Introduction

 Why I chose to study Japanese:

Growing up in South Korea, I've always been exposed to the Japanese language, culture, food, and media. The first time I visited Japan was back in the winter of 2018, when me and my dad went skiing to Hokkaido. It was my first experience in a country that felt familiar yet so different at the same time. 

I remember being fascinated by the language, noticing how some words had significant overlap to Korean, which made Japenese feel more approachable and interesting. That trip left a lasting impression on me and I've always wanted to go back since. 

I couldn't find the time to do so, just until the summer of last year, when a few friends and I traveled to Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Being able to experience Japan again, this time with more independence, I once again was amazed by the culture, people, and overall experience of the trip, which made me realize I wanted to learn Japanese so I can truly appreciate the culture better.