Published Date
19 March 2009
Now Living in
Nonsan-si, South Korea
Occupation
English teacher
Best Thing About the Country?
The low crime rate, I love feeling safe in my apartment, and I can walk about at night with a handbag full of valuables and not feel worried.
Biggest Cultural Difference?
SA is a multicultural society, but in Korea, everyone looks the same and speaks the same language.
Top Things to Do or See?
Shopping, sightseeing & going to festivals
I live in a small city, where English is not too common on the streets. During the week I am an English second language teacher, I teach at 3 public schools, an all girls middle school, where I teach three days a week, an all boys middle school, and an elementary school. I have several Korean co-teachers who assist me during class, their English ability ranges from poor to fluent. The student’s English ability is low, so I have a lot of work to do within my busy schedule. I get a lot of free time between classes to plan lessons.
On the weekend I am a tourist, there are many festivals in Korea, especially in summer, I have been to a jewelry festival and a mask festival.
I also love visiting temples and museums. Still to come is a visit to a Jim-jil-bang (spa), Noreabang (karaoke room,) and an overnight temple stay.
It’s winter now and a lot colder than SA. Shopping here is wonderful, whether it’s for electronics, fashion, or beauty products, there is plenty to choose from. Public transport is daunting at first, but it is very efficient.
I love it here, but unfortunately it will never
be like home!
I can recommend the recruitment agency
I used: Teach Korea