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무제 문서
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NEWCOMERS COFFEE
The May Newcomers’ Coffee will be held on Thursday, May 8.
Please meet at 10:00 a.m. in the lobby of Fraser Suites Insadong. Current members are also encouraged to attend.
Once a month, our Newcomer's Chair hosts a coffee morning just for folks new to Seoul or to AWC. Whether you've been in Seoul 6 days or 6 months, this is the perfect way to meet new friends and gather information on everything you ever wanted to know about life in Korea.
Please contact our Newcomers' Co-Chairs with any questions: Cindy Keil 010-3146-1498, ckeil96yahoo.com OR Marianne Trombley 010-3119-6876, trom3101@juno.com.
LIVING IN SEOUL PROGRAM
The LIVING IN SEOUL (LIS) Program is a dynamic information sharing program designed by expats for expats who have recently moved to the Seoul area, offered in English and open to all. The program provides newcomers "instant" information that otherwise could take several months to gather. It is meant as a supplement to the services provided by the various relocation companies in the area. LIS is interesting, informative and fun.
The program includes information and tips that will help you quickly adjust to and learn about your new home. Topics and presentations by experts and club members cover: Korean culture, tradition, holidays and etiquette; Korean infrastructure such as banking, postal services, traffic, police, law, government, medicine, insurance, recycling and transportation; and social topics on shopping, food, dining, entertainment and travel.
The program provides an excellent opportunity to meet others new to Seoul, make new friends and establish a beneficial support network.
Fee includes:
- Informational Package and Handouts
- Morning Beverages and Snacks
Note: AWC membership is not required for program participation.
AMERICAN WOMEN'S CLUB OF KOREA
HELPFUL HINTS FOR NEWCOMERS TO SEOUL
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*Disclaimer: Please be advised that the American Women's Club of Korea does not warrant nor guarantee the services of any of these providers. Rather, this document’s sole purpose is to point out several LOCATIONS in Seoul, in which previous AWC members may at one time have had a positive experience, and where newcomers could begin their search as long as they are responsible to interview, investigate and qualify their own service providers. |
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TIPS BEFORE YOU MOVE FROM USA TO KOREA
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If you are in the process of moving to Korea from the USA, here are a few tips that I found helpful before I left the country:
1.Medication - Since I have three children, I went to Costco in the USA and purchased huge containers of children's aspirin, children's cold medicine, chewable vitamins, Tum's, children's flu medication and also a few bottles of adult medications like Excedrin migraine, Tylenol, Midol, Gas X, Benadryl, cold medicine, and cough drops. All of these items are available in Korea, you either pay a huge marked up price or you use the generic equivalent, but the information is in Korean, not English. I have always felt more confident playing "Doctor Mom" with medications with English dosages so I just pick up medication whenever I am in the USA. I would highly recommend you do the same.
2.Deodorant & toothpaste - I have always purchased American deodorant and toothpaste in the USA since I don't think the Koreans even wear deodorant and they don't really import American brands of toothpaste. You can find these items in Korea but at a considerable price increase.
3.International Driver's license - Korea recently changed their rules regarding licensing and you now must relinquish your American driver's license to the Korean authorities while you are driving in Korea. I would recommend you just get an International driver's license so you can drive in Korea, as well as every location you visit while you are in Asia.
4.Large sized clothing - Believe it or not, Koreans are quite small so they don't cater to women who wear larger than a size 8 shoe or a size 6/8 pants. Since I exceed both of those sizes, I always visit the Nordstrom's' Shoe Rack whenever I'm in the USA. I make sure that I have every possible shoe necessary since I won't be able to just go out and purchase any. I also buy underwear including bras since these are difficult to find in my size. It is also important to have at least one ball gown and matching pair of shoes since the expatriate crowd in Korea loves to have fancy dress-up dances...I think there were 6 annually at last count!
5.American address on an American credit card - You need to have at least one credit card based in the USA so you can purchase things on-line in Korea. Since the zip codes in Korea are six digits long with a dash in the middle (for example, mine is 140-809), it makes it nearly impossible to order things on-line if you have to input a Korean address into the zip code field.
6.Vonage/Slingbox - You might want to use the Internet products available in the USA to improve your life here in Korea. We have signed up to have a Vonage phone number so our relatives can call us without having to pay a high toll. Skype is another popular product currently being used. In regards to television programming, it is really bad in Korea since there are only a few channels that have shows in English. We recently hooked up Direct TV at my parent's home in California and purchased a Slingbox system so we can get live American television sent via the internet to Korea. We also have a DVR so we can record shows and watch them on our time zone. So before you disconnect your cable access in the USA, consider keeping it on until you officially move here and determine if you would benefit from this system. |
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Our favorite question from brand new arrivals to Seoul is...Where do I get my American food fix? If you do not have a military rations card and must buy groceries in Seoul, I recommend you visit all of the stores listed below at least once, check out what items they carry and how much they cost. Depending on where you live, your cooking practices and eating habits, you may determine that one or several of these stores may best serve your needs on a regular basis.
