Korean Job Discussion Forums

[oldtrafford]

Even though the Korean accent is usually pretty strong, at least it is comprehensible, which is more than I can say for some demographics that use English at a much higher level.

So true, the Geordies, scousers and those from the black country (Bristol area) make it a wee bit difficult!!!

[some waygug-in]

If you are seeing more young Koreans speaking fluent English with good pronunciation, I would guess it's more a testament to having access to good teachers and English resources than anything to do with being Korean.

I only wish that more Koreans would follow suit and work on proper pronunciation of English, because unlike you, I had boatloads of students, teachers and co-workers (all Korean) whose pronunciation was awful.

[Whistleblower]

My final contribution to this thread: I went to a pronunciation teacher training workshop this evening and the one thing that was mentioned was to make teaching pronunciation a physical activity. Get students involved in noticing stress, rhythm, consonant clusters, etc and they will improve within two months.

Anyhow, much of the pronunciation is related to memory and information processing theory (google it if you don't know it). Once students are able to stretch their vocal and facial muscles, they will improve.

Have fun with the students to ensure that they are able to enjoy pronunciation activities.

[ulsanchris]

Could it be that after being in Korea for a time you become desensitized to the Korean accent, and stop noticing it as much. If you were to go away for awhile and then directly compare a panel of people from various countries you might get a result different from your premise.