Fire Please

In the Korean language, there is a group of phonetic sounds that are deceivingly similar to the non-native ear. Words that start with the M, B, and P consonants are often misheard when listening to a quick conversation. This mix-up could lead to devastating consequences when one receives a blast of fire when they really asked for a glass of water.



Above: A video on Youtube describing the differences. Additionally, even though his use of English is basic, we're able to understand the challenging concept he is presenting, perhaps even better that if his English were at native fluency. Taking it a step further, this video might never have been made, had the concern for perfect articulation outweighed the necessity of communication.