A study on Korean proficiency and Uzbek students’ adaptation to Korean culture

Abstract

This study explored the adaptation to Korean culture through phenomenological research on the advanced level of Korean among Uzbek students studying at domestic universities. The results of an in-depth interview with three Uzbek students are as follows. First, Uzbek students learned Korean through acquaintances and media even before coming to Korea and showed strength in speaking but difficulty in writing and learning Chinese characters. Second, Uzbek students regularly interacted and formed close relationships with Koreans. Third, Uzbek students had a high understanding of Korean food-related idioms and culture, tried to actively accept Korean-style personnel culture, and above all, enjoyed Korean dramas. However, they were not familiar with the culture of young Koreans who spoke informally and quickly when they became close. Fourth, Uzbek students found it difficult to adapt to food containing pork for religious reasons, and they felt awkward because the Korean language learned in their hometown or through the media was radically different from that used by young Koreans. They also had difficulties dealing with school administration and adapting to portal sites, and they faced substantial difficulties getting a part-time job.