Korean Job Discussion Forums

[mysterious700]

I guess this is probably a pretty obvious question. How safe is Seoul and South Korea, in general? Anything, I should be aware of, aside from common sense (not going alone at night)? I do hear it is safe overall, but have read some alerts on the Canadian Government website ( http://www.voyage.gc.ca/dest/report-en.asp?country=153000 ).

This is an excerpt from the website:

"3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

Crime against foreigners is generally low. The rate of sexual assault against foreigners continues to be a concern. Exercise caution, remain aware of your surroundings, and avoid walking alone after dark. The use of public transport after dark may be safer than using taxis when travelling alone. However, when subway and bus services end for the night, use officially marked taxis only and, if possible, do not travel alone. Otherwise, exercise normal safety precautions and ensure personal belongings and passports are secure.

Strikes and demonstrations frequently occur in Seoul on short notice. Canadians are reminded that political, labour, and student demonstrations and marches can become confrontational or violent. Canadians should exercise caution, avoid areas where demonstrations are being held and avoid confrontations with protestors. The Korean National Police operates a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week Central Interpretation Centre where foreigners can report crimes (in Seoul, telephone 313-0842; elsewhere, 02-313-0842). For emergency assistance, call 112 for police and 119 for ambulance and fire. The 112 number has an English interpretation service from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day."

Any additional feedback or insight would be much appreciated. In other words, what are your experiences?

[peppermint]

For guys, I'd say Korea's extremely safe, probably more so than at home. Women do have a bit more to worry about but it still safer than a lot of places in the west.

Riots- meh, just avoid Gwanghwamun ( an area of Seoul) if you're worried, that seems to be where they all happen. Honestly though, I've never heard of a nonKorean getting injured at one of these things.

[Ya-ta Boy]

I've been known to wander home drunk at 2 or 3 in the morning, in Seoul and the other cities I've lived in. Never once have I had a problem of any kind with safety. None. Zero. Zip.

[visitor q]

My biggest concern is the gangster kids on scooters that ride around with swords, slicing the nearest pedestrian's back. If you wear a backpack with rocks in it (like I do), you'll be fine.

[mysterious700]

haha I guess I should have expected that from you Visitor Q. Thanks for the insight everyone. I like to be cautious and it is always better to be safe than sorry.