Relationships are always a challenge (especially between two genders).  Add into the mix the radical cultural differences and you have an interaction of epic proportions!

Let’s make it easier for everyone.

I’m sure you either have a Korean woman you want to date or beautiful Korean women surround you (or both!)  Before we go into how lucky you are let’s talk about what you can do specifically to boost your chances with a Korean woman.

I’ve created the 10 things worth doing before going on a date with a Korean woman that are more powerful than saying “dress well” and “smell good”.  Let’s move on to what REALLY makes a difference.

#10 – Plan Ahead

Most dates don’t work at all because guys just ‘wing them’ or follow some idea they saw on a sitcom.  If you want to make the date work then do yourself and her a favor: plan it out beyond ‘picking a place to eat’.   When I was dating I would research online for some nice places or even just walk around to find novel coffee shops or restaurants…especially if I was on a budget.  I would give myself an hour before the date to plan out everything.

On that note:

#9 – Know What You Want

For your plan to work it’s good to know what you want! Do you want a girlfriend or casual dating?  Or maybe you just want a one-time affair pronto.  Depending on what you want your date will have to go differently.

For a long-term girlfriend you might want to string out the dating to see if she’s a good long-term match.  For a casual date you can get more intimate on that date.  For a one-time affair you might even want to skip the date!

What’s more: If you’re in tune with what you want you’re more likely to do the work to make the date a success.

#8 – Know What She Wants

It’s good to know what she wants to find out if there’s a match.  Now no woman (especially a Korean woman) will ever confess to wanting a one-time affair so if you’re looking for a fling you’ll have to do some homework.  I recommend indirectly discovering what she wants whether it be a fling or to be your girlfriend.  More on what makes a good girlfriend and how to seek out things indirectly by clicking on the link.

#7 – Do a Self-Audit

Wanting to date a beautiful Korean woman is great…if you have the means to.  Do you have the time and money to go out on dates and such?  Or is your life a bit uncertain currently and adding a woman into the mix would make it more volatile?  Don’t believe the movies where a woman solves all the problems.

#6 – Have a Script

I hate to say it but I recommend having things prepared to talk about during the date to make yourself more attractive and the date more interesting.  Remember that women love talking about emotions and stories and such more than facts and politics (which your guy friends would enjoy more.  Some men just know what to talk about to build that rapport – no matter where she comes from.  Find out what makes a man attractive when you click on the link.

Okay so #6 to #10 was more about yourself and women in general.  What are some things you can do for a Korean woman specifically?

#5 – Lower Your Expectations

You’re going to date internationally.  If you thought that dating a woman was tough – wait until you’ve dated someone from a different culture!  You’ll have value and language differences that would make any head spin around…twice!  So I recommend taking it easy and keeping your expectations low.   If the date turns out to just you two barely being able to communicate then so be it!  That being said…

#4 – Know And Keep Your Standards

When you’re about to go on a date it’s important to keep your standards (that is if you know what they are first.)  I recommend knowing the top 10 things that you DON’T want in a woman or a date.  They can range from big to small things.  For example I don’t like a woman who doesn’t know how to chew her food properly.  I’ve had dates with Korean women where they would munch away and talk at the same time.  I grew up in a French household so I had to ask her to chew first and then talk.  There’s no hurry to eat after all.

#3 – Expect Cultural Differences

Beyond the language and value barrier I recommend that you prepare yourself for other things as well.  I’ve had dates with Korean women where they would appear with a chaperone or friend!  I had to explain that in the West we don’t do that.  Or you can expect to foot the bill or at least pay for the more expensive things.  If you don’t it’s not a question of you being cheap – it’s a question of you not liking her enough to pay for her.  She loses face and that can matter to her.  At the same time take advantage of them!  Know what and what not to talk about.  Find out more about Korean dating culture by clicking on the link.

#2 – Speak SOME Korean

Okay you saw this coming.  If you want to impress your Korean date in the QUICKEST way possible then just say some Korean words to her.  Even small things like “Chincha?” (which means ‘Really?’) or “Assa!” (which means ‘oh yeah!’) can make a big difference.

#1 – Have fun and Learn!

