GMBA Alumnus Sean Shin Conquers “Mandarin Monster”中文怪物 Credits Cross-Cultural Environment

國際事務室暨GMBA辦公室

撰文者／GMBA學生Violetta、GMBA辦公室

The National Taiwan University Global MBA (GMBA) program is celebrating a unique achievement: alumnus Sean Shin (申聖贊) from South Korea has emerged victorious in the demanding “Mandarin Monster” (中文怪物) language challenge, a popular YouTube series pitting non-native speakers against advanced Mandarin tasks.

Following his impressive victory, Mr. Shin sat down for an exclusive interview to discuss the drive behind his participation and the central role his GMBA experience played in his linguistic success.

When asked what prompted him to join the fiercely competitive contest, Shin explained it was primarily a desire for self-assessment. “I decided to participate to test my Chinese proficiency and to interact with participants from various countries,” Shin stated.

He quickly pointed to the influence of his graduate program. “Throughout my GMBA studies, the constant opportunities to collaborate with classmates from diverse cultural backgrounds made me realize that language is not just a tool for communication, but a vital bridge connecting people and cultures.” This international environment, he noted, served as a powerful incentive to plunge into mastering Chinese and expressing himself more naturally.

For his former classmates and aspiring language learners, Shin offered clear, actionable advice. His primary tip: prioritize frequency over flawless execution.

“First of all, don’t focus too much on speaking perfectly,” he advised. “It’s much more important to speak often and not be afraid of making mistakes.” He recalled his own learning curve, noting that consistency and receiving feedback gradually built his confidence.

Beyond practice, Shin encouraged students to reframe their approach, viewing Chinese not merely as an academic subject but as a dynamic connector of cultures. He specifically recommended actively utilizing GMBA and NTU’s resources, such as language exchange programs, to experience Taiwanese culture while improving communication skills.

Ultimately, Shin’s victory underscores the value of immersion and confidence. “Taiwanese people are incredibly kind and welcoming,” he concluded. “Do not be afraid to approach them and have lots of conversations. Your Chinese will naturally grow through real communication!”