To all the classes: FYI 

 

What do these words mean?

• foreigner = a person who is not native in the country

• expat (expatriate) = a resident (a resident is a preson who works and or lives in a place) in the country

• tourist = a person who travels 

 

So, what would be the best way to use these words?

• There can be many arguments as to how these words can be used in different countries however, here in Korea:

 

                 1.  a "foreigner" has been used as "us" vs "you" way. It may   be technically correct to use the word "foreigner" to describe anyone that is not Korean however it does carry the connotation of discrimination or separation.  We all know this is not a nice feeling.  This term "foreigner" is best left to be used as a technical term as  in more writing or debates rather than in everyday speeches.

 

                 2. an "expat" is used to describe a "foreigner" who is living and or working in Korea.  They have been living and mostly working here for a long time.  Although, it may have Originated from a negative connotation, it is now being used more positively and the best way to describe people who is a non-native Korean living in Korea.

 

                 3. a "tourist" is a person who is travelling.  If you must distinguis the origin of the tourist, you may use a  "foreign tourist" or an "international tourist".  

                     *International students is also the best way to describe non-native Korean students

 

Summary:

• "foreigners" = used more for documents and technical speeches

• "expats" = to describe non-native Koreans working and living in Korea

• "tourists" = to describe people travelling in Korea

 

 

                                                          updated: October 23