[From readers] Let`s study our own culture first

Several days ago, I had a meal with a foreigner who is teaching English in Korea and walked along the road in Insa-dong. The foreigner said he has traveled in 12 countries during his youth. He saw various cultures, manners and customs of many countries and is accustomed to facing new cultures.

I was embarrassed somewhat when Korea¡¯s traditional foods and housing became a topic of our conversation in Insa-dong. It was because I could not explain anything with confidence due to my ignorance of our culture. When I went abroad, I also felt that we should know ours very well in order to understand foreign culture well. By doing so, I think, we can compare with each other¡¯s cultures.

On the occasion of the 2001 Visit Korea Year, I think we should try to know ours more as a host to greet foreign guests.

Choi Joong-Kyung (Kaebong-dong, Kuro-gu in Seoul)