Social Experiment: Are Chinese REALLY shocked by White People Speaking Fluent Chinese?

[@OrientalPearl]

This channel is expanding to Korean and China this year! I'll be staying in South Korea for the month of April doing an intensive language-immersion program while staying with a host family. I can't wait to share the experience with you.

[@Mekias]

That would be amazing to take a month and just immerse yourself in a language. Need to save up my vacation time and try it out! Been watching Korean dramas lately like Attorney Woo. It's fun when you finally start to pick out words and phrases. It's like opening up a whole new world.

[@rincnozid]

Look forward to it!!!

[@itiz1]

omg so cool! i'll be in south korea this April! are you planning on doing fan meeting maybe? :)

[@nightowl6393]

Awesome 🙂

[@kingdomcome7776]

Im korean is you an angel 😇 so awesome transitioning from Chinese to Japanese real talent right there. KINGDOM OF GOD IS COMING ON EARTH JOHN 3:16

[@jeremywhite92]

I'm White, I speak Chinese with a decent accent. On two occasions, I've had conversations with folks where they didn't realize we were speaking in Chinese, because they were preoccupied by something else. In one case, an old woman on the subway looked confused. I correctly guessed that she was Chinese, and asked her where she was trying to go. She told me, and I told her what stop she wanted. This conversation was entirely in Chinese, and she never seemed to register she was talking to a White guy in Chinese, because she was really concerned about what stop to get off. In another instance, two women were trying to figure out a pay barrier. I knew they spoke Chinese as I could hear them talking it. I explained to them how the barrier worked, and they thanked me -- again, never registering that I was speaking in Chinese. However their husbands, who were nearby, were cracking up.

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you for sharing your experience. It’s funny that your conversation was so smoothly they didn’t really funny realize you were speaking together in Chinese.

[@kimb868]

So awesome

[@DarrylMcGee]

This has been my favorite reaction.

[@kerrin6633]

Awesome!!!

[@ayaneagano6059]

⁠@@OrientalPearl本当にアメリカ人ですか？不自然な文章…。

[@bprdpr]

I'm African American and I learned Spanish in High-school. It's been several years and I haven't practiced any of it since graduating: however I do remember a time at a football game I started singing a Spanish song for giggles, and a passing Spanish family stopped and asked me to keep singing. It was a really feeling to actually be encouraged to do so.

[@IEMac6]

I doubt a Spanish family was passing by you in America. Maybe a Mexican family

[@bprdpr]

@@IEMac6 You're right, that was a typo on my part. Thanks.

[@OrientalPearl]

Aww, that's a very cute story. Thanks for sharing.

[@em1osmurf]

try a free online course, branch out. i was in awe: our neighborhood chinese restaurant is mostly mandarin, the cashier speaks "everything". i kid you not, from spanish to arabic she knows about 8 or 10 languages conversationally. crazy!

[@bprdpr]

@@em1osmurf That sounds incredible!

[@catbjorndestroyerofworlds8108]

when i was in japan i only spoke very minimal japanese but i remember one girl coming up to me at the mall to try and give me a napkin thing for a company and speaking rough english and i said that i was ok, but thanks in japanese and she lit up like a puppy, i felt really bad after she excitedly asked me if i spoke japanese and i had to tell her not really. So next time i go, i plan to be much better at it

[@OrientalPearl]

That's such a lovely story! Such a small act of kindness, but very memorable.

[@ericmills9839]

Where you are in Japan can have a big difference in the reaction, though I find kids always think it's funny/surprising to hear foreigners speaking Japanese. I was at an onsen in Shimoda that had zero foreigners, and was next to a family in the lobby who had a little kid. The kid was staring at me so I said good morning in Japanese and he screamed and hid behind his dad's leg which I found hilarious. In Tokyo or Osaka, nobody really reacted to my very limited Japanese as they are so used to foreigners there I assume.

[@kvsconstructionwork]

I hope to go there one day

[@catbjorndestroyerofworlds8108]

@@ericmills9839 yea i was in yamaguchi i think at the time or somewhere nearby, good times

[@catbjorndestroyerofworlds8108]

@@kvsconstructionwork id say start learning some japanese cause honestly you can definitely get around without knowing it but it makes it 10x more enjoyable, and id say starting a journey like that theres never really a right time so as soon as you really can you just gotta force yourself to go for it

[@daveinchina]

I started to speak a little Mandarin to a Chinese lady in London, she was so pleased to hear an Englishman learn a little bit of her language. I think Chinese people will warm to you more, if you can speak a little Mandarin. She became more friendly and trusting with me when I spoke Chinese.

[@OrientalPearl]

I think you're completely right. The mood really changes when you speak the language.

[@alex100yi]

的确是这样的，用汉语和他们交流会拉进心与心的距离。

[@deseref]

I’m so glad that you are transparent on these videos and that if your looking for a wild reaction that it’s not going to be like that everywhere you go. Not a lot of you-tubers would give this “secret” away. ❤

[@OrientalPearl]

I'm glad that you liked this video Desere. This is something I've wanted to talk about for a while.

