Life in Korea - Makeup Madness

The one thing I cannot stress enough of after living in Korea is the importance of beauty. I don't think many of the country understand how big of an issue beauty is in Korea. "In order" to be qualified for a job, many Koreans get plastic surgery and the most popular are the double eyelid and nose surgery. When applying for a job in Korea, a photo must be attached on the resume. That is how much they stress the importance of beauty. So where does that leave the rest of the world?

Many girls are always chasing the trend and always looking fashionable, wherever they go, no matter how cold it is outside. You can find girls in skirts, stockings, and heels on a cold winter snowy day. In addition to the dress code, makeup is a must. The concentrated area of makeup is the eyes and you can see that most Korean girls have eyelash extensions which is false individual lashes glued to your lash line to achieve a look of fuller and longer lashes. It definitely comes in handy when you are on a rush out of the door and saves on your daily makeup. 

In addition to having eyelash extensions, circle lenses is a big hit in Korea. Circle lenses are contact lenses which is an upgrade from color lenses from when I was in high school. Circle lenses are used by many Asian girls in order to have bigger, cuter, dolly eyes. In Korea, there are many different color, designs, and sizes for such contact lenses. I cannot deny the fact that I've been living in Korea so long that I've been using them daily as well. After moving back to America though, I have not thrown on a pair since I've landed. Still, it is something that is attractive every now and then for a night out, but it does put a bit of strain on the eyes. Although it is not recommended to be worn for more than six hours because of the size of the contact, many girls in Korea do it anyway. 

Makeup is also a big thing in Korea and there are hundreds of makeup stores in Korea. In fact, you can find two of the same store on one block. Makeup is that important in Korea! With so many choices and so many more stores that are still popping up, the makeup industry is continuing to grow. Cosmetics and beauty is not only important to women, but men in Korea as well. In fact, men sometimes spend more time getting ready than women. That explains their clear skin and why they are so fashionable here as well. 

Looking cute and fresh at all times is extremely important to Koreans. For this very reason, you will find mirrors everywhere in Korea. Train stations, elevators, hallways, and you will always find someone looking at themselves in the mirror. Guys usually fix their hair or check their outfit and girls are usually making sure their makeup is on point. When I say on point, I mean they will pull out a mirror in a coffee shop, restaurant, and on the train. It is not always a small pocket-sized mirror either. You will find girls with mirrors that they would use in the house. There is no shame in using a mirror that big or fixing your makeup in public.

For many, the extent of plastic surgery is considered necessary. In fact, with the Korean culture, many parents "gift" their daughters some kind of aesthetic purpose. I find it to be a shame when students as young as elementary schoolers are already talking the corrections that need to be done to their very own faces.

The culture does worry me from time to time, I know for sure since I have lived in Korea, there has been small changes that I have made to my daily makeup routine. My family has noticed the difference and labeled me as being "more Korean." There is no harm in that, but being aware and knowing how far it goes is extremely important for anyone living in Korea! Just be sure to look your best at all times because you will be judged. Luckily, Korea is a very fashionable place, accepting all sorts of styles which allows you to be as creative and unique as possible. 

Perks of Korea Part 02

Feeding off of the last list of how Korea is so amazing, there are more perks of living in Korea than that extensive list. Some of which just might be unbelievable, but it does exist. 

Public flat spaces - Finding the luxury of your bed, living room, and just seating in public is extremely easy in Korea. They offer an area where you can sit, sleep, and enjoy an outdoor lunch. It's the service of having a picnic without having to bring everything. Considerate to those who have a sun phobia, you will find most of these places under trees, providing with a balance of sunlight. All you need is the most important item of food. 

Seats in waiting areas - You can pretty much find a seat anywhere you are expected to wait. Most often, you will find them in department stores, banks, service companies, but the best one yet is probably amusement parks. Rather than standing in line in the kiddy areas, there are seats for parents and children. We all know how handy that comes when you have a tired child running around all day and wants you to carry them. 

Delivery - Korea just might have the best delivery services. Simply order via phone or online and have food delivered to you as if you were eating in the restaurant. They provide you with silverware that they collect a few hours after you are done eating. All you have to do is leave it outside your door or building. No phone calls needed, no extra tips given, no dish washing. Uh - AAAAAMAZING. 