Whatever happens (and this is so cliché) have fun!  You’re in for a wild ride and after 5 years of meeting and dating Korean women I can say that it was and will continue to be a blast.   That being said make sure you reflect on your dates as well. I recommend doing what I do which is to write down 3 things you did well, 3 things you will improve on your next date with her, 3 things you’ve learned.

Good luck!

Dan Bloom

Moving to Korea? Get your copy of Korean dating interviews.  Boost your chances of dating a beautiful Korean woman with expert tips and advice you can listen to from the comfort of your home!

Aren’t women the same around the world?

Can’t you just meet women like ‘normal people’?

Perhaps but I wouldn’t know.  I never had a ‘normal’ childhood.

For me I was lucky (or unlucky) based on how you want to see it because I

• grew up in  a religiously strict household

• lived and was raised in at least 5 different cultures

• always loved women

this has made me who I am to an extent and what has given birth to my site.

Growing Up Under Religion

If you think living under one strict religion was tough – try two!

I was born in to two religious parents. My father was Christian and my mother was Muslim.

As I reached my teenage years my parents were very strict and never let me hang out with girls.  You can probably relate.  Instead I was forced into studying and since I wasn’t overly bright I had to study double-duty.

If it was just about not hanging out with women that would be okay.  Instead I was shamed into not thinking sexual thoughts about women.  If you’ve been there then you know how devastating that can be to your love life.

I understand that it’s to protect you during your educational years but what a price.  If only our parents told us at a certain age that we could forget the shame.  That would be okay.

Sadly I didn’t get that memo. I spent my young years single and quite alone.

It wasn’t until I came to Korea that I decided to change my attitude towards women and sex.  Living away from your parents’ influence and in a different culture forces you to open your eyes and think for yourself.

That’s why I recommend teaching English in Korea.

Growing Up In Various Cultures

My mother’s culture (Algerian) is as strict about studies as Asian culture.  Only I wouldn’t really know as I was never raised only in Algeria.

Instead I grew up in many countries.  I was born in Texas but lived around the world in places like Spain, Algeria and the UAE.  This gave me an interest in various cultures and the ability to objectively look at them.

You may think I was spoiled.  I probably was and I loved the overseas lifestyle.  It gave me an ability to relate to people more easily and learn languages quickly.

But it also left me having to cut relationships short and leave intimate ties.  This made me closed off when I was a teenager.  It wasn’t until I moved to Korea and learned from some mentors that I was able to face this.

All I know is that I didn’t want anyone to feel so closed off when making relationships with others.  This was a big reason for me to create my Korea-Dating-Tips site.  It was a way for me to help others who struggled with connecting with other people intimately.

When You Always Love Women

For me I’ve always loved women.  I loved how they acted, smiled, etc…I won’t get too cheesy but I always want to be intimate with them.

Sadly I didn’t know how.  I think I was good looking enough but didn’t know how to go from ‘just friends’ to more.  Even when they wanted me to make a move!

So I sought out help.  I searched the internet and found out about ‘Game’.  It gave me a model to meet women with.  When I came to Korea I had to change myself to calibrate for Korean women.

I quickly realized how scary it was for most Korean women to talk with a stranger (let alone a foreigner.)  Through trial and error with good guidance I was able to interact with Korean women anywhere.  I was also able to start dating some.  Learning the language helped too.

Sadly this process was very painful and not one I would want for other foreigners coming to Korea.  So I decided to create Korea-Dating-Tips to help foreign men and women understand Korean culture and the people as well.

Find a Mission Worth Fulfilling

Granted, helping guys and girls get intimate may not sound like a proper purpose.  For me it is.  I want to make sure that my culture shock and disappointments would help someone who was in my shoes 5 years ago.  I’m glad my Korean dating tips site can do that now.  You can learn from my mistakes and date a Korean more easily and successfully.

Dan (BlueM)

I get a lot of questions on dating Korean  women and if there’s ONE rule I can share is  this:  Keep your standards high and your expectations low.

If you want to have a fun time with a beautiful  Korean woman then I recommend keeping  this rule in the back of your mind.  It will help  you by guaranteeing that

• you and her have fun

• you stay true to yourself

• you stay sane

As you apply this into your dating life you’ll find yourself having more fun experiences with Korean women. You might just end up being with a Korean woman who makes you happy!

