On the 16th, the MBC Every1 variety show "Welcome, First Time in Korea" featured French broadcaster Fabian, who was shown passing the Korean History Proficiency Test. Photo by MBC Every1 "Welcome, First Time in Korea"
[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Min Junyoung] Fabian, a French-born broadcaster, has passed the Korean History Proficiency Test.
On the 16th, the MBC Every1 variety show "Welcome, First Time in Korea?" featured 12-year Korea resident Fabian preparing for the Korean History Proficiency Test.
In the broadcast, Fabian began by saying, "I became interested in Korea after learning Taekwondo and first visited Korea in 2007 on a trip."
He said, "I set a big goal earlier this year to pass Level 1 of the Korean History Proficiency Test. I have long been interested in Korean history, have collected historical materials, and have been active in related activities. I also work as a professional guide at the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History."
When Alberto asked why he was preparing for the exam, Fabian replied, "I have lived in Korea for over 10 years, and I thought it would be good to know more about the history of the country I live in."
Fabian met Choi Taeseong, an online Korean history lecture instructor, one week before the exam.
Regarding why he met Choi Taeseong, Fabian explained, "If it weren't for the teacher, studying Korean history would have been difficult. I made an appointment via DM with the teacher, who was an SNS friend, to learn the secrets to passing the exam."
Choi Taeseong asked, "Why did you decide to challenge the Korean History Proficiency Test? You may know this, but the pass rate is over 40%. It's a difficult exam even for Koreans, so why are you taking it?"
Fabian responded, "I act in period dramas such as 'Jejungwon,' 'Dr. Jin,' and 'Mr. Sunshine,' where I play the role of a Western foreigner."
He continued, "You can think that 99% of French people do not know about the French Campaign against Korea (Byeongin Yangyo). French people are surprised when they hear about it at history museums because it is not included in the French education curriculum," expressing regret.
After taking the Korean History Proficiency Test, Fabian sat on a nearby pavilion and began self-scoring.
He expressed regret, saying, "This was a question I knew but got wrong by mistake," but he scored 96 points and passed Level 1 of the Korean History Proficiency Test.
He added, "I always set new challenges and goals and try to take on new challenges. I think living in Korea has brought about many such opportunities. Koreans have a spirit of challenge, so I have been influenced by that. Now, I think I can do a little more."
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