The special McDelivery- Now, many of us know that Korea is the only place where McDonalds actually delivers food to your front door. That's some pretty awesome service, but I'm talking about something above that level. Hang out at the beach without having to worry about food because there is someone who walks around to take orders, ice cream included! Food comes relatively fast without you having to hike from the sandy beach to the streets, returning with melted ice cream.

Anyman services - With a starting fee of less than $7 per task, you can simply call up a company (해주세요 the literal Korean translation of "do it for me") and find someone to take care of errands and chores for you. Depending on the feasibility and difficulty of the job, the price ranges. A few of the many: deliver a package within an hour, pick up your dry cleaning, deliver food, all within the day. Arrangements can be made according to, if needed. Probably one of the best services on rainy days, colder weather.

Mirrors everywhere - Yes, this is serious for women, but it may change you. After living in Korea for almost two years, I realized I have a habit of looking into a mirror as I pass by, just out of habit. I see my Korean co-workers looking into their standup mirror at the office all day. The number and sizes of mirrors that people carry and have in public is to a whole new level. You can find full mirrors in train stations, utilized by both men and women of all ages. It does come in handy when you have to take a quick check before an interview or for most cases in Korea, a date. 

Bus times and alerts - Missing your bus is probably one of the most infuriating things, especially if there is another bus blocking the view of the one you need to board. Luckily, Korea offers sheltered bus stations with maps, outlines, and computers that tell you when your next bus is coming and how far away it is. It also allows you to grab a cup of coffee if you just missed your bus, definitely comes in handy in the mornings! There is now an app in Korean that allows for you to check when the bus is coming as well.

Golf in any weather - Screen golf allows for those who are serious about golf all year around to practice and play anytime of the year and usually anytime of the day as well. With places opening late into the night, playing a game of golf can't be any easier than that. At least with this, you're not walking to chase your ball since everything is automatic. The only downside is if you're horrible, they'll automatically finish the game for you after a few strokes, just to get the game moving along!

4D Theaters - This totally beats 3D theaters because you feel more involved in the movie. How does this work? Water spraying at you, air blowing in your face, a bump on the bum area, and a handful of random things that you have to experience on your own. Definitely go for an action movie to get the full experience!

Couple couches in movie theaters - It's a couple's country and of course, Korea would be the one to offer couple couches where you can snuggle up and enjoy the movie, as if you were at home. It's definitely a cute concept, but only Korea would offer such a thing.

Public bathhouses - This is something that many foreigners are not comfortable with, but the reason why it's so amazing is for the simple fact that you can sleep overnight at a public bathhouse for an extremely low price. This is the ultimate last resort or for anyone who's on a budget and are traveling. Many couples visit the local ones as a date and utilize it as a cheaper alternative than a love motel, just for some bonding time. The more amazing bathhouses will have books, PC rooms, movie theaters and a handful of other sources of entertainment, perfect for family and friends to join in on.

Free concerts - For all of the crazy fans (mostly high school girls) that cannot afford to go to their favorite celebrity's concert, they are always on the lookout for this one perk. Korea is constantly offering free concerts which is always packed with school girls. Do be on the lookout for these because you'll be surprised at how close to the front you can get!

Freebies - Korea is known to give out so much freebies from free samples to gifts to prizes to food just by simply being a customer, even a passerby. It's amazing how high customer service is held and is actually enforced in such a country. Probably the best perk of them all!

Perks of Korea Part 01

I'm pretty sure you've heard by now that Korea is pretty amazing and the list continues as to why Korea is so amazing. Living here for the past two years, I've grown to love the culture and the people, although there are still a few things that bother me. Nonetheless, it's a love hate relationship, more love than hate and I can't imagine how life will be when I move back to Korea. I think Korea actually changes everyone, all in different ways. A few ways Korea has spoiled me and making life that much easier:


Amazing people - People all over Korea are willing to help. Traveling out to the country side, I even had people volunteer to take me to places because I was with a few girls traveling alone. Thankfully, there's no crazy people here in Korea which means they actually are doing it out of the kindness of their hearts!

One other great thing about the locals is the true friendliness that comes from within. They aren't looking to harm people and for those of the younger generation, once they know you speak English, they are more inclined to friend you. Locals are always looking for foreigners to hang out with, practice English, and of course, drink and party with. They label us as the cool kids just cause!

