Seo Jang-hoon Offers Heartfelt Advice to Japanese Wife Facing Communication Challenges

Broadcaster Seo Jang-hoon extended sincere advice to a Japanese woman who shared her struggles with communication in Korea.

On the 332nd episode of KBS Joy's 'Ask Anything' (Mu-U-Mu-Bo) aired on the 8th, a couple who had entered into an international marriage appeared as guests.

The Japanese wife confided in the show, stating, "While I talk a lot with my husband, I find it difficult to converse with Koreans once I go outside the house." Seo Jang-hoon inquired if she had a naturally shy personality, to which her husband explained that as the eldest son of a traditional family, he often faces situations with over 20 relatives during holidays, and gets tongue-tied when multiple people speak to him at once.

The wife added, "My in-laws treat me so well, and I want to live up to their expectations, but I can't. I've even cried in front of my husband. It's a bit difficult," revealing her emotional hardship due to communication barriers. Seo Jang-hoon praised her Korean proficiency, noting, "The fact that you used the phrase 'wanting to live up to expectations' is a word that's hard for a foreigner to use even after learning Korean for three years."

Seo Jang-hoon encouraged the couple, advising, "Have confidence. Your voice sounds like it's bouncing off the listener's ears. It's a voice that trails off. If you speak clearly, distinctly, and loudly, your skills are sufficient. Think of conversations as training to improve your Korean, even if you feel shy. Continuously engage in small talk naturally."

Seo Jang-hoon, a former professional basketball player, is renowned as a 'legend of Korean basketball.' After retiring, he transitioned into variety shows, earning the nickname 'The Nation's Advisor.' On 'Ask Anything,' his characteristic blunt yet warm advice resonates deeply with viewers.