Have you ever needed to overcome a language barrier while accessing healthcare in Korea? Many of us have, even those who speak Korean somewhat fluently. Language barriers can be challenging but not impossible to navigate. This blog post offers some tips on how to overcome such language barriers that may help.

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If you want to see the beauty of autumn in Korea, you must check out Asan Gingko Tree Road. It is easily one of Korea’s most photogenic walking roads and is located in the Asan-si countryside. About Asan-si Asan-si is located in the Chungcheongnam-do province of South Korea. The administrative district hosts a vibrant city and extensive rural areas. Situated approximately 90 kilometers south of Seoul, Asan-s is known for its rich cultural heritage, particularly its role in Korea’s history during the Joseon Dynasty. Asan-si contains various historical sites, such as the renowned Oeam Village, where visitors can experience traditional Korean architecture and lifestyles. Its proximity to natural landmarks like the Asan Spavis hot springs further enhances its appeal as a destination for relaxation and cultural exploration. In recent years, Asan has seen significant urban growth, driven by its thriving industrial sector, especially in the fields of technology and manufacturing. The city is part of the wider Asan Bay Industrial Complex, which attracts both local and international investment. Additionally, the region is a key player in South Korea’s transportation network, with the KTX high-speed rail connecting it to major cities like Seoul and Busan. Asan also offers a blend of modern amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational facilities, making it an attractive location for both residents and visitors. One of Asan’s most scenic and unique attractions is its famous Ginkgo Road, a tree-lined path that stretches through the city and is renowned for its breathtaking display of golden ginkgo leaves in autumn. This picturesque area provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban charm, making it a favorite for both locals and tourists seeking tranquility and a connection to nature. Asan Gingko Tree Road (은행나무길) Eunhaeng namu-gil 은행나무길 is also known as Asan Gingko Tree Road. This is probably one of the most popular Autumn walks, especially if you’re anywhere near Pyeongtaek. While it’s a beautiful walk at any time of year, you won’t want to miss it during the Autumn Season. This area is great for a walk or run, alone or accompanied. And for movers of any age, it is also stroller-friendly, dog-friendly, and bicycle-friendly. There’s even a spot to rent bikes. However, please note that the pedestrian walk and bike trails are separate. This walk is lined with a few cafes, such as Eunhaengnamu-gil Cafe (Gingko Road Cafe), which also has tarot card readings. Also, Underhill or Eondeohil, has lunch options and a rooftop level. However, Gallery Cafe Monet has the best view of Gingko Tree Road and also has its own, albeit small, parking area. Parking for Asan Gingko Tree Road You’ll likely see a few parking lots along the path which fill up quickly and may be difficult to get in and out of during peak season. While I tend to prefer finding street parking nearby and walk to Asan Gingko Tree Road, here are a couple of recommendations since parking becomes quite competitive during the Autumn season. Visit Hyeongchungsa Shrine (현충사) While in the area, make sure to also visit the Hyeonchungsa Shrine (현충사) nearby, which is my favorite Autumn experience. Hyeonchungsa Shrine is free and in walking distance to Asan Gingko Road, so you can visit both and not have to search for parking twice. Explore Asan Beyond the Ginkgo Trees When most people think of Asan, the golden ginkgo tree road comes to mind—but there’s so much more to discover. From folk villages and mountain trails to markets and family-friendly attractions, Asan offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. Check out United on the RoK Magazine’s full guide here: Asan: Beyond the Ginkgo Trees. How to Source Additional Information About Locations If you have questions about things like business hours regarding the Asan Gingko Tree cafes and restaurants, you can use the free foreigner support app/phone number 1330. Join the Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group You are also welcome to join our Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group. The South of Seoul moderated community of active and friendly Pyeongtaek international residents makes moving to Pyeongtaek easier. We enjoy seeing the posts for Pyeongtaek and the immediate areas: Osan, Yongin, Anseong, Cheonan, Asan, Hwaseong, and Suwon. Volunteer with South of Seoul Interested in working with a fun team of talented volunteers? The South of Seoul volunteer team is always looking for other like-minded folks to research information, compile blogs, and edit content. LeaDan Yee, M.EdLeaDan Yee holds a Master’s in Education with a focus in Secondary Education and Teaching – Language Arts and Bachelor’s in Psychology, with a minor in Speech. As a Cultural Liaison and Content Creator at South of Seoul, Ms. Yee focuses on creating content for families interested in traveling and those with toddlers.  She is especially interested in opportunities to share her Native Hawaiian background and empower others to be cultural ambassadors. Prior to joining South of Seoul, LeaDan worked as a High School Speech Teacher and Adjunct Communications Professor. She specializes in Public Speaking, Argumentation and Debate, Team Management, and Event Planning.