4 wheel shopping carts - Shopping in America is the worst when it's the weekend for the very reason that it is jam packed. Shopping around and being able to go forward, backward on carts that barely want to slide which means getting out of people's way and moving around is difficult. In Korea, and most Asian countries, the four wheels actually slide side to side meaning you can move around easily!
Point system with actual discounts - Using different point cards when you go out shopping and eating, the point system actually adds up to different discounts. It's used as a credit that can be applied to your next order and the best part is, it works on online purchases as well! 

Extra room buses - Buses in America are usually packing people in as much as possible meaning there are rows of four seats. In Korea, you can find a more spacious bus with three seats in a row where its a pair together and one single. These extra room buses allow for you to control the volume to the TV that is playing as well as adjust the seat. You'll practically feel as if you're sitting in your own sofa at home, except you're traveling to another place.

Making your own parking spot - In Korea, practically everyone has a sign that lists their phone number which means if you're blocking someone, they'll give you a call so you can move your car. It's a great concept, except when you get a little unlucky and have someone who does not pick up their phone. For this very reason, a lot of Koreans just make their own parking spots across town.

Booking seat for movie theatre - Asian countries offer the service of reserving a seat before you go into the theatre. This allows for you to not have to go into theaters early to wait on line. It also allows for you to have an assigned seat which means you don't have to feel rude about asking the person to move their bag and such.

Soju is cheaper than water - For all the "alcoholics" or those who know the price of Soju back in the States, it's a lot cheaper in Korea which means you can have a good time at a lower price please be wise about it though!

Free samples - You get free samples of food everywhere as well as free beauty samples when you go shopping, but how about free alcohol in the supermarket. Yes, free samples of wine and beer at the supermarket. It's a bit crazy how they're able to offer so much more just to get you to buy something, even vitamins.

Workout machines in public - Working out in a gym in public allows you to save money at the gym and the best part is the Koreans actually care for their items. They use it and respect each and every piece so you won't find crazy kids breaking these things in public. You'll find some crazy back stretchers and such in Korea, but it's pretty amazing how well they work. The best part is everything being free.

Dust off sand and dirt from your shoes after a hike - It's crazy how Koreans know how to cater to their people by making life so much easier. You don't have to worry about having dusty shoes after a hike because there are machines that allow you to blow off the dust!

Create your own playlist - It's a bit crazy, but music is pretty important in Korea. There are a handful of places in Korea that allows for you to create your own playlist, especially at bars. They're extremely friendly and want you to enjoy your time around. The best part is being able to have a good time on a night out, even if it is at Taco Bell. Yes, Taco Bell allows for you to create your own playlist as well!

Drinking in public - So this should be used with caution and to do so responsibly, but you are allow to drink in public. The best part might be drinking on a hike with the older generation who will generously offer you some of their magkeolli (traditional Korean rice wine) and speak to you in broken English. How about that for a cultural experience!

Freedom as a hospital patient - This is definitely a little weird but for the most part, it is great for those who are looking to get a breath of fresh air and enjoy some time with family. The weirdest part may be though, that some drag their IV with them in public. Yes, it's happened where a patient walked across the street attached to his portable IV.

Sitting in a wet ride and not getting "too wet"- This may defeat the purpose of a water ride but they have a protective film where you can sit and hide under so you do not get too wet. If you do get extremely wet, there is a "drying" station with fans and heat that helps you to dry off quickly. That's probably one of the best parts, how considerate of Koreans!

NO TIP - This is the ultimate perk about living in Asia because they almost all follow the no tip rule. Although some restaurants may charge an extra 10% as their tip, the more fancy ones of course, but it beats having to pay a minimum of 15% back at home. That's a lot of saving when you're living abroad and constantly eating out!

Safety - Aside from some who are freaking out about the North Korea-South Korea situation, Korea is a relatively safe place to live. There aren't as many crazy things happening in Korea as there are in America. For one, you can pass out drunk in the middle of the streets, sleep the night away, and no one will disrupt you. You may have a few photos taken of you and exposed via social media, but at least you still have your wallet with all of your money in it.

