Finnish Julia is a familiar sight on South Korean TV – One thing always puzzles them
Julia Bärlund, a Finnish woman, often appears on South Korean television to discuss Finnish sauna culture, which fascinates her South Korean audience.
Julia Bärlund, a 31-year-old Finnish woman, has made a name for herself on South Korean television by discussing the Finnish practice of sauna culture. Her insights often leave the South Korean audience curious and amused, showcasing the differences and similarities between Finnish and Korean customs. Bärlund's fluency in Korean allows her to engage deeply with the audience and share her experiences as a foreigner in South Korea.
Bärlund's journey began when she moved to South Korea for a student exchange program at the age of 17, having previously visited the country and developed an interest in its language and culture. Initially struggling with the language, she overcame her self-consciousness to communicate effectively with her South Korean peers. After her exchange year, she invested her savings into frequent trips to South Korea, which led her to eventually enroll in a university in Seoul in 2016.
Now residing in Seoul with her Korean husband, Bärlund continues to contribute to discussions about Finnish culture, helping to bridge the gap between the two countries. Her presence on television not only entertains but also educates South Koreans about Finland, highlighting the cultural curiosity that fuels her media appearances.