Language. Modern Korean is closely akin to Japanese in structure, and there is no lack of analogues in the terms of the two tongues; both are thought to be of Turanian origin, and Korean bears much the same relation to Japanese that Italian does to Spanish. Japanese and Koreans learn each others' language easily, and communicate readily by the written characters -- many of which are of Chinese origin. As in Japan, specially literate classes introduce archaic Chinese frequently into their conversation, and two written languages, stilted Chinese and a derived demotic, are used side by side. The Korean alphabet, or On-mun, said by expert sinologues to be one of the most perfect in the world, was invented by Se jong in 1451, but it is disdained by literates, whose education is usually in the Chinese classics. The masses can usually read their own script. The tongue is a difficult one for foreigners to acquire; unlike Japanese it is full of ungallant epithets which the proletariat use with scandalous inelegancy. Scalding invective is their strong point, and sensitive persons who have to overhear them are fortunate in not knowing the language. The vituperative epithet of the Koreans is 'son of a rat,' a somewhat meaningless expression which reflects on one's father -- usually an object of veneration by the Korean son. Nom (fool) when applied in a contemptuous tone, is apt to provoke quick physical retaliation; emi, the root form for 'mother,' if used in a disparaging accusation (referring to ancestry and moral purity), is very offensive to Koreans, and often stirs up a fight. The name of the Creator is never taken in vain.

Korean Literature is said not to repay one for the time spent in studying it. The inspiration is chiefly Chinese; the natives lack the ardent imagination of certain Orientals, and literary themes too often turn to erotic things. Love songs are popular, and some of them are not lacking in grace; the following stanza (one of four) translated by Mr. Gale, is often quoted: --

'Silvery moon and frosty air;

Eve and dawn are meeting;

Widowed wild goose flying there,

Hear my words of greeting!

On your journey should you see

Him I love so broken-hearted,

Kindly say this word for me,

That it's death when we are parted.

Flapping off the wild goose clambers,

Says she will if she remembers.'