Story of My Life - Closing the Chapter in Korea

Packing up the two years of my life in Korea is extremely difficult. There has been so many memories in Korea that I am not ready to let go of. Lately, I've been reading a lot of articles along the lines of "things to do before you die, how to chase your own happiness, how to live life with no regrets, what to do in your 20s" and I realized that I am grateful for this opportunity I was given to move to Korea.

I'm not saying that everyone should  move to Korea, I mean some bad things has happened to me here as well, but the good outweighs all of the bad. For starters, I put on a TON of weight, literally 25 pounds (12 kilograms) and that's because Korean food is amazing! The price, value, taste, and service you get here beats everything back in New York about ten folds. My favorite dishes which I am probably going to load up on before leaving is Korean fried chicken, Dakgalbi (spicy chicken stir fry), Galbijjim (marinated meat), and of course the tons of amazing street food that I just can't get enough of. Yes, I think this explains the 25 pounds I put on. At least everyone is being supportive and telling me to lose it when I get home because I might not get another chance to experience this!

 

In addition to the amazing food in Korea, the culture and lifestyle is amazing. On a personal note, because I don't drink, I can't enjoy it to the max like some of my friends have. Still, Korea is full of explorations from city to city, amazing views for morning hikes, and of course the booze. You'll find the older generation drinking on hiking trails and offering you a sip of their magkeolli (Korean rice wine) and gladly chat it up with you on the trails. They are extremely friendly and it makes life here that much more fun.

One thing that I'm really going to miss is the safety issues in Korea for the very reason that there aren't any. Korea is so safe and trusting in one another that stores keep their goods outside without any supervision. Koreans are least likely to steal, even if someone is passed out drunk on the streets. The person can have a cell phone in their hand and their wallet on the floor, no one would actually go over to pick pocket them. Unfortunately, I cannot say the same about many places back at home.

Lastly, the friendships and bonds that I have made here is something that I am definitely not ready to leave. It's funny how some people say they hate it here and that sticks to the heads of others, but they're oblivious about how many good people they meet here. I have met so many great people here, locals and foreigners, that it makes leaving this life difficult. It may be ironic to say, but of all the foreign teachers that I have met in Korea, I am the second to officially leave from our core group of almost ten. In fact, the first person to officially leave our group was just last term and my friends who are still here, signed another year. This means they're going into their third year!

Now who would actually invest three years of their time to a horrible place? Money can only take you so far, but it goes to prove that Korea is an amazing place. Friends are constantly renewing their contracts and not even leaving the branches for another. They love the branch that they work at and build relations with others that go beyond their life in Korea.

Korea has been the place where I have started and fulfilled most of my bucket checklist before I die. No matter what bad has happened, the good has outweighed all of it. I am sad to leave, still indenial that I am leaving, but I just might come back one day! For now, traveling around and then making my way back to Seoul to say my final goodbyes. 

Story of My Life - Packing up in Korea

For anyone who is packing up  to head back to the States, a few tips and word of advice that can come in handy for you.

 

Donations

Let's admit it, living in Korea and being surrounded by so many cute and cheap things, you've probably picked up a handful yourself. For the limited amount of space that you can return home with (usually two check-ins, one carry on and one personal bag) this is just not enough! Give a hand to those in need and donate the extra clothing that you have. With the Philippines needing as much as they can at the moment, throwing a few donations that way will help. Many churches are collecting for any donations they can get so your extra clothing, pillow, bedding and other goodies will come in handy.

 

For those of you who are not looking to stray so far as to donate to the Philippines, go local. There are tons of donation bins that are set up around neighborhoods that make donating easy. You just simply slide in your donations in and walk away. This is the quickest and easiest way to get rid of your stuff.

 

On a personal note, I actually took all of my donations (mostly blankets, pillows, canned foods, sauces, cook ware) and stored them away. Through the packaging and cleaning out stuff around the house, I also compiled a bunch of cardboards, books, etc that I collected and handed it off to the grandmother who is always coming around to collect cardboards, cans, and any other goodies she can find the garbage. It definitely hurts me to see this, so stacking up a handful of goodies for her totally made my day because she just was amazed that someone would do such a thing. That and I ran after her for half a block ^.^

 

Packing

For starters, we all hope the packing has been done throughout the weeks. It is not easy to clean out the life you had in Korea, especially a whole apartment full of it. In fact, I have been packing and cleaning out the place for the next person for weeks now. Gradually and little by little, throwing out the things that I do not need to use and packing the rest up. Unfortunately if you are like me and have a lot of stuff over the two years, you just might need to send some stuff home.

