe... the Koreans seem very judgemental from what I've heard (not just from you) so you shouldn't care about them.
안녕히 계세요!
peace ❤
hey! thanks for your kind words. the hair issue does affect me - I didn't really realize how much so, until I filmed this to be honest! It's a lot harder said than done to just not care about what they think/ say but I am definitely going to try to wear the hairstyles I prefer more my last few months here vs doing what I've been doing :)
Please do an apartment tour xx
Search for EPIK apartment tours and they're generally all set up the same :)
Oh okay thanks❤ love your videos xx
wear your hair the way you like. if they say you look like a pineapple then... say thank you... that will throw them off.
I just do a little fake smile but I can't explain to them that I'm not flattered to be called "pineapple teacher", ya know. Idk it's harder said that done to just not care. But I'm going to try more these next few months! Thanks for your suggestion :)
Mel on the Move aww Pineapple teacher
Hi! Sorry for my mistakes in English it's not my native language. I'm watching your video to get more interesting vocabulary like phrasal words (there is plenty of that in your speeches, thanks). Another reason for watching it, you know, you talk about so common thing for different people (I mean even different races, I'm a white). I moved out of my hometown to live and work abroad. For the first time, all things didn't cease to amaze me, I was excited about everything new and tended to taste it in the different meaning of this word. You are right, time is flying, so in one year I've started to feel so similar things with yours. I mean misunderstanding and isolation. I suppose it's relevant for all countries where people are talking in another language than you and their point of view on everything differs from yours. And I suppose in this context people in the US are supposed to be much more free than in other world. Just keep doing what do you do if you like it! You are awesome and you've known already how to navigate these weird stuff.
I personaly think that after 3 years are gone you will realiz that korea isn't that what, you nead and will go back home to your family and Friends and have much more fun and will also find job that suits you
Do you like the food in Korea? Do you miss American food?
everyone i see that goes to Korea from America is from florida lol and i'm from Florida too
I'm an introvert so I think the first lesson won't comply to me.
Ugh yes, that conflict with your family being excited you are out living your life and at the same time being .... when are you coming back home? Tricky feelings to navigate. @ariwanders
Gurley wear yo hair however you want😎
you right, it was hard though.
T^T you should still wear it down anyway, alwayysss oook!!!! your hair is cute walk with confidence with that haiirr!!!!! regardless of the comments and looks x...x
I started to wear the puff again lol baby steps!
Mel on the Move
yaayyyy!!
I think the phrase you were looking for was "double edged sword"
Have you tried connecting and making friends with other Americans or Koreans who speak English well who are near your area?
yeah, all of my friends are either fellow foreigners teaching English or Koreans who speak English lol
Mel on the Move That's great! I was wondering if they were friends who you met in person or connected with online first. Because I've heard of online media where you can makes friends with international people.
Do you know about Alexandrea Reid? You should look into her
I really want to move to korea but i dont know how to speak korean.
Why are you not staying in Korea?
I'm going to make a video all about why but long story short, it's time to start a new chapter. Moving here, for me, was never going to be a permanent thing.
what camera do you use? Your video is soo clear
Thanks! This was shot on a Canon G7X.
subscribed
thanks! welcome to my channel :)
hey, i was thinking.. it would be that bad to say to koreans 'hey you are making me feel unconfortable' or things like that, when they talk about your hair or say other weird things..? did you ever considerate that?
cos i've been wacthing a lot of foreigners that live in korea saying the same thing, that koreans can sometimes act in a incovinient way, but they always says 'but thats ok, it's just the way they are'. Like, i understand, im not from usa and i now people's culture can be different, but did you ever said things like 'please stop that, its making me feel bad' or something?
cos, even if they are different they can still understand when they are being rude if someone tells them.. Like, i dont think you need to fight or be gross to someone to make they understand they are doing a UGH thing aahahahaha BUT, i'm not saying that what you lived it's your fault cos you didnt stand up, im really NOT sayin this, cos its stupid think like that and i dont now what you experienced, im just curious of how you deal with that, cause sounds really bothersome this attitude that koreans can have :/
i hope you're fine tho, i really like your videos and you convinced me to go teach in korea hahaha i just dont have the money to the trip, but oh god, i really wanted to
hey! really great questions. I've tried but it goes back to the miscommunication thing. they don't really understand or FEEL me when I try to tell them that something they're saying is rubbing me the wrong way. It's just lost in translation so I've stopped trying to explain and just grin and bear it, which isn't the best either but yeah. I just try not to take it personal & I'm glad my vids could inspire you!
Those hashtags though
Are u more fluent in Korean yet?
Girl u better rock that puff and look like a fineapple
lol!
Judgements or Judgments?
They also seem extremely judgmental. Pretty sure i'm wrong when it comes to every asian but just the ones there where black people are uncommon.
Yes, they kind of are. Within themselves and to others. Because the society is so homogeneous, anyone who is different isn't really celebrated but rather looked at like "ummm get it together". if that makes sense lol!
Lol! It makes plenty of sense. Also i'm glad you agree.
gat no friend's? ka-talk me
looks like a pineapple😂😂😂 that's hilarious
lol! yeah true story.
You should’ve told them “I taste like pineapples too 🍍😋🍍😋”
Hi you're insanely beautiful, humorous and smart 😍. Marry me please