What 19 Years in Localization Taught Me About Learning Korean (Podcast)
Today, my guest episode on JEI TV Korean's Doran Doran Korean Podcast was released! 🎉
For the first time, you'll hear me speaking Korean for about an hour!
I talk about the journey that led me here—from spending 19 years in English-to-Korean localization to leading the Korean language team for one of the world's biggest streaming services, and how that experience eventually became ToonToon Korean.
Along the way, I share some funny real-life localization stories.
Like why translating word-for-word often fails...
and why context—not vocabulary lists—is the real key to learning Korean.
We also talk about why stories and illustrations make Korean easier to remember, how repetition happens naturally inside a good story, and practical learning tips you can start using today.
If you've ever wondered why my books are written the way they are...
...this episode explains everything.
I hope you enjoy it!
The entire conversation is in Korean with Korean subtitles. If you'd like subtitles in your own language, simply turn on YouTube's CC.
I hope you have fun—and learn something new!
고맙습니다. 즐겁게 시청하세요!
Written by Saehee Um
Saehee Um is the creator of ToonToon Korean and the author of illustrated novels for Korean learners. Her books combine binge-worthy storytelling, real-life dialogue, and cultural insights to make learning Korean engaging and fun.
She writes Korean learning novels presented in a K-drama-style script, helping learners improve their Korean through dramatic stories and immersive dialogue.