 

If you start sending stuff home, at the very cheapest cost you can send it through boat which will take up to two months to get to your home country but the cost for a huge box is totally worth it. The best part is that Korea offers everything at the post office so you can just bring whatever you want to package to the post office and do it all in one shot. They provide you with boxes, markers, packaging tapes, glue, they even have glasses for the elderly and a book of postal codes. On another note, these boxes go by weight and I was able to send two boxes home for less than $50. It actually already beat me to the house because it's already in the States!

 

Also, keep in mind that you may go over in weight and if you do not want to pay the extra luggage costs, keep things that you are willing to toss at the airport in an area where it accessible. This way you can quickly take them out, toss it and not miss your flight!

 

Paperwork

For many who have been able to save a large sum of money, bringing this money back home may be difficult, especially if you don't want to get tax on it. Just to be on the safe side, get the paperwork from your branch to show proof of your working hours. They have a documented list of employees that you can bring back, a list of the total payment you have recieved in Korea and you can also get a breakdown of day to day paperwork if needed for your accountant. It is best to have all this collected and brough on the plane with you before landing in the States, just to be on the safe side. It'll also save you the headache later on.

 

Accounts

Many people tend to close out their bank accounts for good and spend a lot of time at the bank. Korea actually automatically closes out your account if it has been inactive for a year which can save you the time. Just be sure that you do not need to have a minimum in your account because of the different bank accounts there are. If you should, and need to reopen your account in the future, you can do so with the same card because all of your information will be on file.

 

Souvenirs

Packing up some souvenirs to bring home may be difficult because not only the limited amount of space you have in your suitcase, but also the things that you can get back at home. It may make sense to get everyone some cheep soju booze, but remember they do have it in the States, just for a different price. A few things that I suggest to bring back that many will love is cosmetics for the females, and food for the males.

 

There are so many brands that they do not carry back at home (you can find Face Shop, Missha, Nature Republic, maybe a few others) so this gift will definitely be unique. It is also for the simple fact that every woman loves cosmetics and they're cheaper here. Korea is also known for cosmetics, a total win win!

 

Guys are always harder to shop for, so go for the traditional snacks of dried seaweed, unique to the Korean culture. Seaweed is extremely light and you can slip them into side pockets of your luggage which makes it that much more easier to transport. If you are afraid they won't like the seaweed taste that is a little strong, go for a 10,000 won pair of boxers that you can find in tourist areas, that'll definitely be unique and light!

 

If you're looking for something even cheaper and lighter, that is unisex, a pair of socks doesn't hurt. There is the hit "Psy - Gangnam Style" socks that you can give to anyone. Korea does also have a ton of other cute socks that are pretty unique souvenirs, especially the mustache ones!

 

Thank You Notes

You never know when you need a recommendation letter or to come back to the job. For this very simple and important reason, you should always leave a thank you note. No matter how bitter things can be at your branch, leaving a thank you note will come in handy should you need to contact anyone in the future. It's always good to leave on a good note!

Life in Korea - Dating Culture

If you are looking to find your significant other, chances are, you'll have a higher chance to find her randomly in Korea. Because the dating culture in Korea is so important, everyone is always on the lookout for their partner. In fact, Koreans are constantly in relationships and mark Christmas as a couples holiday, not a family holiday. There are a few ways that can increase your chance in finding your significant other, by doing it the way the locals do it.

Blind Dates

For starters, one of the most common way to find your next boyfriend or girlfriend is through a recommendation. Koreans are always setting up friends and co-workers on blind dates. It first starts with a photo of course, followed by casual conversation over Kakao (a free messaging app in Korea) and finally a meet up if both parties are interseted in doing so. If you should get married to this person, be sure to give a big stash of "thank you money" to the friend who set you both up. Maybe that's why Koreans are always setting each other up, hoping for that stack of cash (just kidding of course).

