When I first boarded the plane from South Africa to South Korea, I carried with me a suitcase full of curiosity, hope, and a few nerves. I didn’t know exactly what to expect, but I was eager to explore life beyond the familiar — to experience new traditions, embrace new challenges, and grow in ways I never imagined.

Teaching English in Korea has been more than a job; it has been a journey of self-discovery, cultural exchange, and deep appreciation. From my first day in the classroom, I was met with the warm smiles and enthusiastic greetings of my students, their eagerness to learn as contagious as my excitement to teach. While language was sometimes a barrier, laughter, patience, and shared moments of understanding bridged that gap quickly.

What has struck me the most is the inclusivity and richness of Korean culture. Korean people are incredibly proud of their traditions — from the reverence shown in ancestral rites to the harmony found in sharing a meal of kimchi, rice, and soup. Yet, what’s even more beautiful is how welcoming they are to those willing to learn and appreciate their way of life.

I’ve had the privilege of celebrating Chuseok, wearing a hanbok, and being invited into homes for family dinners where I was treated like one of their own. I’ve stood in awe at palaces in Seoul, wandered through vibrant markets, and sung my heart out in late-night karaoke rooms. These moments weren’t just about sightseeing — they were about connection, respect, and shared humanity.

As a South African, I’ve also found subtle threads that connect our cultures. Both South Africa and Korea are rooted in a deep respect for elders, a strong sense of community, and a resilient spirit born from complex histories. There is beauty in our diverse traditions, whether it’s a Zulu dance performed under African skies or a Korean drumming performance echoing through the mountains. There is pride in our languages, our food, our music, and the stories we tell.

Sharing my own culture with my students and colleagues has been equally rewarding. From talking about the “Rainbow Nation” to introducing them to South African slang or music, I’ve felt a sense of purpose — like I’m not only teaching English, but also building bridges between two beautiful worlds.

Living in Korea has taught me the power of empathy, adaptability, and open-heartedness. It has shown me that we may come from different corners of the world, but we are all connected through kindness, curiosity, and the desire to belong.

As I reflect on my time here, I am filled with gratitude — for the friendships I’ve made, the students I’ve taught, and the life I’ve lived in this unique chapter of my story. I know that no matter where life takes me next, a part of my heart will always remain in Korea.