We have four types of lessons, all of which relate to the Korean Language: oral, writing, grammar, and sociolinguistics. This latter one is about the history and structure of the Korean language. Basically, in that class, the teacher was trying to convince us that the Korean language was unique and the first of its kind.

I remember that during the application process, we had to fill out a form explaining what kind of classes we would like to get in Pyongyang. I asked to have history and international relations classes along with Korean language ones. Maybe I was too naive, but I was really hoping they’d agree! Of course, when I arrived, I realized that I would be learning only Korean.

“DELPINE!” (yes, my name is pronounced like this in Korean as there is no ‘f’ sound). The teacher is calling my name, it startles me. I was daydreaming, I didn’t realize she was talking to me. “Yes?” I say, blushing. I don’t like to be on the spot. “Can you give us the answer to question 3 of the exercise you had to do for today?”. Oh no… I didn’t do it. I had decided to go for karaoke with the Chinese students last night and didn’t do the homework. I apologize to her, very ashamed of myself.

She then tells me: “Well, since you did not do your homework, you will receive a punishment. Stand up.” I obey. “Now sing the song of the University we learned last time”. This song is about the glory of Korea that can be achieved by always studying harder and harder. So yes, my “punishment” was to sing the Kim Il Sung University song in front of all the other students. I felt quite embarrassed as singing is far from being my best talent.

After our last class of the day, it was time to go back to the dormitory to eat lunch. I decided to first drop by the university cafeteria and buy an “injobap”, which is rice inside of a sort of ‘crêpe’ with some chili sauce. I ended up becoming obsessed with this little snack, so every time I had the chance I would buy it. I then walked back to the dorms, not forgetting to bow to the Kim Jong Il statue.

After lunch, it’s nap time for the Korean students. Despite our complaining, we (French students) have to wait for our Korean friends to wake up so we can go visit a site in the afternoon. Today it’s the War Museum of Pyongyang, or the so-called “Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum”. Yes, because North Korea won the Korean War; that is what they explain in the Museum. But that story is for another chapter!