I Saw the Sign.

It is clear to me just how global the English language is, after having been employed fresh from University as an English language teacher in South Korea. Amongst the neon hangul signs that I spend hours on the bus translating, there are just as many English posters and signs catching the attention of foreigners and Koreans alike. And while Korea is making a tremendous effort towards proficiency of the English language, I can’t help but chuckle at grammatical errors, mis-spellings, non-sensical phrases and the occasional, accidental double entendre printed on a t-shirt, a restaurant sign or on the side of a bus. In no particular order, here are some of my favorite “English” signs spotted in Korea this year:

2 Comments on “I Saw the Sign.”

  1. Thanks for the chuckle and a great idea for a global coffeetable book. When you are nearing home look for the sign that says hamsters next seven exits. Welcome back!

  2. Ha! I saw that YES! sign when I was in Korea last year and took a photo of it! Unless there’s more than one, I believe it’s near the Nampodong shopping district of Pusan, right? I love Korean English. I had a female Korean (adult) student who wore a shirt that said, “SINGLE… and looking. Inquire within.” I thought it was so funny that I couldn’t bring myself to explain it to her.

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