Make Sure You Have Fun!

The #1 mistake guys make when going on dates is taking them and the women too seriously.  They also hope against hope while walking on eggshells that everything will go well.

If you want to make the date a success I recommend acting as if you don’t expect anything from her.  Not even her showing up to the date!  In fact the lower your expectations the more likely you’ll be yourself and she’ll be into you.

You’ll also find yourself more able to relax and make her have fun.  This is very unique for any woman! Most women (and especially Korean women) yearn for a fun date.  Korean women especially because they only go on their soggaeting dates with some boring (read: typical) Korean guys.

You can shine by dropping the expectations whilst keeping your standards high.

Attention: This Is Not About Your Beauty Standards

I’m also talking about how she treats you.  If you feel like she’s mistreating you (for example showing up late at the date) make sure you let her know – gently but firmly.  This is easier if you didn’t expect her to show up on time.

With respect to how she looks it’s up to you.  Understand that the prettier she is chances are that she’ll be busier and more unable to date you.

I also recommend knowing yourself well. Know yourself with respect to what you’re willing and not willing to tolerate.

This is just one reason why applying this crucial rule to your dating life is helpful.

Stay True To Yourself

Most people think that being alone is the worst situation to be in.

I disagree.

What’s worse is being in a relationship with someone we’re not happy with or want to be with.  This happens with guys who settle for women they’re not happy with.

To make sure you avoid that trap is by staying true to and keeping your standards.  At the same time if your expectations are low then you avoid being disappointed and frustrated.  Instead you’ll be at peace with it all which will ironically bring you closer to what you want.

Stay Sane On Your Dating Ventures!

Many women think that men meet and date a lot of women because they’re dogs!  Although there’s some truth to our reproductive behavior the main reason is that many women (and men) are unreliable.

This is even worse with Korean women! I’ve travelled the world and have never met women as flaky as Korean women! Granted it’s mainly because of their social and filial obligations that are more important than your date but still…if you let the flaking get to you it will (as I have if you couldn’t tell by now.)

Note: Many Korean women ARE reliable and yes there are flaky men too.

So when you’re working on dating your ideal Korean woman there are many things you don’t control.  Her behavior is an example.

So what can you do?  Keep your sanity as you go out by keeping your expectations low.  Even if SHE sets the date and talks about it – don’t expect her to show up.

International Dating Is Tough!

Searching for your ideal partner is a tough game. Everyone gets hurt and gets pleasant surprises.  This is more true with interracial dating – there’s a different

 • gender

• culture

• language

It’s important to be patient with yourself and accepting that some things won’t work out.  All in all it’s a game of life and this #1 rule will make sure that you’ll stay true to Rocky Balboa’s cliche quote that I’ll leave you with:

“It’s not about how hard you hit. It’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. It’s about how much you can take and keep moving forward.”

Stay true and you’ll find and date a beautiful and fun Korean woman who can’t thank you enough for coming into her life.

For  more free interracial dating tips for dating Korean women I recommend clicking on the link.

Talk soon!

BlueM

Korean Dating Tips Advisor on meeting  and dating Korean women!

After living in Korea for 4 years I’ve seen many Westerners have a great dating life in Korea.  They got past the myths of dating Korean women and were able to accept the truth.

If you want to have a successful dating life in Korea well know that it’s not possible without understanding and accepting these 7 facts.

Myth #1: Korean women only want affection; Men only want intimacy

Fact: Both men and women want ‘affection’ and ‘intimacy’

Society has done well separating the roles between men and women.  Korean society has also done well to make sure women cannot show their sexual desires.  It is called the “eumjae and yangjae” dichonomy or ‘음재 양재’.  It stands for ‘light’ and ‘shadow’.  For some reason Koreans classify a woman into one OR the other category. She’s either a good woman or a whore.

A Korean woman must always come across as a being part of the ‘light’.  That means never showing sexual desires. If she does (even though she wants to) she might be in social trouble.

A man is able to show his desires but then society labels him as a ‘feeling-less dog’ giving women leeway to hurt his feelings (because he “doesn’t have any”.)

