Korean Job Discussion Forums

Valhalla · Joined: 28 Jun 2008 Location: Sokcho, South Korea

I live in Sokcho, a rather small touristy town on the East coast and I've been here about 6 months. I know one westerner (he teachers with me and lives in the same building) but other than that, I don't know anybody. There is another hogwan on the other side of the city, but I don't know any of them. Nobody really speaks English here and well.. aside from my boss, I only know one person in this country.. after 6 months! What do I do?? Go to the other hogwan and lurk in the parking lot waiting for the expats to come out? lol.. thats not creepy... :-/

sarbonn · Joined: 14 Oct 2008 Location: Michigan

I really feel for ya. Maybe it might be time to really just try learning the language. Or just spend all of your time in a bar that you go to every night and just get the locals used to you. Others might have better advice, but I wish you luck. Sounds kind of sad.

Eedoryeong · Joined: 10 Dec 2007 Location: Jeju

Hi

without knowing your hagwon situation, I'd venture a guess based on your tone that you probably picked the wrong place to be in, for your personality.

Having said that, have you considered tapping into some social groups online for similar loners in your extended area (e.g. your province?) Are you on Facebook or another social web network? I just did a casual search for groups on Facebook using 'gangwondo' and seven groups popped up.

We're out in the sticks too, but don't mind it so much socially because we keep well-connected with nearby expat friends and the lot of us (maybe between 50-100 other foreigners who keep in touch down in South Jeolla) know the bus routes and times and travel around to regular social events going on. Just tap into the existing networks and keep on top of things. This activity, and grassroots organizations pooling resources, are really what the net is made for, aren't they? Take advantage and end that self-imposed exile. And start enjoying yourself more as a result. Good luck.

Valhalla · Joined: 28 Jun 2008 Location: Sokcho, South Korea

I have been studying the language since I arrived, and while its more than sufficient to take care of my daily business and whatnot, it's not really near enough to be social. I joined one of those groups.. and hopefully it will help! You're right in the regard that I didn't choose the right place for my personality.. somehow I didn't foresee this...

PeteJB · Joined: 06 Jul 2007

I'd like to see Sockho, I'll hang out with you in return for receiving a tour Laughing