Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Scouse Mouse]

Which of these is the best area for a first-timer?

I have had a job offer for both. The jobs both seem good enough and pay is identical. They are both with different recruiters, though both recruiters have been very good in contacting me and providing information. As such, I am having a hard time deciding.

One school is a public school, the other is a franchise school with a decent reputation and a 10 year history at the particular school. I know the pro's and cons of public v private so the discussion does not need to be about that.

What I really want to know is where would be the best place to live? I would like a place with a decent chance of meeting other foreigners for when I need to flex my english skills, and have decent local shopping and leisure facilities. Ease of travel into central Seoul is also a consideration.

Thanks in advance for any help

[Meggiebea]

Hey there, I am heading to Uijeongbu in 4 days!!! (So exciting!!!)
check out these threads.

http://www.eslcafe.com/forums/korea/viewtopic.php?t=73573&highlight=

http://www.eslcafe.com/forums/korea/viewtopic.php?t=70776&highlight=

I choose Uijeongbu because it is close enough to Seoul (30 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on where you are going)
it is smaller, I have never lived in a city, and hopefully friendlier and slightly slower paced.
It seems to have a lot of hagwons, therefore a lot of expat teachers.

The negative things I have heard about Uijeongbu:
It can be boring because there are not a lot of things to do
It is over an hour away from 'the best parts of Seoul'

these things are not really a concern to me. I was offered a job in Seoul, Nowan-Gu, but the population density was insane, people were packed in like sardines. Hope this helps.
Oh and I have no idea about the other place you mentioned.

[re:cursive]

I know nothing of the first place you mentioned but Uijeongbu will fulfill your criteria...if you don't mind spending time on the subway that is.

[Scouse Mouse]

Thanks for the links

Wierdly, they never came up on my search of the forums... anyway, I am probably going to be in Uijeongbu pretty soon. Of the contracts I have been offered that is probably going to be the better one (public school).

The journey into Seoul doesn't really bother me, as I am from a big city and am used to a 1 hour commute to work... Having to commute once or twice a week for debauchery is much better than having to do it daily for work

[dmbfan]

Hey. a topic that I have first hand experience in.

Ok, Gwangmyeong. I lived in Gwangmyong from May 2004-May 2005. I thought it was a pretty cool city, honestly. It is on the #7 line, but not far from the #1 line, and other various stops (Bucheon, Bupyong, etc). It belive it takes less time to get to other areas such as Hongdea, Youngdon...and Yongsan. There is also a cool little area in Gwangmyong called Cheolsan. It has a good selection of bars, clubs, and eating hangouts. The cost of living is lower, so your money will go a little farther as well. Actually, it is smack dab in the middle of Incheon and Seoul, so you have two choice for a weekend hangout...........................

....hope that helps.

Cheers

dmbfan

[JAZZYJJJ]

I have been in Gwangmyeong for a few years now.

It sounds closer to Hongdae/Itaewon than Uijongbu (30 mins if you are creative with public transport).

There is an expat community here, though it isn't as tight as it used to be. So you should be able to network. There are a few watering-holes.

Shopping sucks.

Hope this helps.

J.

[Luna]