The reality is that men and women are human beings and have the same desires (maybe not to the same extent.)  Being able to stay ‘nonjudgmental’ and understanding of the opposite sex will help you with dating Korean women.

Myth #2: Women want ONLY men with money and status; Men want ONLY gorgeous women. 

Fact: What women and men want varies from person to person!

This is a really horrible myth for both men and women.

As men, if we see a gorgeous woman, we might think that if she enters our life, she will bring tremendous value. Therefore we need to have the amount of money and power that equals her beauty.

Women who only work on improving their looks are leaving themselves short-changed as well.  A real man wants a woman who looks pretty but who also has other things going for her (if she is to stay in his life.)

Myth #3: Korean women are easy

Fact: Korean women sense that mindset and are more skeptical about those foreigners who think that way.

This is the worst myth out there.

I can’t tell you about all the posts I’ve read, and people I’ve talked to (and I’ve believed this myself before reaching where I am today), who thought that Korean women are easy.

Myth #4: Koreans are “Americanized”

Fact: Koreans are in a state of change

Although there is a strong movement thanks to the younger generation here that is making Koreans more independent and seeking individual pleasures, Korean society itself is still very much Confucian.

A good friend of mine who hangs out with higher society people (executives, business owners, etc) at clubs, would bring in his regular friends (guys who have decent jobs, but nothing too grand by society‟s standards) and the higher society group WOULD NOT mingle with my buddy’s other friends.

The regular friends understood and accepted that.  If you want to do well with dating Korean women you need to understand that your social status plays a big role on your dating life.

Myth #5: Korean women are not sexually active!

Fact: Korean women are human beings in that department too!

While reading posts from people living overseas who are trying to date Korean women, I’ve come across the issue where Korean women will act “surprised” or shocked at any sexual advance.

For the most part Koreans are still quite conservative but not all of them.  A lot of Korean women are very active and experienced in bed.  They just dress like all the other Koreans so are hard to spot.  Also they are very careful with whom they share that side of them.

Remember the ‘eungjae/yangjae’ dichotomy?  A Korean woman’s most important asset is her reputation.

Myth #6: In Korea everyone speaks English.

Fact: English is considered a subject in school the same way that Math and Science are.

Just because Korea’s government is investing tons of money (about 15 billion dollars back in 2006), doesn’t mean that they’re getting their money’s worth.

Koreans aren’t as fluent in English as we’d like them to be.  Not only that but their wording and grammar can throw you off. They do try though, and yes it’s a lot easier today than it was 5 years ago.

Myth #7: Koreans should accept me for who I am, just like in America / Canada / Australia / etc.

Fact: Welcome to a “Whole new world!”

Eh, welcome to Korea!

This is a country that is still ruled by Confucianism where title, age and occupation still determine your social status and value.

Personality and individuality are Western traits and has to do with world’s history.  The West in general had it easier than Korea in terms of surviving.  The West was able to spend time focusing on individuality and abstract thoughts.

Not so in Korea. Their focus was on surviving and how nice a person is played no role in helping people who are looking for food. In Korea the higher your status the less likely you were to starve.

You can see that mindset today as well.  Most Koreans value your social standing and its’ benefits.  Who you are may be nice on an individual  basis but in general your personality plays a smaller role.

And no Koreans don’t have to accept you for who you are.  Either you bring value to their social standing or you don’t.

Dating Korean Women Is Worth It!

These myths may shock you. They will also prepare you for what Korean culture and society is like.  You will be better prepared for what you’ll have to face.  For more on Korean ladies I recommend clicking on the link.

Good luck!

BlueM

 Beautiful Korean women  Dating Coach

They’ll boost your chances for a date because the Korean women there want to meet foreigners!

She’ll more likely welcome your advances and will make things easier for you.  If you’re new to Korea you’ll have more in common because the Korean women who frequent these places are more familiar with Western culture.

I recommend either meeting her

• online

• at Itaewon coffee shops

• at foreign bars

The best part is that each type of places accommodates your style.

Meet Korean Women Online

If you feel more comfortable meeting Korean women online then you can meet a lot of Korean women.

Korean women who go to online dating sites are looking to meet and date foreigners too.  For a lot of them it’s their only way to meet foreigners.  Sadly most Koreans have never befriended a foreigner.  They don’t know how to make foreign friends except for doing so online.

