Nari A   

★★★★★

Learn Korean language from a cerfitied teacher!

What is your favorite word in your language and why?

Among the Korean lexicon, my preferred word is "나리." This term holds a dual significance, denoting both a wild lily and the natural course of a stream as it journeys from mountainous origins to the vastness of the ocean. While "나리" is also my given name, bestowed upon me by my father, my affinity for this word extends beyond personal identification. I am particularly drawn to its inherent symbolism of resilience and unwavering determination, qualities that resonate deeply with my own character.

What is your favorite dish from your hometown? If you no longer live there is there a good local restaurant that serves it?

I am from Busan, South Korea. Busan is the second-largest city and boasts an impressive array of seafood dishes. My favorite dish is 중국집 해물우동[JungGukJipHaeMulUDong], which translates to Chinese-style seafood noodle soup. The hot bowl of fresh seafood, such as mussels, shrimp, squid, and oysters, in rich anchovy broth with vegetables, not to forget the handmade, chewy noodles! My mouth is already watering thinking about the soup!! If you visit Busan, Korea, please try this old-fashioned seafood noodle soup at 이가해물짬뽕!

Besides the languages you teach, do you speak or study any other languages?

As a dedicated language enthusiast, my academic pursuits have encompassed Mandarin Chinese, Polish, Spanish, and Italian. Currently, my primary linguistic focus is on Italian. I find the process of speaking Italian to be particularly invigorating and personally fulfilling, and I am deeply appreciative of its rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions. My annual summer visits to Italy, where my husband is originally from, Naples, further fuel my aspiration for fluency. I am eager to achieve a high level of proficiency in Italian to foster deeper connections with friends and family residing in Italy.

What are your interests outside of teaching at Strommen?

My passion lies in travel, coupled with a keen interest in the historical context of the destinations I explore. In periods when I am not traveling, I dedicate my time to creative writing in Korean. I aspire to complete my first novel soon.

What do you consider your hometown? Why do you love it?

New York City is the only place I can call my hometown. I came to the U.S. as a foreign student and started living in New York City about 35 years ago. I haven't left the city since then. I have traveled to many countries and cities, but no place is like New York City. The streets are filled with dynamic energy from people from all over the world who are ambitious, curious, cultured, and brave. I am so fortunate to have found a hometown in the U.S.