Dealing with the culture shock around map apps might exist as one of the MOST frustrating parts of moving to Korea. We compiled a breakdown of the most common culture shock points communicated in our communities. Hopefully, the following information helps you 1) know what to expect when you arrive in Korea and 2) feel … Read more
Feeling pressured to use Naver Maps (네이버 지도) instead of Google Maps while living in or visiting South Korea? Many valid reasons exist for this pressure. Time to explore the differences between these two map systems that provide different levels of access to information in Korea. Culture Shock Around Map Apps in Korea During our … Read more
Have you been asking what is Papago? Do you live in South Korea and need help navigating the language barrier? Let’s explore how this app developed specifically for translating to and from Korean could make your life easier. This might read like a paid ad, but it’s not. We just need folks in our community … Read more
As a public school teacher in South Korea, I’ve learned that the echo chamber of English language information about Suneung lacks detail. In fact, the English language research and information about the Suneung was so misleading I could find no ethically viable sources for my Master’s thesis. Therefore, I would like to reveal some misconceptions … Read more
Choosing the right school for your child can be one of the hardest parts of moving to Pyeongtaek. Many parents ask, “Where can my child attend school in Pyeongtaek?” It’s one of the most common concerns for families moving to the area. Often, parents explore multiple options, sometimes choosing different schools for each child or … Read more
Trying to use the Naver Maps app with the English interface? Struggling to find information? Noticing a weird lack of parking or Korean restaurants? English speakers in Korea encounter several common issues when using Naver Maps. In this post, we will talk about Naver Maps and how it handles English UX/UI and the data you … Read more
Do you want to learn more about gochujang? What is its history, how it’s made, and what is it used for? Recently South of Seoul volunteers had the great privilege of helping host a Traditional Market Vendor Visit at the Songtan Market in Pyeongtaek-si. The evening included a brief lecture on the history of gochujang, … Read more
July’s Book Club Pick, “The Surrendered,” is a powerful, evocative tale of how love and war can profoundly transform people’s lives. This novel delves into the lives of three complex characters whose lives are intertwined by the turmoil of the Korean War and its aftermath. So, let’s dig into this novel. About The South Of … Read more
June’s Book Club Pick, “Tastes Like War,” is a memoir written by Grace Cho exploring the intersections of food, family, and the Korean American experience, delving into the author’s relationship with her mother and their shared journey through mental illness and cultural identity. Let’s dig into this memoir. About The South Of Seoul Book Club … Read more
Welcome, book lovers and South of Seoul community! This month, our book club dives into “Nuclear Family” by Joseph Han. It’s a novel that explores the life of a Korean American family caught in the throes of personal and political turmoil. Han’s unique narrative style blends realism with a touch of the surreal, making “Nuclear … Read more