I recommend learning how to meet Korean women online.  You can easily set up a profile for free and take a look at your pace.

A university student guy friend in Korea has done really well with meeting Korean women online.  Personally when I’m looking for a date I prefer meeting Korean women at coffee shops.

For more on how to meet women in Korea I recommend clicking on the link!

Meet Korean Women At Itaewon Coffee Shops

If you’re more of a day-time person.  If you enjoy a more relaxing atmosphere and like meeting new people over a coffee or tea then this might be for you.

A lot of Korean women who go to Itaewon are curious about you.  They want to know more about your culture and country.  This is a great place to share your stories to a fascinated audience.  She’ll also be willing to share her background and appreciate your curiosity about Korean culture.

The best coffee shops in Itaewon for meeting Korean women are

• Coffee Bean near exit 3

• Starbucks 2 minutes out of exit 3

• Tom n Toms out of exit 4

Just grab your computer and head out to one!  Grab a cup of your favorite coffee and chill out.  When you start to see beautiful Korean women go say ‘hi’!

If you like going out and coffee shops aren’t for you then you’re also in luck!

Meet Korean women At Foreigner Friendly Bars

If you’re a night person and enjoy partying it up while meeting Korean women then I recommend foreigner-friendly bars.  They cater to foreigners and foreign lovers.  The Korean women who go to those bars want to get to know you better.

They want an escape from the Korean scene and hope that a guy like you will start a conversation with then.  They are bored with Korean-style bars and clubs and most are looking for something new…

Last weekend I went to a foreigner friendly bar in Gangnam and we saw 2 beautiful Korean women at a table.  Needless to say that we grabbed our drinks and went to say hello.  They were very receptive and we had a good time.

You can too!

I recommend going to bars in either

• Gangnam

• Hongdae

• Itaewon

because most Korean women who go there are curious about foreigners.

 I Don’t Recommend Meeting Women At

Korean nightclubs have a lot of Korean women who are looking for a date.  On the other hand they don’t speak English.  If you

• speak Korean

• go in with Korean friends

• have money to spare

then Korean nightclubs is an option for you.  In fact it would be a great option because most foreigners never go to Korean nightclubs.  Also they would enjoy the fact that you can speak Korean and have Korean friends (makes things much easier.)  Granted a typical table with drinks and food would cost you and your friends 1,000,000 won

Foreign nightclubs usually have Korean women who just want to listen to music.    In general if a Korean woman is looking to hookup she’ll go to a Korean nightclub or a foreigner bar.   Korean women who go there to socialize are or want to be a part of the social scene.

If you can

• stand the loud music

• enjoy the night scene

• have solid ‘game’ or social circle

• a table

then the foreign nightclub scene might be for you.

 Meet Korean Women In Your Daily Life

If you see a beautiful Korean woman as you go about your day then talk to her.  Chances are that she’ll welcome your approach and will be just as curious about you.

If you’re nervous about the thought of talking to a Korean woman then have a prop!  Bring a Korean/English translator or a map and ask for some help.

Chances are that she’s grateful you have a prop because then she also has an excuse to talk to you! 

As long as you’re having fun and meeting Korean women you’re genuinely into you’ll be fine – she’ll probably have fun as well.  If you want more on dating Korean women then click on the link.

Good luck!

BlueM

Would a Korean woman ever want to date an English teacher?

Only those that know what they want! Well what do Korean women want when they date an English teacher in Korea? Wouldn’t they want the same things that they would want from a local Korean man?

Not exactly – In fact you can boil down a Korean woman’s desires to these 4 things:

• an alternative
• an adventure
• Acceptance
• Activity

Soon you’ll discover what it takes to become the man that she’ll think about all day. All it takes is understanding and applying these 4 points.

Note that this also applies to women looking to date Korean men.

A Korean Woman Wants An Alternative

When she’s dating you she’s really interested in how different you are from Korean men. She’s tired of the same old dating routine. She’s at a point in her life where she finds local Korean men typical and wants an escape.

We’re talking more than just behavior. We’re also talking about expectations. Korean men typically became too domineering and intrusive for her. Not only that but she probably met them through her social circle and has to stay tied up to their expectations.

