Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Zantetsuken]

Anybody here ever done this? I was thinking about playing some songs on the subway platform in the near future. In the states I always thought about it...but there would always be some dude there in the best location. I don't know what the situation is like in Seoul but down here I've never seen a guy playing on the platform. I'd like to give it a go on a weekend afternoon. Any experiences??? You think I'd get hassled by some subway employee or be generally left alone?

[PeteJB]

You can't do that without being thrown out. You don't do that in a modern and busy subway, use some sense and find a good street.

[maingman]

PeteJB wrote :

and find a good street
= preferably a clean one

best of luck!

[Forward Observer]

I'm not trying to be cynical or negative OP, but I hope you realize that the majority of Koreans don't put money in hats for performers. They'll most likely stand around, stare and make fun of you...then after they're bored, they'll walk away laughing.

[Korussian]

I would love to see more (i.e. some) street performers in Korea, out there just for the fun of it.

However, if you're on an E2 VISA, that might be seen as going for an authorized source of secondary employment.

Please be very cautious about how you approach this, particularly if you're on an E2.

[NoExplode]

Go do that in some Eurotrash city. Spare us and the Asians of your vanity.

[Missihippi]

OP, i wouldn't recommend playing near a subway as someone has already mentioned. Depending on what type of visa you're here on, it may make asking for tips illegal.
That being said, i love street performers.. I grew up near New Orleans and can appreciate anyone who puts them self out there for the masses. Not sure where you could go, but i did see some koreans playing music in a seemingly open area in Hongdae last weekend.
Anyways, best of luck.

[wylies99]

Are you a mime or do you play an instrument?

[Zantetsuken]

I have an F2 visa...so no worries on the visa front. Where I'm from there was always guys playing on the subway. As far as them making fun of me...thats gonna happen regardless...I am white after all.

I play guitar...sing....(bring out the skin flute jokes now)

[PeteJB]

Just get a hobby for christ sake and save yourself the trouble.

[Crockpot2001]

I'm a bit shocked at how negative a few folks are about this. I suspose people hide away in their room or a rented sutdio until the big comes to entertain the masses, maybe open up for Celine Dion or Slayer. I have no interest in being a busker but playing in smoke choked Korean bars does not sound good either. The tip advice sounds valid though.

I have considered having acoustic band practice at Munhak station. I've never seen anyone ever get on or off the subway unless there is a game. The place is massive and seems to have a few tucked away areas. Maybe we make a little sign that says no Won or dollars.

[ThingsComeAround]

Are you from NYC, OP?

[jdog2050]

[wylies99]

Uh, actually it's wise to listen to some posters when they give warnings about the probability of hostile reactions from Koreans. A white face will automatically draw negative reactions from many Koreans, no matter how talented the "performer" and skilled the performance. Also, bear in mind that there are no Korean police to protect you from drunks, and there will be drunks.

[Binch Lover]