[@ktkacer1039]

Well, it is kinda a given, don't you think? You want the best content and little/no reaction is seldom (unless framed right like this was) great content. She did it so well, it WAS great content.

[@kerrin6633]

​@@OrientalPearlI really appreciate the effort you put in!! Congrats on your subscribership! You make excellent videos and it's all due to your hard work, effort, and dedication. And I remember when you started making these videos and the reason! You've really turned your situations into your strength and the ultimate success story. Congratulations! You deserve it! ❤

[@breezeh1127]

I can't tell you how happy I am you visited China town in NY and showed what it is really like to speak Chinese there. This is where the most "shocking Chinese speaking" videos are coming from. You are helping undo those misconceptions. NY is a very diverse place and they have heard and seen it all. They treated you like a regular customer with respect and courtesy. 💜 I hope your parents enjoyed the trip as well!💙

[@ChinaVlog417]

chinese people are actually friendly

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you Breeze. I was surprised that nobody had talked about this before. Yeah, my parents had a good time. I tagged along with them while they were in NYC checking on my stepdad's business. We only stayed a day. It was short.

[@szewei85]

@@OrientalPearl hope there will be next time haha 1 week perhaps hehe

[@jeffsaraiva7099]

Chinese, Japanese and now going for Korean and Vietnamese... amazing love for language and no doubt a gift! Congrats!

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you Jeff. I'm giving it my all.

[@dzunglevan8123]

@@OrientalPearl Vietnamese really hard to learn. 🤣 goodluck!

[@ktkacer1039]

@@dzunglevan8123 I've heard that, I learned a little (very little) [Like, hi, bye, thanks, nice to have met you] at a bus stop in... Columbus, OH? I believe? while waiting for the bus to arrive to take me to Indiana then Chicago.

[@rencechannel2240]

The East Asian Cultural Sphere. 東亞文化圈

[@obesia1873]

Ive met you in China back in 2012 and you are now killing it on youtube! Congrats on the channel and Im so glad you are still in Asia doing what you love

[@jasonhall6799]

I really enjoy seeing the "behind the scenes" aspect of making an entertaining and informative video. You do an awesome job! I feel as if most people will hold a reserve to thier reaction because they have been taught to remain respectful and silent. No matter how impressed they are with you.

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you very much! I'm really glad that you wanted to hear what happens behind the scenes. I've wanted to talk about this for a long time.

[@MajorMatthias]

the big reactions can be heartwarming but i really just love the subtitled conversations. even boring 'how much does this cost' conversations. basically i hate the language barrier and i love watching you kick its ass.

[@OrientalPearl]

Yeah, those conversations can get really repetitive. I agree.

[@MajorMatthias]

@@OrientalPearl i'm saying i even like the repetitive conversations! to you it's repetitive, to us its the conversations we wish we could have with these people, but cant!

[@ktkacer1039]

@@MajorMatthias oh, we can, we just have not put in the effort to do so.

[@janm.6840]

I agree, the 'shock' isn't really there when I speak to Koreans. Being half Korean I don't really look Korean, and there isn't a 'shock', but more of a compliment on my Korean language skills. My daughter (1/4 Korean), looks more Korean than I do and doesn't get much of a reaction at all when she speaks Korean. Another great experience you shared with us 😊

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you for sharing your experiences too Jan.

[@josie9583]

That's funny you're daughter looks more Korean than you haha. I'm half white half Eskimo. I look white though. My mom look extremely ethnic, and my son looks very squinty and ethnic. My man is white, I look white and people think he's adopted unless he's w my mom, then they say he looks just like her

[@Xubuntu47]

Good on you, Jan M, for giving your daughter the gift of your heritage language. My mom's generation was more focused on assimilation, so I guess that's why she never spoke her language with us. I wish she had, but even more, I wish I had taken it upon myself to learn while she was still alive.

[@krishnar1182]

Thanks for making this video, it was very informative. I'm learning Chinese and am now somewhere between HSK1 and 2. The reactions I get when I try to speak Chinese range from confused looks, sometimes genuine incomprehension, and sometimes smiles and small compliments. The shocked, jaw-dropped looks have never happened (and I am an American of Indian descent). On another note, you're also completely right about how staged/edited the reaction videos are. "Xiaoma" makes these videos showing that he learned relatively obscure languages in 24 hours and then flabbergasts the ethnic people. The owner of a South Indian restaurant I visit told me about how he appreciated Xiaoma coming but that the video clip was completely misleading about how the conversation went and clearly made it look like he was much more fluent than he is.

[@patviravouth867]

Thank you for making this video and showing that not everyone is going to react in a flabbergasted manner upon hearing a foreigner speak their language but that is completely fine too. Language Reaction videos are often highly edited to make it seem like every native speaker is shocked but the reality is some carry on like nothing unusual happened.

[@ReconRat3]

I like the fact that you can smoothly integrate with their cultures, without being condescending or rude. Every culture is unique, and has value to be explored. Great vid!

[@Missy405]

Oriental Pearl - You inspire me so much to learn korean! Thank you!! Also - Its REALLY cool to see one of my favorite youtubers who are also Catholic! :D

[@OrientalPearl]

I'm so glad that other Catholics are watching!

