Lin Xiaojun's Quest for Mandarin Mastery
Lin Xiaojun, a former Korean short track speed skater, has embarked on a journey to master the Mandarin language, driven by his perfectionist personality and his experience of being questioned about his Chinese identity due to his limited language skills. He recalled a moment when someone suggested he was not truly Chinese because of his imperfect Mandarin, which sparked his determination to prove them wrong. In a recent interview, Lin expressed his strong desire to fluently interact with the media in Chinese after the Olympics, emphasizing that his goal is not only to learn Chinese but to become proficient in it.
16 February 2025
Lin's decision to change his nationality from Korean to Chinese was a complex and personal one, influenced by various factors, including family ties, cultural experiences, and career aspirations. His brother, Lin Xiaocan, had also made a move to China, attending Beijing Language University, which exposed Lin Xiaojun to Chinese culture and way of life. Additionally, his cousin, Lin Chengrun, who was studying at Harbin Institute of Technology, and his sister, Lin Xiaoyou, who is fluent in Chinese and has a deep appreciation for Chinese culture, played a role in his decision-making process.
After switching his nationality to Chinese, Lin Xiaojun faced new challenges, including learning the Chinese language and adapting to the Chinese training system. Despite these obstacles, he persevered and eventually found success, winning gold medals in international competitions. Through his journey, Lin Xiaojun demonstrated his determination and resilience, not only learning to communicate in Chinese but also immersing himself in the culture, becoming an integral part of the Chinese short track speed skating team.
Lin's resolve to learn Chinese is also driven by his passion for Chinese culture and his desire to experience the daily life of ordinary people. He hopes to use his language skills to engage with individuals from various industries and learn from their experiences, which he believes will broaden his horizons and help him grow as a person. With his perfectionist mindset, Lin is determined to exceed his own expectations and become a true embodiment of Chinese spirit, both on and off the ice.
Lin's family and friends have been supportive of his language learning endeavors, providing him with a dedicated study area, language learning software, and even a tutor who provides weekly lessons. The academic community has also rallied around him, offering access to resources and opportunities that cater to his language learning goals. Professionally, his employer has expressed support for his language learning endeavors, recognizing the potential benefits it could bring to the company's international relations and business dealings with Chinese partners.
Lin has also found support within the cultural and community events he attends, including Chinese cultural festivals, language meetups, and volunteer work. These events have given him the chance to immerse himself in the language, practicing his listening and speaking skills in real-life scenarios. Digital platforms, social media, and language learning apps have provided him with a plethora of resources, from interactive lessons and language exchange partners to podcasts and YouTube channels dedicated to Chinese language and culture.
In conclusion, Lin Xiaojun's decision to learn Chinese is a testament to his dedication and commitment to his craft. With the support of his family, friends, and community, he is well on his way to achieving his goal of becoming proficient in Mandarin. His story serves as an inspiration, highlighting the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and the pursuit of one's goals, and underscores the broader societal value placed on linguistic and cultural competency in today's world.