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Looking for restaurants in the Dunpo-ri Asan area? The working-class, immigrant town of Dunpo has some delicious restaurants. Put on your adventure shoes and go try some spots in this pocket-sized town. About Dunpo-ri, Asan-si, South Korea Dunpo-myeon is located in northern Asan-si, South Korea, and includes both the tiny town of Dunpo-ri and the larger town of Asan Techno Valley. It is also located near Paengseong Pyeongtaek which is home to the Camp Humphreys US Army Base. Today we are going to look at places to eat in Dunpo-ri. Dunpo-ri, Dunpo-myeon has a number of countryside restaurants that we recommend trying. Dunpo-ri hosts a large number of immigrants which makes it a delicious place to grab a meal. It also makes it a place filled with humble establishments so leave your judgment at home and get ready to feel uncomfortable at first. That’s because folks will absolutely stare at you and wonder if you are lost. Don’t worry, you will get over it and they will get over it and then it will all be normal again. That said, if you only want “fancy” things, dining in Dunpo may not be for you. However, if you enjoy experiencing many cultures, then you will enjoy these restaurants. Many of us who volunteer for South of Seoul dine-in Dunpo often. Although it may not look modern and fancy, the food can be very delicious. 8 Cozy Dunpo-ri, Dunpo-myeun, Asan-si Restaurants How to Source Additional Information About These Locations Whenever you have questions about things like business hours, you can use the free foreigner support app/phone number 1330. In addition, this is really helpful especially around holidays to make sure if a business will be open when you want to visit. With this app, you can prevent a wasted trip to a location when they are enjoying their regular day off or a holiday. Join the Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group You are also welcome to join our Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group. The South of Seoul moderated community of active and friendly Pyeongtaek international residents makes moving to Pyeongtaek easier. With so many different voices and opinions, it is always refreshing to see everyone’s adventures in our local community. In addition, all of the posts shared introduce our community to new places and old places that can feel new all over again. While this list of restaurants in Dunpo-ri Asan is not comprehensive of the entire area, we may have missed your favorite spot. Therefore, make sure to share with the community and share your favorite spots with us! Volunteer with South of Seoul Interested in working with a fun team of talented volunteers? The South of Seoul volunteer team is always looking for other like-minded folks to research information, compile blogs, and edit content. South of SeoulFounded in 2015, the South of Seoul team consists of volunteers on three continents working together to support English-speaking people traveling or living in South Korea. South of Seoul volunteers work with organizations and individuals across South Korea to improve equitable access to information across South Korea. Much of South of Seoul’s information focuses on Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. Blogs published under the authorship of “South of Seoul” include blogs compiled by multiple volunteers to improve access to standardized information unrelated to individualized personal experiences. www.southofseoul.net

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We’ve driven past Pinnacle Land more times than I can count, but there is nothing interesting about it from the road so we never stopped. It’s simple not marketed in a manner that stands out to foreigners. However, since I’m dedicated to knowing everything there is to do in and near Pyeongtaek, I finally had to go check it out. Like everything I’ve done so far in Korea (except a super weird Alice In Wonderland Park I once visited), Pinnacle Land turned out much cooler than I thought it was going to be. Hidden away so that it can’t be seen from the road, its basically a European inspired garden on the side of a large hill (or mountain as they are all called here). Throughout the garden there are endless sculptures, a variety of small animal exhibits that are well maintained, cool and shaded paths, fountains, flowers, and finally a giant water fall and pond featured at the pinnacle of the garden.  This themed park is perfect for both couples and families. Families will love the knee deep paddling pool for the kiddies in the summer, as well as lots of candies and treats to get the kiddos all hopped up on sugar while they run up and down the hill. Now, warning for those that are horrified by culturally inappropriate exhibits. There is a terrifying and bizarre “Indian Village” located on the left side of paths that somehow manages to mix South American, North American and African indigenous peoples into one lump. This thing is so over-the-top you won’t quite know what to think. That said, I’ve actually seen similar “cultural exhibits” in the states that mixed together Korea, Japan, China, and most of South East Asia into one “Asian” group – so it’s a bit like that – completely offensive. Apart from that speed bump, the cafe also excellent coffee where you can sit and discuss everything wrong with the “Indian Village” or the loveliness of the gardens and hilltop waterfall. We had expected them to just phone-it-in on the coffee but they didn’t. My espresso was excellent and my husbands macchiato was the closest thing we have seen to a traditional Italian version we’ve had in the countryside. If we had kids we would come here regularly in the summer because of all the room to play and the lovely pool for them to play in. It’s awesome for them because the hike isn’t too difficult, the paths have tons of shade and places to rest, and there is an ice cream stand at the top of the hike. There is an entrance fee (see photo below) but parking is free.   

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