Korean Job Discussion Forums

[chaz47]

My university is cleaning house and I'm wondering what step to take next. I've lived in Busan for about 5 years now and I've got the itch to get the heck out of here. I'm not sure if "here" is all of Korea or just Busan.

I'm pretty certain that if I can't get another university job I'll be leaving Korea. I can't help but say that in my near 5 years here there has been little change that would make being a foreigner here more palatable. If anything it has gotten worse.

As I said though, this is all Busan experience talking. Can anyone compare Busan to somewhere else in Korea after? Especially somewhere out there in the sticks, where I'm more likely to get into another university position.

I think Andong or Gyeongju might be cool for the cultural aspect but if it means more rude Koreans and/or the perfunctory conversations that lead to nowhere except a free English lesson for them I think I'll try my luck in another country.

I hate to throw in the towel here as I feel like I have a decent handle on the language and culture. As far as my current situation though, I just feel really stifled by the monoculture mentality, stereotypes and staring.

[chaz47]

bumps

[cincynate]

What about Jeju? I love it here.. It is a lot more laid back.. The weather is good, the people are more friendly than on the mainland, the beaches are better and if you like the outdoors, this is the place to be. The foreigner community is pretty tight knit.
That being said.. some of the downfalls.. you can't take a 'train' anywhere.. You have to fly or take the ferry (an experience i promise you). Its a lot smaller than Busan as well... if you enjoy the 'big city', its not for you. However, I wouldn't have it any other way!!!

[Moldy Rutabaga]

I lived in Busan for a year and then lived in the countryside near Cheongju for a few years. I now live in Daegu. I don't mind Daegu. Nice scenery and the people seem friendlier than in Busan.

Perhaps you need a change of pace and another city will find it. But if you have some savings from your job and you are single, why not try another country and see if you like it? Perhaps Japan, Taiwan, if you need to be paid well, or Europe, Thailand, Mexico if you just want a change.

I think a new place in the country could be 25% better. But wherever you go, it's still going to be Korea...

[DWAEJIMORIGUKBAP]

I've just mved to about as country as you can get from living in downtown Seoul.

Very friendly people, smaller classes, kids more polite and calm, very nice clean, fresh air and beautiful surroundings. Better food.

I like it so far...