[@RiRyn27]

Dad’s baptist, mom’s catholic. I’ve only been to Catholic Churches when I do go and as soon as I saw this I could only think: “Isn’t Ash Wednesday this month?”

[@rhondabudge7710]

I loved this video! The conversations are definitely the best part. My husband speaks Mandarin from living in Taiwan for 3 years (30 years ago) and in our 28 years of marriage, I have seen MANY shocked reactions. My favorite is when the person keeps trying to speak to him in very broken English until they realize that he is a white guy that is actually speaking Mandarin. I started learning Japanese 2 years ago but came across your KZbin channel about one year ago and loved that you spoke both Chinese and Japanese. You helped me find Pimsleur which has helped tremendously to get me to actually practice speaking Japanese out loud. Now, my husband and I will be coming to Japan at the end of April and living in Kobe for 2 years. We are beyond excited! If you ever find yourself in the Kobe Chinatown, it would be so fun to meet up with you and have TWO people who can speak Chinese. :)

[@TheLilleyPad]

Pimsleur was the only one I found when I was in my first year in China. Listening to the conversations helped a lot! It helps you to see the pattern of sentences in your mind. I often used it before going to bed and repeating the same lesson daily until it was just stuck in my head all week. That way it came more natural. At least one sentence a week was very helpful. There were no apps at that time in 2010. Now there are so many apps, even ones that check your tone when you speak. Pretty neat when you can’t afford or don’t have access to a coach!

[@SweetAshGamer]

Thanks for showing the other side of this. I honestly believed that everyone was just shocked. It's interesting to know you don't constantly get stopped and asked about it.

[@OrientalPearl]

Ha ha, yeah that’s the side nobody shows on KZbin. It doesn’t make the Final Cut.

[@jerometsowinghuen]

Good luck on your Korean studies on this coming April, Miss Alyssa, love to see videos from there, and Happy Valentine's Day. 💖 On the contrary, instead of being shocked, Chinese foreigners from both New York and Yokohama Chinatown are surprised and impressed with your Chinese language speaking, which gives a feeling of a community. Come to think of it, I had only been to Chinatown with my BFF (elementary school classmate) during our graduation vacation in Singapore, Summer 2019. We felt like we were part of the community too, as we understand both culture and language.

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you Jerome. I really appreciate that you're always one of the first ones here.

[@lin_win7777]

I love how you make things look simple, that you talk about reality that most of the times spiced up on KZbin for entertainment 🔥Your simplicity and honesty makes me inspired to learn languages and not get disappointed if I’m not as good as some person on internet 🙏

[@OrientalPearl]

I'm so happy that these videos inspire you to learn and give you a more realistic perspective.

[@lin_win7777]

@@OrientalPearl Yes they do! Again thank you a lot for the amount of content you're creating ❤

[@williampatton4781]

I am amazed that I’m one of only 0.8% of people who have subscribed to this channel. It’s been both entertaining and educational. I had planned for a 50th wedding anniversary visit to Japan. Had tickets booked, itinerary sorted and unfortunately Covid-19 struck. The plan is still there but with a revised itinerary due to watching some of these videos. We have been attempting to learn some Japanese. Keep up with the good work on the channel.

[@OrientalPearl]

Sorry your plans got cancelled. I hope that you’re able to come here. You’ll love japan.

[@LiveURlifee8D]

I can’t believe it never occurred to me that most people aren’t shocked or phased..I just never really thought about it. I really appreciate you showing us the truth and making this video. I’m sure a lot of viewers probably realized this but not me LOL

[@JustLIkerapunzel]

I guess when I was in China most people would be ratger just friendlier than if I wasn't a white girl speaking somewhat conversational Mandarin. It simply does make people light up a little, when they notice someone making an effort to integrate, when they know how hard it is to learn a foreign language (as most these days have to attempt to learn some English). It's a big difference to speaking English or German as a foreigner in a country where it's the native language but there is the expectatjon already put on foreigners to adjust. People are more so annoyed if you don't speak perfect English / German / French etc But I've also had such reactions when in Brasik speaking portuguese to locals who could tell I'm no native speaker.

[@yammilashka]

Thanks a lot for your videos🙏 I agree that it's very important to show authentic situations and reactions of people. Also it's great that you share how much work and effort you've put into learning the languages you speak now. It allows people to adequately evaluate things and at the same time be inspired by your videos. I'm Russian (I grew up near China, in the Far East of Russia) and when I first saw your videos (shot 2-3 years ago), just like some of those Chinese, I thought you were Russian too:) Keep going, you're doing a great job!🌺🌺🌺

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you for your comment Julia. Thanks for following my channel for so long.

[@fayestrudler8258]

Great video! I subscribed awhile back before you talked about learning Korean. I had started learning some basic Korean back then & continue to dabble. I like your style of videos & commentary which have given me tips in my language learning journey. I look forward to your Korea trip as well as continuing to watch your interactions and pleasant demeanor while chatting with people. 😊

[@OrientalPearl]

That's awesome! I can't wait to share the language learning experience with you over in Korea. They are letting me film the school and everything.