When she’s dating you she can relax because her friends and family don’t know you (she probably won’t tell them either.) She’s looking for a new experience and you can provide her with it.

So I recommend showing her your world and culture. Teach her your language. Dress like you would from you country and she’ll appreciate it (as long as it’s not TOO different.)

A Korean Woman Wants An Adventure!

In addition to an alternative dating experience she’s also looking for an escape! Your differences scream ‘adventure’ to her! A lot of Korean women are bored with their repetitive lives. They watch foreign T.V. and are curious about the experience.

This is where you shine! You can present yourself as an escape from her everyday life. This is something where Gyopos can actually shine more. Gyopos (foreign-Koreans) can provide her with the adventure AND make her feel more comfortable. This is because we are all more comfortable with what looks familiar.

A Korean Woman Seeks Acceptance!

There is an abundance of beautiful Korean women. Sadly they don’t pass the ‘standards’ of what Korean men want. Maybe they’re not ‘white’ enough. Maybe they’re not ‘thin’ enough. Perhaps their face isn’t ‘small’ enough.

So what can they do? They know that foreigners have different tastes than the locals. Korean women can land more quality foreign men than they could with a Korean man. It doesn’t mean that Korean men have more quality – it just means that they have a different taste.

This is why you can have a long term relationship with a Korean woman. She can have a much more attractive and quality foreign man than a Korean man.

A Korean Woman Wants Activity!

Sadly most Korean dating resorts around going to restaurants or movies (with their huge camera.) As a foreign man you can introduce her to new foreign experiences!

You can take her salsa dancing! Introduce her to darts and a Western sports bar! If you live in Korea you can bring her to Itaewon in Seoul (most Korean women haven’t had the chance to go.)

Get Started With Approaching Her!

If you want information on how to approach a Korean woman with success then I recommend going my site on dating Korean women. You can discover what it takes to meet and date Korean women anywhere around the world.

It’s All Fun And Games Until Someone Gets Hurt!

So you are an alternative experience but would she want to date you forever? Would you? She understands that as an English teacher you won’t be in Korea forever. You must understand that Korean women have social expectations – and they value those expectations.

That being said if you understand your relationship (or relationships) might not last forever then you’ll have a great time in Korea!

Have fun!

BlueM

dating tips site on meeting and dating korean women!

How well do you know Korea? Come and meet the charms of Korea at Touch Korea! You are warmly invited!

I wanted to enquire about places for English teachers in Korea where there are 2 spaces available for a start this September (2011), for a year, or in February next year (2012), for 6 months. We are both degree qualified people from London. One with a degree in English who has taught English before and the other with a degree in Chemistry who has taught English before in a foreign country. We are looking to come to Korea together, and would like to find out if there is availability this year such that we could be together, not necessarily in the same school (although this would be perfect), but perhaps at two schools in a similar area / province so we can live together. We would be open to teaching in a city location OR countryside location and would consider either. If it is too late to apply….perhaps you could facilitate a start in September this year (and stay for a year) for one of us, and the other could come in February next year (and stay for 6 months). Any assistance would be greatly appreciated. Regards, Ben

Short Answer: Yes.

Long Answer: There are hakwons (private academies) and then there are public schools. Korean Public schools begin in March and end the following February with a month or two break in the summer, and a month or two break in the winter.

Hakwons are always hiring. Public schools, not so much. They don’t follow the typical Western Education schedule (developed around harvest time- I think.)

Your best bet is to find a RELIABLE Hakwon for two. Recruiters love high quality foreign folks, because when they connect teachers they can collect a bounty of a million won (Roughly $1,000 USD) or so.

I hope that helps. It looks like in your question you’re already asking other firms – smart move.

One of the largest and by night the most colorful cities in the world, Seoul is truly an eye-popping experience.  Whether you’re here for a month or three years, never hesitate to seize any chance to take a look around.  The following are 10 popular destinations.

