BY AMNA KARA (MAN/II)
Name: Sinae Kim
Department: International Relations
Country: South Korea
What do you like best about Turkey?
I love the passion and sense of humor Turkish people have.
Are there any similarities between your cultures?
Yes, that’s why Turks and Koreans are called “kan-kardeşler”! We love our country, love our people.
What is the hardest challenge you’ve overcome in Turkey?
Getting used to people staring at me on the street. And I’m still getting used to people asking me about Psy or Gangnam Style!
Do you have a favorite Turkish word?
“Kanka” or “kankardeş,” which means brother/sister by blood.
Are there any questions you’re asked frequently, or any interesting comments you’ve heard?
“Are you Chinese? Are you Japanese? Are you from North Korea?”
“Do you like being short?”
“What did you get on your exam?”
Where do you expect to see yourself in 10 years?
I will probably be pursuing my PhD or teaching at a university. Perhaps I’ll be able to speak 5 or 6 languages by then!
What will you miss most about Turkey/Bilkent?
Hearing people say “hocam” to everybody. It’s like everyone is your teacher, and you can learn something from everyone.