[@HouseMDaddict]

The coolest thing would be if you ever crossed paths with Xiaoma (xiaomanyc) who lives in NYC in China town. You two are both very passionate language learners and I think you'd easily be good friends!!! He's fluent in Chinese also!

[@thegretnaexperiment2.021]

Yes! We need a collab! ❤❤❤

[@OrientalPearl]

I tagged along with my parents when they went to New York for a business trip. Wish I could have stayed longer.

[@SailorYuki]

Your honesty is why I subbed a long time ago. You're far more genuine than many others that do the click batey titles of "American chocks locals" bs.

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you. That makes me feel really happy to hear that. That's what I want the channel to be about.

[@jersincl]

Thank you for being persistent to keep us so happy. I laugh every time !

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you Jerry!

[@AndrewSimEncikburger]

You're amazing. A humble lady, unlike most of the famous vloggers. Your accent is spot on. You're not even "trying" too hard and, it flows effortlessly. Your attitude and humility has gained a new subscriber, me. Keep it up. I can't wait for your next upload. In the meantime, stay healthy, and safe.

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you so much Andrew. I appreciate the subscribe.

[@whushaw]

Good on you for educating and debunking this idea of shock value videos. It's like any sort of entertainment and it's not always reality. I find the gossiping while you were away was an interesting trait I had never seen or heard of before.

[@OrientalPearl]

Ha ha, the gossiping is probably the hardest thing to catch on camera. But maybe I'll catch something again this year.

[@nixonraj]

Oh, there is always a blind gossip against a non local......everywhere. Ask yourselves, most of us do it.

[@Jombozeus]

I dislike how shes throwing shade at Xiaoma every video (we all know who she's referencing). Xiaoma almost never gets a reaction speaking Mandarin in Chinatown but he's mixing in Canto and Fujianese. People in Chinatown are used to Mandarin speakers, who would've guessed?

[@fernthaisetthawatkul5569]

lol the gossiping only when the person's out of sight is definitely an asian thing!

[@allanw7247]

You are a sweetheart and I love your experiences. It is astonishing how people open up when you speak their language. I think it really shows a sense of respect.

[@thomassanfrancisco5850]

I agree if they're impressed they keep it inside while in your presence from my experience. Speaking another language fluently when not your native language in any country is appreciated because it shows you've put in the effort to communicate. I watched your videos because you're so genuine and breezy and don't show off like other You Tubers who seem to learn a language a week just to elicit that shocked response.

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you Thomas. I'm really glad to hear you say that. You're one of the biggest supporters of this channel. I can't thank you enough.

[@markhowards420]

I'd never considered that those types of videos are basically a numbers game , thanks for highlighting the fact. It won't stop me watching you , Ari or any of the other polyglots on KZbin, they make me smile in a unique way that reminds me there's so much positivity in the world. ❤

[@rdm1000]

Videos for just a few years and you are gaining on one-million subs. It is a testament to your personality that so many want to watch you just talking to folks on the street.

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you! It would be cool to hit 1M this year.

[@mrmatz408]

I loved this video! Can't wait to see you expand to Korean. I'm so happy for you and how much your channel has blown up since you first started!

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you so much!!

[@dychui]

I love this video ! I’m a Chinese American guy who speaks Spanish with a Spanish accent. I feel like folks are getting more used to the inherent diversity of the world we live in - what May have shocked ten years ago is normal now. I welcome it, it’s awesome not to be treated differently :)

[@OrientalPearl]

I’m so glad that you liked this video especially as a Chinese American.

[@sportsonwheelss]

nah, it is more of a double standard people have for Asian. How many Americans are at awe when an asian spoke perfect English? Just doesn't happen.

[@bastiplaystwo3549]

i remember watching your videos over and over again so wholesome

[@jackpatterson7110]

I love these videos, it's interesting to see the range of reactions people can have, and their personalities! I'm excited for the expansion you mentioned, it sounds like fun :)

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you Jack. I really appreciate your support.

[@roxas896]

Thank you for clearing that up. That was a learning moment for me. I still think you are awesome. Really enjoy your videos.

[@OrientalPearl]

Thanks for watching Roxa. I’m glad you got to hear the message in this video.

[@121890651]

Thanks for that video. When I was speaking mandarine to some cinese people, they weren't surprised at all. So I was wondering why I didn't get the same reaction you always get in your videos. Now I understand ))

[@OrientalPearl]

Glad it was helpful!

[@adminintern1]

These videos are awesome! So cool to see the genuine interactions in your videos!

[@ernestestrada2461]

Japanese was my first language at home because of my mother. I became fluent as a child growing up in Japan. In the states when seeing Japanese people struggling or lost trying to speak English. I first approached them in English then switch to Japanese. They are taken aback for a moment. They usually ask where I learned to speak such good Japanese. I ask them what they are looking for then give them instructions in Japanese sometimes a mixture because not speaking the language very much except with my mother on the phone some of my vocabulary has become a bit weak. I remember speaking to a Japanese person here in the United States. Who was offended I spoke such good Japanese using conjugations and terms that only native speakers use. This is not a typical reaction. But I later realized for this person their identity as a Japanese person was challenged by my perfect Tokyoben.

