Mariya Kosinova – Seoul, South Korea
Kyiv Post: Where are you from in Ukraine?
Mariya Koshinova: I’m from town named Krasnodon, which is located in Luhansk Oblast.
KP: When did you leave; why did you leave?
MK: I left Ukraine in August 2009 to study in Korea as a follower of the Korea Foundation Scholarship Program.
KP: How did you end up in Korea?
MK: Seoul, South Korea, however I don’t consider this place as an end.
KP: Do you ever regret that you are not in Ukraine – why or why not?
MK: From time to time, I wish I was still in Ukraine doing my best for my country and have a career started. The cultural differences I face here make me homesick and the fact I am surrounded by Koreans — not Ukrainians — is stressful sometimes as well.
KP: What do you miss most about Ukraine?
MK: Our people and atmosphere of cheerfulness and joyfulness. Such a pity Koreans don’t allow themselves live their lives happily.
KP: What do you miss least about Ukraine?
MK: Crime and corruption.
KP: Does Korea have more opportunities for you than in Ukraine?
MK: Yes.
KP: What relatives/friends are left back in Ukraine?
MK: All my family and all friends. I came to Korea alone and made new friends here.
KP: Do they visit you or do you visit them? Often?
MK: It is kind of expensive to go visit Ukraine or make my family come here. So by now we communicate via Skype using a web camera.
KP: With Ukraine coming up to its 20th anniversary of national independence, how do you feel about your homeland? Is it making progress as a nation? Or not so much? What would it take for you to return?
MK: I wish things could be way better in Ukraine. If I had had the slightest chance to stay in Ukraine and keep working there, I would have used it! I love my country. However, the situation is so unfavorable there that I had no other way.
With great potential and good geographic location, Ukraine still remains an agricultural country. Isn’t it amazing? We need to raise patriotism in our children’s hearts, so when they become great politicians, economists, diplomats, engineers and so on they would build strong, safe, beautiful and happy country!
KP: What do you wish for your country?
MK: I wish we would finally start thinking about our future and future of our children. We cannot stay aside anymore. Using our own resources and historical
base, we have to find a key for success and prosperity! It is time to act!
KP: Do you think that wish will come true?
MK: I hope with all my true heart! Ukrainians have to keep going on! Dream! Create! Act! Our wonderful country deserves the best!
