Mistakes I Made My First Year in Korea

Mistakes I Made My First Year in Korea

My first year in Korea was exciting, confusing, and full of mistakes. Coming from a Polynesian background, I thought I was open-minded and adaptable—but Korea humbled me fast. Looking back, those mistakes taught me lessons I couldn’t have learned any other way.

1. Assuming English Was Enough

I thought speaking English would get me through daily life. It didn’t. Ordering food, reading signs, or asking for help became stressful. I quickly realized that even basic Korean—simple greetings and phrases—make life easier and show respect.

2. Not Taking the Weather Seriously

I underestimated Korean winter. Big mistake. I arrived with light jackets, thinking I’d “adjust.” I didn’t. The cold hit harder than expected, and I learned the hard way that good coats, gloves, and heat packs aren’t optional—they’re survival tools.

3. Expecting Island Warmth Right Away

Back home, people smile and talk easily. In Korea, people can seem distant at first. I thought I was being ignored, but later I understood it wasn’t coldness—it was politeness and personal space. Once relationships form, the warmth is real.

4. Eating Like I Was on Vacation

I ate too much convenience store food and late-night meals. Korea makes it easy to snack at any hour. It caught up with me quickly, and I had to learn balance and routine.

5. Taking Things Too Personally

When people stared or asked where I was from, I felt uncomfortable. Over time, I learned most of it came from curiosity, not judgment. Understanding that changed my mindset completely.

6. Not Asking for Help

I tried to figure everything out alone—banking, housing, work rules. Korea has systems, and asking coworkers or friends for help would’ve saved me stress.

Final Thoughts

My first year in Korea was messy, awkward, and challenging—but it shaped me. The mistakes I made helped me grow stronger, more patient, and more understanding. If you’re new to Korea, make mistakes—but learn from them.

That’s how the country slowly starts to feel like home.

 


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