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you for sharing your experience.

[@louiserocks1]

I kind of felt the same way sometimes, I was born and grew up in England but I live in Russia for the rest of my life, and my whole time here I've never met a single person who knows English fluently, and to be honest, never met a foreigner from any country in the world who can do a "genuine" or "native" British accent. Sure there are tons of people who speak perfect standard RP and sound like a native speaker, but like a highly educated professional... But I mean no foreigner can speak "real" British English, with slangs and stuff, as in like, "oi, mate, 'ow the bloomin' 'eck did you manage that then?!" or like "the Jeremy Kyle show is chock full of right mingin' little slags innit" (lmao) but there is a famous Russian rapper here called oxxymiron and I'd only ever heard him speaking Russian for years, and I'd watched a few interviews and stuff with him on TV and I thought well he's just a regular russian guy, it's whatever, you know. And one time they showed an interview with him in London in the Radio One studio, with russian subtitles, and he busted out an absolutely perfect London gangster accent (idk what to call it lol) but it sounded like he grew up his whole life in the hood/ghetto/rough areas of London, with slangs and all, and well he had exactly the same accent as the dj's/hosts of the show, as if he was pretty much one of them, and I was shook, I was like WHAT THE FUCK, how the fuck, what is happening! It really does feel weird when you spend your whole life thinking that only natives can talk like that, and then it's like a punch in the face or something haha, it's hard to describe

[@StuartJayRaj]

Great clip! ...and YES...this is much closer to reality

[@OrientalPearl]

Thanks Stuart. I still remember our conversation about this last year. It made an impact on me.

[@hennessyjed5077]

I'm glad that you showed that the "shocked," reactions are in the minority, and that you have to keep trying to find someone to give you a youtube-worthy reaction haha. I felt like a lot of the "(insert nationality here) people are SHOCKED when I speak their language," videos have cherry-picked reactions to make it look as if every single person that they talked to were surprised. Don't get me wrong, it is still entertaining content, but I respect you showing the "not shocked," counter as well

[@OrientalPearl]

You're right. It's all cherry-picked by KZbinrs, myself included. It's for the entertainment of the viewers.

[@JustLIkerapunzel]

It's funny that I never even considered that someone who has never learned a language of a country where people are simply expected to learn the native language by default, might believe that shocked reactions as on youtube are the norm 😂 They are entertaining thou, as it still happens not too rarely. If not "shocked" I'd describe it as very interested, overly friendly, or curious to interact. That by itself I considered a huge motivator in my language practice.

[@RespectOthers1]

The happiest thing I got from this fun video is you my friend still speaks Chinese awesomely even though you now live in Japan! :D

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you friend. I always appreciate when you come to visit.

[@markrobinson6883]

Thanks again for the great content, I will try pinsleur, to learnJapanese, you are inspirational, and your camera work ,puts the audience right along with you, like we're in your pocket 😀 ,thanks anming

[@OrientalPearl]

I'm so glad you're giving Pimsluer a try. I love their lessons. I've been using them since 2015.

[@markrobinson6883]

@OrientalPearl my Japanese wife is insistent, I learn, and you give me inspiration ,with your multi- lingual skills, keep up the great content, and stay safe ❤️

[@delltek102]

you're speaking with such a flare is unbelieving amazing...,, #1 on imo on youtube!

[@legorockstar2000]

As always, another amazing video! Thank you for the hard work you put into making these!

[@OrientalPearl]

Glad you like them!

[@nancymahasky2377]

You're just so smart. What a gift you have to be able to learn all of these languages. I had a hard enough time just learning French.

[@ktkacer1039]

Je sais. Droite?

[@ktkacer1039]

(btw, pardon my spelling it's likely horrid) ^^^^^

[@PrayerWarrior37]

I seriously think not only are they shocked but I think in some weird way they appreciate you for learning their language , I think this is so awesome

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you Elizabeth.

[@itiz1]

not you exposing the dude that talked about you while you went to the bathroom lollll and a great video as always! ❤

[@OrientalPearl]

Thanks 😅

[@ErtuncUyan]

I love this channel and your content. it is giving me good vibes for asian culture and languages. thank you !

[@OrientalPearl]

Glad you enjoy it! That means a lot.

[@blazealf9588]

Another great video. I always look forward to them. I just saw your pinned comment about going to Korean host family. Thats so exciting! Bring on the videos 🤣

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you! I'm so excited to go to Korea.

[@kyleclark8958]

I'm hoping to just get to talk to people when I finally get to travel to Japan and I know I don't need to be close to fluent to do that. It's so exciting the prospect of opening up an entire culture and people for myself to experience and show them that I am interested enough in their culture to take the time to learn and become proficient enough to speak with them in their native language.

[@OrientalPearl]

That’s awesome Kyle. I believe in you.

