International Fans: 5 Ways To Not Feel Left Out

Ideas For International Fans Who Like Kpop/K-dramas

So you’ve started on your journey of learning more about South Korea since you’ve discovered a K-pop group or Korean drama that you really like. Yet, how do you stay connected to events/life in Korea when you live thousands of miles away?

I’ve noticed that a lot of K-pop idols and Korean dramas are using more English in their songs and tv scripts. It’s a good thing because we’ve something in common. We’re both learning a new language and hopefully learning about each other’s culture. It’s a common theme these days everyone trying to figure out what we’ve in common instead of focusing on our differences.

But how do you feel connected when you live thousands of miles away and you don’t fluently speak the language? Here are five tips on what you can do as an international fan and you’re feeling disconnected from your latest K-pop idols comeback and fan signing events.

Study Hangul

This may seem like a no brainer, or a broken record since I’ve mentioned it so many times. But if this is the first time you’ve read my blog then this is one of the best tips I can give for anyone planning on visiting Korea. Become as familiar with Hangul as you’re with your native language.

Although, you don’t need Hangul to use public transportation, eat at most restaurants, or visit major tourist attractions. Knowing the language will make your life so much easier. Being on the constant search of finding a program with English subtitles can make you feel frustrated. Overcoming this obstacle will make travel, and watching Korean programs a whole lot easier.

Korean Cooking Class

If you live in a major metropolitan area like I do here in Los Angeles, you may have noticed there are several Korean cooking classes are now being offered. If you’ve ever wanted to try your hands at making your own kimchi, research cooking classes near your area.

Create Your Own Class Tip: If there aren’t any cooking classes near your area then check out popular Korean foodie Bloggers and Youtubers. *Don’t forget to take pictures and share on social media. I promise you’re not the first person to try and cook Samgyeopsal at home and realize that you’ve purchased the wrong type of lettuce.

Dine Out: Korean Restaurants

Visiting a Korean restaurant is a great place to meet people who like Korean food and also try new dishes that are too advanced for your own budding cooking skills. Also, a great way to sample new dishes you’ve seen on the latest K-dramas or variety shows.

*I’m specifically mentioning this one since I’ve since started watching the variety show “I Live Alone” and I want to go visit Na Rae Bar and try Park Na-Rae’s home cooking.

Join Meetups/SouthEast Asia Travel Group

Travel meetups are not only helpful for planning your vacation to South Korea they’re also great for meeting new friends. You may be the type to plan your own itinerary and so you’re not planning on using a travel agent or tour group. Joining meetup groups can connect you with individuals who can recommend things to do off the beaten path and are not listed on tourist websites.

Who knows you might find a new location that you want to visit besides Seoul. There’s so much more to explore in Korea and you want to maximize your trip as much as possible. But I’m starting to get preachy so I’ll move on to the next tip.

Volunteer: KCCLA or Korean Resource Center

There are so many volunteer opportunities available that I couldn’t complete this list without mentioning this tip. Not only is this a great way to meet people who may have similar interests as you do, but it’s also a great way to give back to your community.

If you’ve have taken a Korean class or attended a Korean cultural event why not check and see if there are any volunteer opportunities. I’m familiar with the Korean Cultural Center in Los Angeles which holds monthly events and performances. I’ve attended events in the past which made me think about the people sitting at the check-in station, or the friendly person helping you to your seats or the parking attendant.

These are all ways you can volunteer without offering a large time commitment. * It’s also a great way to practice your Korean language skills.

Final Thoughts

I’ve listed things that you can do to feel connected as an international fan who lives thousands of miles away. I’ve tried to compile a list of things to do that will make you get away from the computer which offers (social media groups, and binge-worthy content) to discover your own local community.

I’ve prepared this list not only for my readers and subscribers but also for myself as I’ve recently binged on several Korean dramas. * Are you looking for new Korean dramas to watch? My recommendations: Sky Castle, The Crowned Clown, Kingdom (Netflix), and The Last Empress. Are you looking for websites to watch Korean programming check out my post on Top South Korean Variety Shows To Watch

Do you have any additional suggestions for being an international fan? Comment down below and let’s get the conversation started!

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