Though he has never studied abroad, he is in charge of interpreting for foreign professors at international scholastic conferences and teaching professors on English speaking course; he will publish a book on his secret methods of studying English sooner or later. This is the story of Kim Kyung-eun (sophomore, Dept. of Political Science).

Act 1, Scene 1: Dreaming of President of Korea

As is often the case with innocent children, he wanted to become president of Korea. “When I was a third grader in elementary school, I adored the president who can give people hope. In those days, I sought for something worthwhile.” However, it has been his dream for over 10 years. In the meantime, he has learned to acquire eloquence skill and wants to get the chance to lead various groups of people as soon as he can.

Act 1, Scene 2: Remarkable Eloquence Skill 

He is good at catching audiences’ attention and moving their mind by his speech. Actually, he won the first prize in the oratorical contests held under the sponsorship of service civil international and government to commemorate the 70th anniversary of Gwangju Students’ Independent Movement. Also, he joined the 16~7th election campaign of National Assemblymen to give a candidate speech consulting. “At that point, I was disappointed with the reality of the political election system. Under the established circumstances that state campaign funding did not materialize, it is inevitable that a vicious cycle between politician and businessman will show up.” From the experience, he was determined to change his long-sustained dream. In addition, he participated in several public debates related to reunification, employment and diplomacy of Model United Nation Conference.    

Act 1, Scene 3: Love of God

We cannot talk about his life without God. His father is a pastor. “I respect my father because he abandoned his stable life to serve the neighborhood.” Besides, it is the Holy Bible that he chooses as the best book he has ever read. “I got much grace from God. Considering God gives all people unconditional love, I could give my mind to a neighbor without hesitation.” He said he could get over difficulties in relationships with his fellow human beings through his love of God. Also, he wants to do missionary work some day.

Act 2, Scene 1: Turning Point in His Life

All the young men in Korea may have unforgettable memories about military life. He is not an exception. After he finished his freshman days in university, he went for military service. As two years went by, he set 4 principles for his life after thinking hard. First, enjoy the work with fun. Without fun, it easily turns out to be boring and a big burden. This is the same context as the maxim, “if you are not happy, no moment can bring you joy.” Second, live a life with historical consciousness. Although contemporary young generations tend to neglect it, we must keep in mind that our present conducts will become a part of history some day. And descendants will evaluate them as we do now. Third, have perseverance. “Anything can be realized if we really wish.” As for him, he spent hard time in publishing his book. No matter how much difficulty he experienced in doing the work, he never gave it up. At last he made it. Fourth, maintain a future-orientated mind. “I think the reason somebody maintains present living is not because s/he is satisfied with life but because s/he escapes troublesome problems.”

Act 2, Scene 2: Of Learning English

According to his book, he was not interested in English when he was in high school at all because of bad memories. Then, how could he be in charge of interpreting for foreign professors in international scholastic conferences? He explained how. A shameful experience in the army made the way for change. He mistook the word ‘cancel’ for ‘cancal’ during an encounter with his superior. The ridiculous mistake hurt his pride and made him devoted to studying English. After being discharged from military service, he met a foreign friend from New Zealand. While meeting him, he had difficulties in listening comprehension and realized the limitations. He came to the conclusion that it’s better to study English not by sound, but by letters. He found out several difficulties in English listening such as a prolonged sound and sets of phrases. The only solution he thought was to approach English by sound. “We must try to be accustomed to the original sound of English words to comprehend them easily and accurately. Although it takes much time to correct the differences in pronunciation between you and a native speaker, it is the best way to make you speak English fluently.”    

Act 2, Scene 3: Finding Dream through Volunteering Service

He started to join volunteer service as a Korean teacher at the Gwangju Migrant Workers Center 6 months ago. At first, he wanted to enhance English skill through teaching Korean. However, he came to know the actual state of foreign workers’ ability was even worse than he thought. Now he is concerned about them and is paying attention to the improvement of their labor conditions.

Act 2, Scene 4: Exchange Student for a Year

In October, he is going to be sent to Tokyo Gakugei University in Japan as an exchange student. He wants to learn about ‘improvement of both human rights for migrant workers and national brand value.’ “Most of the migrant workers will go back to their country. Once we take good care of them, the national brand value of Korea will go up simultaneously.” He intends to establish an act in order to protect migrant workers’ rights. “I want to work at an international organization. To do this, I am preparing myself to enter law school and to become an international lawyer.” Moreover, he cherishes an intention to theorize territorial disputes on Dokdo Island.

“Everybody sets a timetable for life. To my dismay, a majority of people tend to make a timetable that is partially fixed by the common idea of society. For example, we are extremely afraid of being left behind. So, nowadays, people usually make plans to be a civil servant without consideration. I strongly recommend you to set your own timetable with regard to your disposition, interests, future plan, and so on.” As he emphasizes, setting one’s own timetable is important. His lifetime, composed of 7 acts and 7 scenes, has just speeded up to proceed to his own precious boat. Ceaseless concentration and passionate dreams will take him to his destination before he knows it.