From a personal stand point, any time my Korean friend introduces me to another Korean, he or she always says "set me up on a date with your friend." This comes up pretty much every time I meet a new person who is single. I thought it was a little weird at first, but I grew accustomed to it and finally understood why. Getting set up is not limited to just friends and co-workers, but it is through family as well. Family members and neighbors will constantly recommend meeting up with someone coffee as your potential match.

Group Dates

This might be a little weird but the American version of speed dating is actually common in Korea as well. In fact, you'll see group dates in public because Koreans have no shame. They'll have a group date in a coffee shop where they pick numbers someway and the first girl will pick the guy that she wants to sit across from and so on and so forth. Following this is casual group chat and potentially lead to phone number exchanges. This may happen through an event or through friends that are trying to set something up. One friend calls another and so on and so forth, and next thing you know it, there's a whole group ready to mingle.

Hunting 

Like group dates, "hunting" is more common within the younger generation. It is when groups of girls actually stand around waiting to get picked up. Girls are literally standing outside of hot spot train stations and chatting as if they are waiting for someone. A group of guys should then approach them and ask if they would like to all hang out, it makes things less awkward between the group. Following this is a round or two of drinking (where the guys pay of course). Thing of this as casually hanging out with a group of people, getting to know them. It's just that in Korea, it is an actual form of meeting others minus the creeper status.

Booking

Taking this to a more intimate level (which some may say to be sleazy) is "booking." Booking is where guys buy a bottle and get a table at a lounge or club. Girls who then enter this environment are usually picked up in the middle of the street as they pass by a group of guys with headphones in their ears. It sounds extremely creepy and it can be a little scary if you're not used to being grab by the arm by some guy who will actually strap his arm around you to get you to go to the club. They usually target locals for the very reason that their customers are locals and do not speak much English.

The girls who want to be "booked" then enter the club and will be taken from table to table to meet and talk to guys. These girls are not actually paid to do so and this does not mean you are allowed to be rude and engage in innapropriate actions either. The girls can leave whenever they want to, most leave after having a drink, especially if they're not interested. Although everyone has their own reasons to enter a "booking" atmosphere, it is recommended to act accordingly. Just because you may enter a "booking club" does not mean that every girl who is going to get "booked" is sleazy and easy. Keep in mind that these girls are just getting pick up after strolling around the streets so they may not be dressed for the club. There are a lot of girls who are innocent and doing it just because their friends want to or just for the experience. There is not a lot of places around the world that offer this experience, plus girls get to drink for free, that's a plus for many.

Conversation Partners

A lot of people who are searing the internet for a conversation partner in actuality is searching the internet for a partner. It can be extremely difficult to find someone who is looking to strictly learn, so be patient if you are actually looking for a real conversation partner. Nonetheless, this would probably be something that I would not resort to because it can be a little awkward!

Last Notes

If you're looking to find your significant other the more American way by approaching him or her in public, just keep in mind these few things. Always look your best. In Korea, image and photos are actually taken into consideration before anything else. It is a lot harder to sweep someone off their feet based purely on the kindness of your heart, no matter how "nice" the other person is.

The Korean culture is still pretty traditional where guys approach girls for a phone number. In fact, some guys may even approach you in the street to ask for your phone number based on looks (it has happened before). You can kindly decline of course if you're not interested. It is not likely that girls will approach guys asking for a phone number because of their male-dominant gender norms. Although this is gradually changing, the concept is still fresh and uncommon. The rest of the dating rules apply of course.

Just keep in mind that when you do move to the dating stage, Koreans may move a little quickly. They may decide a lot quicker than foreigners on the time they should be established as "exclusive" only because Koreans are kind of always with someone. It's considered a "sad thing" to be single in Korea (for both guys and girls). Lastly, be ready for what you will get into as a couple as well!

Life in Korea - Pepero Day 빼빼로 데이

Since the creation of Pepero in Korea in 1983 (the original being Pocky from Japan), Korea has decided to create an observance of 11/11 to be the "Pepero Day - 빼빼로 데이" A reflection of four Pepero sticks, this holiday is recognized by all, but celebrated by the younger generation and couples of course. Being that Korea is so popular for the dating culture, of course Valentines Day, White Day, and even Christmas (which is supposed to be a family holiday) is not enough. The creation of Pepero day is just another romantic holiday where couples and young students give each other Pepero.