[@schoolinJOO]

Pearl you really were the first person to expand my concept on language learning; thank you for all of your efforts in helping other learners and simply sharing your experiences- I have been a French learner for 3+ years which only the pandemic interfered with; but my point is that you have shown how in application you can learn SO many other languages ! And ones that are exceptionally foreign to the west ! as far as learning at least ❤❤❤

[@danielvogt9371]

I have started to learn Dutch many years ago becaue of a girl I fell in love with. A few years ago I moved to a City next to the Dutch Border. So I drove many times across the Border to go for shopping ans sightseeing in the Netherlands. Every time I started speaking in Dutch, the people most like ly were answering in german, espacially close to the border. The further you drive inwards the more the people are sometimes shocked hearing a german speaking dutch. Even though we are Neighbours by country, Dutch is not a common language to learn in school except for schools close to the dutch Border.

[@OrientalPearl]

Love is a powerful motivator.

[@ktkacer1039]

@@OrientalPearl lol, you'd know ;)

[@AniMageNeBy]

I've seen most of your vids; they're a mix of interesting/exotic and funny, but this is the first time I actually see a YT'ber acknowledge most of these kind of vids are exaggerations or selectively culled. You get a like for your honesty. ;-)

[@AConnorDN38416]

about a year ago I went into a local Japanese grocery store here in Atlanta, Georgia, and I asked one of the store clerks some questions about ingredients for okonomiyaki and explained that I was looking for a particular kind of Japanese flour for making udon noodles, all in Japanese. My friend who was with me was expecting me to blow their minds with my Japanese but I already kind of knew what the reaction was going to be. The ladies working in the store simply answered my questions and didn't even really acknowledge that there was anything unusual or interesting about me speaking Japanese. I will say, the times when I got the most reaction from Japanese people about me speaking Japanese were when I was clearly a novice/beginner. They would act so impressed that I was learning Japanese. Sometimes I will get a comment about my Japanese, but not nearly as much or seemingly as excitedly as when I spoke more たどたどしい片言日本語

[@OrientalPearl]

Yeah this is a good point. If you're a beginner people may be more likely to want to compliment you rather than someone who has more of a grasp on the language.

[@MarkTunac]

Where in atlanta is this store because I used to live in Atlanta more than likely Iwent there to purchase food I like. I used to ride up and down Burford hwy looking for asian stores and restaurants

[@saffronscursex]

I've been subscribed for a very long time, a random video I remember is you showing yourself cooking with your Chinese roommates then you gave us a tour of your cute little room after you went out buying cute little snacks, I'm glad I am one of your favorites! :) Please don't ever stop making videos!

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you! I really enjoyed making those videos with my roommates.

[@kajuncourier]

Anming,how do you retain the Chinese and Japanese vocabulary as you speak it ? Myself trying to learn French at 65 years old (my mother spoke fluent - Cajun Louisiana French) is difficult to retain. I would look strange walking around with CHEAT sheet of French. You are a strong inspiration of people learning languages. You living in China for 6 years and using it every day, I can see how you mastered it. It rolls off your tongue like drinking water. Every episode of your video's out does the previous one. You represent America in so many ways through videos of getting along with many cultures as you speak their language. American ambassador of culture speaking. The videos you show,you are also teaching many different lessons of life also. Thank you for what you do.

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you so much for your kind words Doyle. I'm so glad that you can see the improvement in my video editing.

[@SICsupraman]

Proud long-time subscriber here! Love your content. Why people don't subscribe is beyond me, it's always top-notch work and effort going in to these. Keep it up!

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you for being one of the special ones. I haven’t done a good job reminding people to subscribe.

[@RubyDuran]

Really wish I could live abroad in one of the countries where my languages are spoken 🥹 you're amazing! EDIT: PS, I know this video takes place in New York, but it's still awesome to see you use your languages and it's awesome to show the type of reactions you get (or don't get) when you speak with people. Thanks for sharing :D

[@OrientalPearl]

I hope your dreams of living abroad come true.

[@sophiaisabelle027]

We love to see more videos like this. Somehow this breaks down stereotypes.

[@OrientalPearl]

I'm so glad you like them Sophia.

[@harmonicposting]

HOW ARE YOU EVERYWHERE SOPHIA

[@Cole_mac]

I just happened upon your videos. Really impressive. Keep doing what you’re doing.

[@Izzy-bq1rc]

Been studying Japanese for 4 years and moving there next month - I’m honestly pretty worried that people will have those big reactions when I speak Japanese to them, since when I speak Japanese to my Japanese friends in the states they act shocked a lot and think it’s really cute and it’s kinda hard not to think of it as condescending.

[@OrientalPearl]

That’s awesome that you’ve been studying Japanese for so long and stuck with it.

[@sikoyakoy2376]

I really think you should not think so negatively 👍🏼 A Ukrainian I talked to also said I have a “cute” (he may not have actually meant this word, but it’s what he said hhh) accent speaking Russian, but it seemed he actually wanted me to speak Russian because he was having difficulty conversing in English all the time, so it seemed he was hoping we could at least communicate in Russian sometimes since I demonstrated a bit of knowledge of it. Don’t overthink people’s reactions. If it distracts you, just courteously take it as best as you can and try to move on with the conversation otherwise maybe going to Japan won’t be a good idea.

