Korean Job Discussion Forums

[airbear]

Hi everyone!

I'm approaching the blessed end of a sort of crappy contract at a rather mediocre school here in Seoul. It's been quite a year, but Korea has her charms and I can tell already that I am going to want to come back eventually.

What, in your opinions, are the best areas for living and working in Seoul? So far I really like Hongdae and Hyehwa, but I'm wondering what else is out there. My priorities are:

-a happening and lively environment-- lots of shops and restaurants and bars, just really typically your guidebook visual of Seoul with all the pretty neon signs. I'm also big on open public spaces like parks and plazas.
- good crowd of young people to hang out with, Korean and foreign alike
-a very central location
-a culturally engaging area, with lots of art and music
-proximity to a university

I'm not crazy about pollution and huge crowds and tiny apartments, but I think I could deal with all that if I absolutely loved where I'm at.

So what do you think?? I'd like to check a few areas out before I take off in a month and would really appreciate any advice.

Thanks!
Erin

[Son Deureo!]

Shinchon/Hongdae is great, Gangnam has its charms, so does Hyehwa, and many other parts of Seoul. However, it's so easy to get around Seoul that I'd say as long as the jobs you're looking at are in Seoul, pay more attention to the conditions of your prospective job than the neighborhood it's in.

If location is that important to you, then just get your own apartment wherever you want to live, ask for a housing allowance from your new boss, and be prepared to commute a little.