After graduating from the Department of English Translation and Interpreting at Izmir University of Economics (IUE), Aybüke Cihan (25) chose South Korea for her master’s studies and quickly gained popularity with her achievements. Pursuing her education in the field of ‘linguistics’ with a scholarship, Cihan won first place in the Korean Speaking Contest organized by The Korea Times newspaper. Cihan, who made a speech on the cultural similarities between Turkey and South Korea, recorded it on video, and submitted it for the competition. Standing out with her command of the Korean language and her effective speaking skills, she outperformed all other contestants.
Before even graduating from IUE Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Department of English Translation and Interpreting, Aybüke Cihan made the most of the opportunities presented to her. She initially went to South Korea as an exchange student through a bilateral agreement between IUE and Hallym University.
PROVED HER TALENT
Deeply fond of South Korea and adapting quickly to life there, Cihan continued on to a master’s degree in the country, supported by a letter of recommendation and guidance from Dean, Prof. Dr. Neslihan Kansu Yetkiner. Now studying ‘linguistics’ at Korea University, Cihan has taken the first successful step in her career. She earned the top spot in the Korean Speaking Contest, supported by the Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, proving her talent in foreign languages.
“LANGUAGE IS NOT JUST WORDS”
Expressing her happiness living in South Korea, Cihan said, “As a student of linguistics, I know that a language is not just composed of words; that every sound carries a culture and a spirit. When I began learning Korean, I also started learning about the history, values, and emotions of the Korean people. During this process, I realized that language is not just a tool for communication; it’s crucial for understanding, empathy, and connection. Speaking Korean has brought me not just a new language, but a second heart, a second homeland, and countless friendships. I believe these are the real reasons behind my success in the competition.”
“THE SOUTH KOREAN PEOPLE REALLY LOVE US”
Stating that South Koreans have great affection for Turks, Cihan said, “I never felt like a foreigner here. I adapted very quickly to South Korea. The close bond and friendship the Korean people feel toward Turkish people remains strong. When I say I’m Turkish, they get excited and want to talk to me. I believe I made the right decision in coming to South Korea. It’s too early to say exactly how my career will unfold. I might work in international companies or in another field where I can develop myself. There’s also a strong possibility that I’ll continue living in South Korea. I’ll make those decisions after completing my master’s. The Office of International Affairs at my University and my professor Neslihan played a huge role in helping me get to know South Korea and study here. I’m grateful to both my University and all my professors, especially to Prof. Dr. Neslihan. They believed in me and opened a wonderful path. No matter where I am, I’ll keep working hard to represent my country in the best way possible.”
“I BELIEVED I WOULD WIN”
Sharing more details about the competition, Cihan said. “The competition format involves selecting a topic, evaluating it, and submitting a video recording. I wanted to talk about the cultural similarities between Turkey and Korea. The strong family bonds and warm interpersonal relationships here are similar to our culture. I prepared a video where I included examples from Turkish culture as well and submitted it to the competition. I believed I would win an award and succeed in the competition. This contest is highly prestigious and valuable for students like me who come to South Korea from abroad. I’m happy and proud to have won the award.”