Because of this extremely recognized holiday, Pepero actually makes about half of theirs annual sales around this time of the year. Although it is a holiday, unlike in America where price of items go up, Pepero is actually still at an average of $1 sometimes even less. What you will notice is that this time of the year, supermarkets and stores stack up on Pepero. This is the only time of the year though, that you will find special Pepero which include a his and hers in blue and red for your significant other. There is also the creation of structures and symbols with the Pepero boxes, extremely creative. 

This year, you will see that I have Instagrammed two new flavors of cookies and cream and honeydew. Korea got pretty creative this year with the cookies and cream hitting the shelves and stirring the attention of many. For those with an extra sweet tooth, this is definitely the Pepero for you being that it is a lot sweeter than the other kinds. In fact, I like my box with a cup of milk, just like an Oreo cookie. I can't say the same about honeydew though for the very reason that less than half of my students actually enjoy it and pretty much none of the teachers at the job like it. With a wide range of flavors which include cookies, almond, peanut, strawberry, nude, honeydew and of course the original, I wouldn't mind getting a huge box of Pepero this year being it might be my last celebration of Pepero Day. 

It makes many a bit curious though, as to how this holiday started. Ironic enough, one story is that Pepero Day started in 1994 by a bunch of Busan middle school students, a few girls to be exact where they exchanged these sticks and wish one another to be "tall and skinny" just like the Pepero stick. Regardless of how the day came about, it is recognized as a holiday where friends give each other Pepero, couples exchange gifts in addition of Pepero and it is actually encouraged by parents because they are the ones that supply their children with boxes to give out. With this though, comes the problem of obesity which some have attempted to combat by switching out Pepero sticks with Garatteok Day (sticks of white tteok). 

Being that I am so in love with Pepero day, I'm still excited. So, HAPPY PEPERO DAYYYYYYY!

Life in Korea - Dentist Visit

If you live in Korea long enough, at some point of your time here, you just might need to go to the dentist. For some of us, it could be for a medical reason and for others it could be something as simple as teeth cleaning, whitening, and even just because you had a bad night. I've been to the dentist three times here in Korea. The first was for a regular check up to see if I had any cavities, and yes, I did. Sadface* The second was for a teeth clean and the last was because of a more unfortunate reason. The crown to my root canal came off, pulling off some extra parts that needed to be fixed.

So in addition to understanding how the dentist works in Korea, you also probably understand that I have pretty bad teeth because I'm constantly eating sweets. Bad addictions! Nonetheless, let's move to the real purpose of the blog which is the difference between Korean and American dentist offices. For starters, it is pretty difficult to find a proficient English speaking dentist in Korea, but I got lucky for the simple fact that there was one across the street from my Chungdahm building which is the one that almost all the teachers from my branch (for years now) go to. 

For starters, going to the dentist in Korea doesn't always require you to make an appointment although it is recommended. This is great for any emergency purpose, especially in my situation, and they'll try to care for you as soon as they can, but it is not always guaranteed. I got pretty lucky the two out of three times that I went that I only had to wait 15 minutes or so but the one unfortunate time was an irritating two hours almost. At the very minimum, there are computers at my dentist office to utilize and pass time, totally beats the American standard of magazines and a TV.

One thing that you'll notice about almost everything in Korea is that they work quick. Going to the doctor in Korea is different than in the States for the very reason that they try to work as quick and hard as they can. This is definitely the one thing I'll miss about Korea, they are serious about business! Another thing that stands out are the gender roles. Women in Korea are more likely to be in "assistant"roles, wearing cute uniforms helping out the male practitioners. There are a handful of women doctors, but of course, to a minimum.

After waiting X amount of time that you do, you are then called into an open area where there are seats that are parallel with one another. There is no privacy between your dentist visit and the person sitting next to you in Korea. The chairs are literally one next to the other which can be a little awkward, but it's something that I've gotten used to in Korea. There actually isn't a lot of space in Korea and space is expensive. So of course, making the best of the limited amount of space is necessary. On the flip side, you know that your dentist didn't forget about you because he or she is probably in the same room as you. 

The one thing that is pretty cool about these seats is that each is equipped with its own TV for your enjoyment. In addition to entertainment purposes, this TV is actually is useful in the dentist office. In fact, electronics in Korea is so upgraded that they have different tactics and machines for services.  For starters, because chairs are in an open area, your file isn't dropped on the door of the patient room, the record is actually pulled up through a wireless keyboard and mouse that the dentist uses to extract your file from a database virtually.

