Tell me about teaching in South Korea? What should I know?

Question

I have recently accepted a position in Gunpo, Korea and I am wondering if anyone can tell me more about the area.

Answer 1

Gunpo is in what they call 'Kyeonggi do' Which is the area surrounding Seoul.
I took the courtesy of finding you a map, however I apologise, that it is in Korean. Your area is around the big red arrow.. http://maps.naver.com/?x=30587600&y=52937310&title=경기도%20군포시

For advice, I suggest that you try to learn to at least read Korean before you come. As you are not right in Seoul (however it is very easily accessible) you may need it for buses or trains etc.
Although Koreans are crazy about learning english, in my own experience, I haven't met a great deal of Koreans on an everyday basis (such as at the supermarket, or stores etc) who can speak english.
I learnt Korean for a couple of years before I came, so im not really sure how difficult it is for those who cant speak any.

Here is a site, which can teach you a solid foundation for Korean (it's free too!) http://hompi.sogang.ac.kr/korean/

I haven't actually stopped in the area that you are going to be teaching in, so this is all I have to offer.. sorry :D

Answer 2

I agree with KARA_NARI; learn the Korean alphabet (it's not difficult) and try to learn some of the language. Also read up on the culture. Korea is a beautiful country and there are lot's of national parks, palaces etc. to see. The people are friendly and you'll have a great time.
Good luck

Answer 3

Good day~
Gunpo is not in Seoul. It is beside Seoul, where you call Kyung gi do. It's a nice place there. It is just like Seoul.
There are many places which has English Camp Study.(I guess you are working there..maybe,,cuz I know my friends work there also..)
According to them, it's a nice place..(Quiet than Seoul..-that's what they said.)
I was in Korea for 10years but I didn't been there.
I guess you will feel not that big difference between Seoul and Gunpo.

Good luck to you~

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