Why Learn A Foreign Language?

My Japanese colleague raised an interesting question the other day" “if AI can perfect its language translation capability, what would be then the merits of learning a foreign language?”

First of all, here are the reasons I began my linguistic journey:
1. English: I hated it. I remember thinking 'I'm a Korean, why the hell should I learn the language of the people I've never even met?' And then our family immigrated to the US... 
2. Chinese: I was facinated with Chinese history and philosophy. I went to China just to feel the air and ended up living there over 20 years. 
3. Japanese: I fell in love with Japanese TV drama, Anime, Manga and a Japanese girl I met in China 

For me they were all triggered by people and culture and enhanced by people and culture. Desire for career advancement or trying to be cool didn't get me too far...

And here are the good things that came with it "unexpectedly":
1. An ability to be objective: No one can be 100% objective but multiple perspectives offers a more balanced understanding of things. Language is a tool of thought (think about the % of which you talk to yourself everyday compared to % of communicating with others) Mastering multiple languages allows for a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives.

2. Liguistic awareness: We use words that we really don't understand on a daily basis. (think back when you were asked questions by a 4-year old) Learning a foreign language enhances linguistic awareness, leading to improved communication skills even in one's native tongue.

3. Human connection: Life is short and there are so many interesting people out there! if you want to negotiate contract terms, AI can do the job. but if you want to connect with them on a personal level...Sorry, you gotta speak the language.

English speakers enjoy a significant advantage due to the language's global prevalence. However, an advantage given without any effort always comes at a price: Native English speakers have the least motivation to learn a second language.

What's your motivation to learn a foreign language?