I studied some Japanese in college in 1991 and 1992. In 1995 I joined the U.S. Army and asked to be sent to Japan (on my dreamsheet, along with choice of Colorado for domestic permanent station). So, the Army sent me to Korea (I learned later the Army doesn't have the presence the Navy and Marines do in Japan).

So I spent my lunches learning Hangul, and as a driver I had many opportunities to read signs along the road...when I would memorize one, for instande "부동산", I would ask a Korean Auxiliary to the U.S. Army soldier (KATUSA) what it means...so my vocabulary slowly increased.

When my tour ended, I stayed in Korea from 1997 to 1999 attending Yonsei University, Foreign Language Institute. I graduated from their 6 level program in 1999 and returned to the states. My Korean wife and I got married like it was 1999.

I have been active in the Korean community since returning to the states. I translate the sermon at church both written and then audibly, live (using my written translation as a crutch).

Please note: I do not post without letting my native, Korean wife check the information.