In addition to pulling up files and records, it also takes dentist evaluations and clueless explanations to a whole new level. Remember having to sit in a chair with a heavy mat that protects you from the rays of oral x-ray photos while the camera is moved from side to side and everyone leaves the room but you hear that one little click that signals a snapshot of your jaw? Well in Korea, there is a machine where you stand in the center it and circles your head to get a whole photo of your teeth in one shot. What's ten times cooler is the fact that this x-ray is uploaded onto the computer and pulled on screen when needed. What's ten times cooler than that is the fact that the dentist uses this x-ray so better explain to you and visually doodle on his explanation. Nothing beats sitting there and understanding every little thing that the dentist is going to do because he draws on the x-ray images and explains every step of the way.

Aside from all of these awesome features, there is one thing that is a bit peculiar about the dentist system in Korea. In the States, you may notice that the dentist pretty much does everything from start to finish. Here in Korea, you'll probably be handed over to the dentist assistants for smaller and not so difficult procedures. In fact, the dentist never really cleans your teeth in Korea; all of the assistants are in charge of that. They still do a pretty good job, but of course I would prefer the care of my actual dentist.

Lastly to touch on, pricing is one factor that is important. For those who do not have dental insurance or actually just do not have all the coverage for the dental procedures, a dentist visit will not set you back as much as it does in the states. They really try to be reasonable with their price and the best part is you can probably bargain them a little. That is, only on more difficult and expensive procedures, especially if you have a handful of things to take care of. Do not ask for a discount on a simple teeth clean because that is pretty standard, roughly $50 a session. 

Moral of the story, brush your teeth and try to stay away from the dentist. If you should and need to go in Korea though, don't be afraid to because it they are quick, efficient, and actually pretty awesome!

Life in Korea - Take Out

Living in Korea is pretty amazing for a variety of things, especially in comparison to the states for the very reason that it makes life easier and more convenient. One of the amazing things in Korea is of course, the food. It's a little crazy how the same chains that we have back in America are here, but a lot more amazing here. In fact, because of these amazing differences, it is the one reason why I probably eat out here than in back in the states.

Because food in Korea is never a disappointment, eating out all day and grabbing food to go is a common thing. It's also amazing when you are able to get takeout packaged in a special way. There’s a handful of things that is frustrating about getting takeout back at home because the food can get sloppy messy, or simply difficult to handle on the way home. 

Ironic to say the least though, that living in Korea, I’ve definitely learned a handful of new ways and tricks to package takeout which just might come to use when moving back to America. For starters, they always plastic bag everything for you which makes it easy for you to carry it. Utensils are also wrapped in plastic packaging (straws included) which makes it extremely sanitary and you'll always get some kind of utensils, even from Baskin Robbins.

Baskin Robbins is actually amazing in Korea for amazing flavor combinations and a new flavor every month. In addition to this, Baskin Robbins offer actual ice cream cakes that are the cutest thing and made with different flavors. They even slice cakes of different ice cream flavors and piece them together for the ultimate ice cream cake, without an actual cake bottom like back at home. Last rave about Baskin Robbins in Korea is that when you get ice cream packaged up, you actually pick the flavors that you want, not the ones that are fridge packaged already. It is extremely common for families and friends to get buckets to go or enjoy within the ice cream shop. For anything to go, they will offer utensils and candles for cakes, along with dry ice to keep the ice cream from melting.

In addition to my favorite place in Korea, real food takeout in Korea is also amazing. Mini cakes and desserts are always packaged up in palm sized boxes that keeps the cake from sliding around and smashing the cakes against the walls of boxes. Pizza takeout is even more amazing with handles that help to balance the box when walking. This definitely makes it easy to hold a pizza pie without having to burn your hands.

 

The one last thing to rave about is combination takeouts. When ordering a mix of dishes, they will separate the two to prevent any sauces from spilling over. This goes for fried foods as well. When paired with a salad, crispy chicken is separated from the veggies and dressing is on the side (even for doggy bags). It's pretty amazing that Koreans actually care about their food tasting good outside of the restaurant. That's definitely the total package there.