Korean Job Discussion Forums

[pollyplummer]

Hey, I'm taking a job teaching public high school in Bucheon. I'll be arriving in a couple of days. I lived in Seoul for approximately six months about eight years ago, but I never visited Bucheon. What is it like there? What do you like about the area? Any random information about Bucheon or teaching public high school in general would be much appreciated. Thanks, guys.

[Son Deureo!]

I hate to be "that guy", but the search engine is your friend:

http://www.eslcafe.com/forums/korea/viewtopic.php?t=12112&highlight=bucheon

[pollyplummer]

Hey thanks for the link. I tried searching it before, but I guess I searched in the wrong section. The Yellow Sea Islands sound divine Then again... I tend to romanticize every place before I arrive there- a bit of the ole Anne of Green Gables syndrome. I arrive friday in Seoul. Then they're sending me to Tokyo for a visa run the next friday. Bucheon doesn't sound half bad from the descriptions previously given. If anyone else wants to post their experience of the Bucheon area, I'd be most grateful. Otherwise I'll find out for myself on Friday... Thanks again!

[candu]

I've lived in Bucheon for around a year. A few years ago I used to come out here to visit friends. It has changed a lot, and for the better. Good for shopping, movies, etc. and a little more easy-going than Seoul. People seem a little more "country" - and that can be good and bad. I haven't caught any malicious comments or other trouble so far, and people in the neighbourhood - Jung-dong - are nice enough.

You can take an express subway from Bucheon St. to Yongsan St. in just under 30 minutes. There is also an express bus that goes to Hapjeong (just before Hongdae) and Shinchon in less than half an hour, assuming it isn't rush hour or there isn't any serious roadwork happening. From Itaewon/Hongdae/Shinchon a cab usually runs about W25 000 or W30 000 should one head home after the subway and bus close.

Hope you like it.

[pollyplummer]

Yes, I do like it. My apartment is fantastic- brand new and conveniently located near anything I may need or want. The school I work for is slightly disorganized... to put it mildly Classic korean style. But I think it's all going to work out okay. I was suprised that I have to wear different shoes to school than the ones I come in wearing. I mean, if we're keeping the floor nice, why does it still look pretty nasty? I'm pretty pleased with bucheon. Does anyone know where I might find a micro-brewery with a nice wheaty-tasting beer?