[@Izzy-bq1rc]

@@sikoyakoy2376 I get it, in my head it doesn’t bother me since I know cuteness is more of a compliment in Japanese than it is in America (if my American friends called me cute I would probably get mad tbh). But overall I’m not too worried about it, I’m assuming it’ll be more common with the people I just met and my friends will eventually get used to it lol

[@yoksnod]

I've been sub'd to this channel for a little over 2yrs now. doesn't bother me what ratio of people you encounter are shocked or surprised, in fact I'd never really given it much thought. i would say if someone thought that every person you met had the same surprised reaction then they must be a little naive. i've watched a handful of other similar style videos from others on youtube but they just didn't feel authentic somehow. i'm not sure exactly. maybe they seemed a little cocky. so, your videos were the only one's i enjoyed. anyway. personally, i love seeing those who do react. also, i think the appeal of your videos is YOU and your bubbly positive persona. keep doing what you're doing. best wishes to you + Tommy.

[@OrientalPearl]

I'm really glad that you've enjoyed my videos. You're one of the smart people that realized the reactions videos were not a good representation of real life. lol

[@siuuu7148]

Fiirst💞😭

[@OrientalPearl]

You are so fast!

[@DlMl420]

I never imagined that this channel will grow so fast, feels like yesterday where you had 23k subs , I'm so glad for you! Keep it up !

[@byvitalyt]

How old are you now? I would like to learn japanese korean and chinese. I started japanese some months ago and i will go to study japanese in Japan for 1 year and a half next October. Youre such a good inspiration

[@bettydavis7359]

Thanks for an informative video. I grew up in NYC so it was wild to see you in Chinatown there. Hope you had a great time. Looking forward to your videos when in Korea. My son has been living there for the past 6 years & loves it.😊

[@barberbill68]

Growing up in Flint, Michigan, I have escaped and done some traveling to Europe. It's good to see American getting out and traveling to other countries. Thanks for sharing your adventures.

[@WTFiTzFlow]

I can't believe you were in NYC! (My hometown) If you're from NYC, you've seen everything and nothing will surprise you! (All in one day, too) I would definitely love to be a part of your videos. You continue to inspire me to work on my Mandarin and Japanese. I sell furniture for a living and I have many Chinese customers and I love helping them in Mandarin and they are so receptive. It shows you that we are all the same and we can connect through language!

[@Sweepout]

I love your videos! They keep me motivated to learn languages! Ive mostly been learning German, but also a bit of Japanese on the side! I hope to be able to speak either of those and meet new people like You eventually!

[@OrientalPearl]

I'm so glad that you're taking on Japanese.

[@UserName23567]

Im from Germany. Nice that youre learning our language. Dont give up on it too quickly.

[@ktkacer1039]

Guten tag Herr Sweetpout. Viel Glück! Meine derzeitigen Schwerpunkte sind Französisch und Schottisch-Gälisch sowie etwas Hawaiianisch. But I'm a native Amerian English speaker, tho, due to being a voracious reader, I have a fair bit of England English in spelling as well as verbiage when I go 'auto pilot' or am kinda tired/fagged out. (AE /EE as the second one has a very different meanig in AE).

[@Cinetyk]

I was born in Portugal in 1984, always lived there, so even though I eventually learned some Japanese, I'm probably clueless regarding interacting and living with people. All that said: my overwhelming feeling is that this is so awesome - people breaking the language/culture barrier and trying to communicate earnestly. Again, I'm from Portugal - English is a mainstay here in public obligatory school - yet it doesn't get to everyone the same way - let alone other languages all over the world to the other like 6 billion people out there. In my own bubble I'm thankful I came across Oriental Pearl channel. Thanks for all your work and effort!

[@dutchiedonuts]

It was pretty cool to see you in Yokohama Chinatown the other day and sorry for startling you while you were filming. 🎥 😮 Myself and my girlfriend enjoy your video's. 🙂👍 She's amazed on how well you speak Chinese and Japanese. 👍👍 Take care and happy filming.

[@chuckwagon7354]

I would think it is more relieved than shocked. Maybe throw in a hint of surprise. Of all the vids of yours that I have watched, you seem to be as pleased at being understood as they are of hearing your fluency. Your excited laugh when conversing in their language encourages me to get stuck into my Italian studies.

[@Ogsonofgroo]

I don't know why I love these language/interaction videos so much, vicariously meeting people? Happiness? No idea, but binging on a chilly rainy day these videos warm me up some :)

[@thefang_18]

As a black french man living and raised in France, I always got the reactions you got from your past videos. Particularly when I switch from French to Mandarin/Cantonese cuz they have a lot of difficulties with the French language. I always got those "Ohhhh" "you freaked me tf out" "Why is your Chinese so good" "I can't barely speak French but you know Cantonese that's impressive" etc... The fact that my Mandarin/Cantonese isn't that good is pretty funny to me. In any case, they are still truly shocked.

