Korean Job Discussion Forums

[jjurabong]

Hey all,

I've been here since '96, and I'm writing a blog post about the cleaning up of Itaewon over the years, and how I kind of miss it being a "foreigner ghetto." I've been trying to remember some things about those days, and I'm wondering if any of you other long-timers can help.

1. As you turn up by the fire -station to go up to the "hill" - we all know the one - there used to be a girlie bar that had a door shaped like a lady's business, complete with hair. Any of you happen to remember the name of that place, or perhaps have a photo you would like to share? I am very happy to give credit, if you do.

2. What was the name of the blues bar that was there forever, just up from the police station? I think it's a Mexican restaurant now. There was a Korean guitarist who played every night ( I think he owned the place ) who was amazing. Anyone know his name and what happened to him?

Thanks so much for any help you can give.

[brier]

Was the blues bar called 'just blues'? I think that was the name. No idea about the other bar.

[jjurabong]

Yes, that was it, Brier. Thank you. So simple - how could I have forgotten it?

[Mikejelai]

the Korean Jimi Hendrix - somebody said he is in Kangnam now (and spent a few years in Hong Kong or somewhere)

[jjurabong]

I actually didn't end up writing about Just Blues, although that guy was so good. I am glad I had the chance to see him back in the day.

Here's the post if you are interested. I hope it's ok to post the link here.

http://shelleyscribbles.wordpress.com/2011/08/16/the-purification-of-itaewon-and-why-i-miss-the-foreigner-ghetto/

[Gorf]

Good post, but if you don't think that Itaewon still isn't a foreigner ghetto, I'd highly disagree. It's the dirtiest (figuratively) and most diverse place in Korea. I think that makes it qualify.

[nukeday]

Yeah, a lot of what you describe is still there. The burger may not be the best at Nashville anymore, Hollywood may not be the most popular bar, there are less pros on the hill, and Polly's Kettle doesn't draw the crowds (and the kettle prices are astronomical). Still, I could pretty much retrace your steps today.

In general, though, I agree with you. I've only been here since 2006, and Itaewon has changed (gentrified and a lot more Koreans) a lot since then. B1 and that club under 3 Alley Pub? I wouldn't be surprised if, in 5 years, they had a "no foreigner" policy at those places!

[Jove]

Friends and I have been talking about this issue a lot lately. I rather miss the days when Koreans would answer the question of "have you ever been to Itaewon" with a resounding, "oh, no. It is a bad place." Now it's become a domestic tourist attraction for Koreans to come and visit "edgy" restaurant and bars. Even dodgy, dive bars like Kings Club and Polly's have remodeled and cleaned up. It's just not the same and in my opinion, not as fun.

By the way, I've been trying to remember something as well. When I first got here, Limelight/Hard Rock Cafe was a night club by another name. Anyone remember what it was before Limelight?

[thrylos]

[kimchipig]