My Accent Transformation Story – Why My Pronunciation is Better Than My Brother

Moving to Canada as a teenager was a challenge for both me and my brother. We started late, struggled with English pronunciation, and faced the same obstacles. But our approaches were different—and so were our results. Here’s how small, consistent habits changed my life, and why I built AccentAbility to help others on the same journey.

Accent Transformation Journey

Two Brothers, One Big Move

When my brother and I immigrated to Canada at ages 17 and 18, we were both old enough that learning a new language—and especially mastering pronunciation—was a real struggle. Research shows that starting late can make it harder to achieve native-like pronunciation (source). We both felt the pressure, but we handled it differently.

Trying Everything—Except Giving Up

I was determined to improve. I read books aloud, experimented with pronunciation apps, and even convinced my brother to join me for sessions with an accent coach who had worked on Hollywood movie sets. My brother, on the other hand, believed that just living in Canada would be enough and that his accent would naturally improve over time.

“Although I couldn’t practice every single day, I kept coming back to my routine. Small steps, repeated often, made all the difference.”

Consistency Beats Intensity

While my brother waited for things to change, I focused on doing small things often. I didn’t always have time for long sessions, but I made sure to practice regularly—even if it was just a few minutes. Over the years, the gap between us grew. I became comfortable speaking in any situation, while my brother still struggled with confidence and clarity.

How It Changed My Life

The results speak for themselves. I’ve worked for internationally recognized companies in Canada, collaborating with people from all over the world. My brother, meanwhile, found it easier to work in Korean companies, where he didn’t have to use English as much. The difference wasn’t talent—it was habit.

Why I Built AccentAbility

Now that I’m back in Korea, I don’t get as many chances to speak English. That’s why I created AccentAbility: to help others build the same habits that changed my life, and to keep myself on track, too. If you’re like me—starting late, facing challenges, but determined to improve—I invite you to join my journey.

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