[@tye829]

I am white and have blond hair, blue eyes, and went to college in Beijing. People would not freak out like these videos, but did seem mildly surprised I speak Chinese. Usually just a comment like ”啊，你的中文还不错。” （”Huh, your Chinese isn’t bad.”) and then ask where I am from. They didn’t absolutely have their minds blown like these videos lol, but did seem sort of interested. As a side note, staring isn’t as rude in China and if you look different a lot of people will stare at you and even ask to take their picture/selfie with you, based solely on your looks lol. I did “elicit a reaction” one time, like they talked about in this vid lol. I was at this famous mosque in Xi an. Xi an is a big Chinese city but not as international as somewhere like Beijing or Shanghai. There was a little kid, prob 5-6 years old, in front of me in line somewhere and he kept tugging on his mom’s sleeve saying look mom it’s a “外国人” （foreigner). Mom wasn’t interested at all. I let him do this for a couple minutes and then out of the blue said “对！ 是外国人” (yes, it’s/I’m a foreigner). That time the kids mind was absolutely blown and he got pretty excited lol, but it was def because he was so young and also in a more random/inland part of the country to see foreigners.his mom thought it was funny

[@siriosstar4789]

I went to scotland a few years ago and asked a store owner in English for directions. he answered in Scottish . i left the store completely perplexed .

[@bobadams179]

You should have said Nǐ hǎo to Xiaoma when you were in NYC. I've been a subscriber from almost the beginning. Love your videos.

[@OrientalPearl]

I was only in NYC for half a day. I tagged along with my parents because they went to check on my step-dad’s business. Too short

[@bobadams179]

@@OrientalPearl Oh I see. That would have been an interesting video subject. Maybe next time. If there is a next time. Ciao!

[@A_friendwithoutbenefits]

I’m Korean living in Bolivia, my Spanish is almost fluent. Also travelled through Argentina and Chile. Hardly anyone is amazed at my Spanish, most I get is a polite ‘hablas bien español’. The KZbin videos are carefully edited and I’m glad this video was transparent about it.

[@cference]

I was born in Michigan! I think your videos are great! It is wonderful expat fun to watch them! Be well!

[@miguimau]

That's a really honest approach. Thanks for sharing! Whoa, 740k already. You deserve it. :)

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you! If we got at 1M this year that would be amazing.

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

I love that you made this video.. so true. at the end of the day the best bits make it into the video after all!

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you Nathan! I saw your message. I'm looking forward to filming with you again when you get to Japan. I actually used the B-roll we got in Asakusa. Let's go out and film some more. There's a Chinese temple I want to visit in Saitama.

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

@@OrientalPearl let’s do it! .. I’ll Be there too message me :)

[@jimross7648]

Two of my favorite creators together. I'll be over the moon with excitement for your content.

[@brianneslamin554]

I love that you said it’s about the conversations, it’s so true. And look how far you’ve come with that, let’s not forget how you used to be nervous. Practice and personality goes a long way ❤🎉

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you Brianne.

[@telikovimaenglish]

Your transparency is refreshing!

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you Johnathan! It was great listening to your livestream the other day.

[@andreasstahl8207]

You should be so proud of your hard work and journey in these languages! I wish I had an inch of your determination but It's so so difficult! I want you to really cherish this, because please believe me that you are at a stage that people would do anything to reach! My girlfriend is Japanese, but I still can only talk daily things with her in Japanese, so most of the time we speak English. It's been rough for us because of Corona but this Summer and winter we will finally meet again, and start of next year we will move together 🥰

[@DAVELAD101]

Love watching everyone’s reactions! I guess it’s just not very common especially you speak it very well !

[@notintohandles]

I have subscribed and am looking forward to seeing a more authentic interaction with the people you feature.

[@donmapa]

Can't wait to hear you speak Vietnamese. Thank you for sharing

[@foodwithmichel]

Another amazing video! 🤩

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you Michel! It was awesome to meet you yesterday! Let's hangout more while you're still here.

[@fernandowillems4574]

Welcome to New York City I love when you speak different languages. I like that it's not about what people say just people's reaction. I'll see it on on youtube you're beautiful young lady thank you for everything

[@loteknomad5032]

Good video. Appreciate you sharing a more complete picture of these experiences. :)

[@OrientalPearl]

Thank you. I’m glad that you came to watch.

[@mizuki_1516]

That’s really cool. It’s admirable that you learned it so well

[@PremierCCGuyMMXVI]

Regardless, these videos are so wholesome :) I literally smiling watching these videos :)

[@albeenog2432]

This is a revelation? i think most people understand editing is a big part of most content on utube. Kinda like its obvious they dont really catch 15 fish in a 10 min video hardly ever. The time (sometime hours) between catches is left out. And as u did here-cutting your 30 encounters down to 8-9 to keep us 'hooked' and not bore us. Keep on keeping on- good stuff!

[@abigailmugisha1845]

I love your videos I’m also learning korean at the moment keep up the good work😊❤

[@williamluxton4520]

Always enjoy your clips. your language skills are amazing.

[@kurentbellsringing4306]

❣️🙏you’re so honest , love it. Great mix of background music .

[@OrientalPearl]

I’m glad you liked it. I spend a lot of time picking out the music.

[@kurentbellsringing4306]

@@OrientalPearl you can tell from the flow of it all.So many KZbinrs don’t put much thought into it and it shows. I’m so proud of you, keep up the spectacular work. 🙏❣️The world needs your energy. Some day please bring us to a historic place like the shrine from 1333 🏯 🙃🕊🇯🇵