1. Gyeongbok Palace.  Destroyed and reconstructed several times, Seoul’s grandest palace offers English tours (three times daily) for foreigners looking to learn about Korea’s history and architecture while admiring the stunning view.  It’s closed on Tuesdays and not far from the Blue House (the President’s seat).  You probably won’t have much trouble finding it, seeing as it’s at the north end of Sejongro, Seoul’s main thoroughfare.
2. Bukchon Village.  Nearby Gyeongbok and Changdeok Palaces sits this well-preserved village of traditional wooden homes (hanok) featuring small courtyards, beautiful outer walls, and tiled roofs.  Take your time through the neighborhood and admire the art galleries.
3. Eat.  A lot.  Anyone who’s ever had kalbi never forgets it.  The same can be said of doenjang jjigae (stew with bean paste, vegetables and/or meat, and tofu) and bulgogi (literally “fire meat,” marinated barbecued beef, chicken, or pork).  If you’re feeling brave, try the kimchi, although you may want a breath mint on hand.  For a full-course lunch, try heading to Baedongbaji in Samcheong-dong.
4. Shinsegae Department Store.  A stroll through here is a cultural lesson in itself.  A veritable labyrinth of shopping snares like fresh fish, beloved kimchi, and Ferragamo shoes will likely mesmerize you for (gulp) hours.  Prepare to be overwhelmed by the sheer variety of goods offered and have a well-earned breath of fresh air on the rooftop.  Find it between the Namdaemun market and the Myeongdong shopping district.
5. War Memorial and Museum.  Sadly the butt end of countless foreign invasions, prepare for a sobering morning by visiting the museum ($3 admission) and learn about its military and cultural history.  Much of its current tensions with nearby neighbors (and those across the Pacific) make a lot of sense after some time spent here.  Head for Samgakji Station via subway line 4, and try to visit the place early in the day to give yourself time to cheer up.
6. Bugaksan.  Seoul is nestled in the mountains, so you might as well climb one.  On this one, you’ll find several trails to take you through reconstructed 15^th century gates along fortress walls.  About 40 years ago, North Korean commandos sent to assassinate the president climbed the very peak but were unsuccessful.  The Seoul Fortress is newly re-opened for touring (although you’ll want to make your reservations at least a week in advance) since its closing over security concerns.  Don’t forget to bring your passport on the trail.
7. N’Seoul Tower.  This 480m high beauty—complete with elevators and a chill lobby—replaced Mt. Namsan’s fortifications.  The area underwent a makeover in 2005 and now looks totally modern.  Take a seat in one of the many cafes and restaurants (try the revolving one) and admire the evening lights.
8. Namdaemun market.  The best place to get the best bargains in town is undoubtedly Namdaemun market.  You’ll find everything from household appliances to food, jewelry to fabrics in a stretch of street-vendor stalls.  Try some of the vendors’ food—mandu gook, a dumpling soup, is a widespread favorite.  Get to the market via subway line 4 to Hoehyeon Station.
9. Cheonggyecheon Stream.  It may not be a babbling brook in the woods, but this manmade waterway is the place to bring your romantic partner, although half of Seoul will be doing the same.  Whisper sweet nothings all the way to the stream, just off Sejongro.
10. Itaewon.  Even if you’re new to Korea, if you’re a foreigner you’ve likely heard of Itaewon’s bars, clubs, and shopping district near the U.S. Army base.  In the basement of the Crown Hotel is one of Itaewon’s most beloved clubs, Club Volume, where you’ll hear some of the world’s most celebrated DJs.  It’s not all late-night entertainment, though; have Sunday brunch at Le Saint Ex, a French wine bar and bistro.

Don’t forget that Seoul is also home to four UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Changdeokgung, Hwaseong Fortress, Jongmyo Shrine, and the Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty.  These are worth checking out, too.

Bio: Alexis Bonari is a freelance writer and researcher for College Scholarships, where recently she’s been researching African American college scholarships as well as college grants by degree level. In her spare time, she enjoys square-foot gardening, swimming, and avoiding her laptop.

Hello! I’m living in South Korea permanently with my husband. I am from California. I would like to know if I can get a teaching job or a teaching assistant position. I don’t have bachelor’s degree. Can i still get a job in Seoul?

If I remember correctly you need a specific visa.

This site is Seoul’s Official Site: http://english.seoul.go.kr/lh/work/employment.php?pidx=1

I hope this helps. If you don’t have one of those visas you could do it “illegally” but if you get caught you could get deported.