I was in Seoul, Korea for the first time for the KOTESOL conference. What an experience! I loved it, and I hope that these photos capture some of excitement and exhilaration of what I experienced.
Hi, I saw a couple of items on this page that sparked me to write. I am teaching in what is considered a rural area of South Korea. I could talk to anyone about it that wants to get my ideas. I would never discourage anyone, and by all means if your spirit is compelling you to come here, then I think you should follow your heart. Dave has followed his heart, and look at all the treasures that he has found in his life. We should all be so lucky. Despite certain frustrations here, I find Korea to be an intriguing and challenging place to live and work as an older single male from America. I suspect married couples have an easier time of it, and there are a lot of perks for families, that I cannot take advantage of as a single person. I will say that the kids, all of them, need you, because this is a society that is opening up to a world that changes daily, and they need to know who you are and what you are all about. English is important, but your life and presence are a treasure. So, when you come to Korea, pack lightly, and throw away any expectations, 'cause you are going to be a stranger in a strange land. The worst of your students will make you try even harder, because, in my opinion, there are no bad students, and if you believe in people, and life, then you should be here to help these young people understand, that the future is right outside their door. If you have a heart, this is the place.
carl s
16-Sep-2007 21:25
Thanks Dave,
I plan to teach EFL in Korea at the end of next year. That degree just can not come soon enough! The pictures are wonderful, and I am glad to see how clean cut, yet surprisingly artistic the city seems. However, I would still like to teach in a more rural area. Keep up the inspiring work!
Ed
23-Oct-2006 02:20
Hi I would like to know if you can tell me a website of Universities in Seoul, where people from USA, teach english. I will appreciate your informaiton.
Thanks
Ed
From Mexico.
Venus
09-Nov-2003 08:34
Hi Dave...
Just wanted to say that those photos exactly show what it is like here.
So funny. You got it in one.
And all the photos (specific things) you have taken, i have also taken myself! In particular: old men talking, window cleaners, and neon streets....I think those things really capture a lot about what everyday life is like here....