What we have found is that American women are used to finding all their needs met in one dynamic store in America. While shopping in Korea, however, new arrivals need to change their shopping mentality to consider shopping for staples, bulk and specialty products all in different stores. You may experience "panic-shopping" either before you leave America or upon your arrival, but I think we're just happy to find anything that resembles the food we are used to and you MUST EAT. Don't worry, we've all been there.
Below we have tried to clarify what you can find at the stores where many expatriate women shop. We recommend that you visit all of these stores and begin collecting an idea of what they carry and how much it costs. Depending on where you live in relation to the store's location and your cooking practices and eating habits, you may determine that one or several of these stores may best serve your needs on a regular basis. Also, over time you will find that many Korean brands are just as good as American brands for staple items such as milk, ketchup, bread.
BULK FOOD & HOUSEHOLD GOODS SHOPPING:
1.Costco - www.costco.co.kr (English website includes map)
Open 7 days a week from 10am - 10pm. They have 3 stores in Seoul, but the largest one is located in Yangjae off Highway 1. Almost everyone I know goes here to buy fresh meat and then freezes it in zip lock bags (which you can also buy here). I have found that some of the prices are not really a savings because you can’t eat the volume of food before it expires, space in your new home is at a premium and how much ketchup do you really need taking up space in your refrigerator? So make sure you have done your research on which other stores offer the same thing (ketchup & peanut butter is easy to find in Seoul). Also, remember that most ovens and microwaves in Korea are smaller than the ones back home. My first Costco blunder was to buy one of those U-Bake fresh pizzas but I had to cut it into four sections and cook one fourth at a time in my little oven.
WEEKLY STAPLE SHOPPING:
1.Emart - www.emart.co.kr (Korean website)
The last time I checked, there were 12 stores located all over Seoul, but more are being built everyday. Parking at Emart is free if you show your receipt as you leave the parking garage. Emart reminds me of Target in the USA because it is an organized and clean chain store, but the only difference is that it is also a grocery store. Some of the American brand items that the store carries include: peanut butter, pasta, squeezable pizza sauce, jam, ketchup, jar baby food, tampons, spices, Campbell's soup, Philadelphia cream cheese and more. They also have a huge refrigerated section offering tons of dairy products including nonfat, low fat, soy or even goats milk! The produce is good offering both organic and non-organic and they actually wash the vegetables like in the USA (some smaller Korean stores leave the produce covered with dirt so it somehow makes it appear more fresh!). In addition, Emart has gift certificates available which make great gifts since they can also be redeemed at Shinsegae Department store which is an upscale store like Macys in USA.
2.Kim's Club/New Core - Located in Bangbae-dong this is a combination grocery store, department store, play area, fast food place. My relocation company showed this place to me before I moved here, and most of my friends who live South of the river do all their grocery shopping here. They do have good prices on some of their American products like pasta, spices, soups, breakfast cereal, candy. They also have a great play area in the children’s clothing section of New Core, but I wouldn't leave your children there without supervision (leave your husband while you shop).
3.Lotte Mart - www.lottemart.com (Korean website).
The Lotte corporation own many businesses around Seoul including grocery stores, hotels and even a theme park. Lotte Mart is the name used for the grocery store chain and currently there are 8 stores located all over Seoul with more being built everyday. This chain store is almost identical to Emart offering a clean and organized combination of food and household goods. One difference I have discovered is that Lotte Mart carries a huge section for parents with babies or small children. They have some of the BabiesRUs items that new parents need like bottles, high chairs, strollers, etc. I think they have oriented their store more around the household items and less around the grocery items, whereas Emart is the opposite. Other things I've seen there are toys, gloves and hats during the winter, small furniture pieces, shampoo, dog food, shelves, irons, etc. I think the prices at Lotte are slightly lower than Emart, but Lotte doesn’t carry all the same Western food items. Are you confused yet?
4.Hanaro Club - www.hanaro-club.com (Korean website)
02)3498-1105 On the other side of the freeway from Costco in Yangjae, there is a massive Korean grocery store. I have discovered that this is where you go if you want to find the best produce at the best price or if you are a vegetarian. They also have household things like toiletries, dish soap, shampoo, etc and the prices are the lowest I have seen. You also can taste many of the bizarre Korean things that you might not want to purchase until you've tasted them. People there are very friendly and they take credit cards (in case you've spent all your cash at Costco). Most expatriates don’t know about this place, but it is something you shouldn’t miss while you are in Seoul. Afterwards, you can cross the road and visit the fresh flower market.
5.Home Plus - www.homeplus.co.kr (Korean website)
Home Plus is owned by the British brand TESCO. There are 3 locations in Seoul and it is quite similar to Emart and Lotte Mart. There is one location which is near UN Village, so many expatriates living in that neighborhood seem to go there. They have a good frozen food and dairy section including a wide selection of cheese, a good baby section, and also several floors of household appliances and clothing. It is bright, clean and has lots of easy parking.
6.Denmark Milk - Denmark milk has regular, lowfat and nonfat milk and will deliver to your home. Call 02)793-1557 to set this up.
SPECIALTY FOOD & HOUSEHOLD GOODS SHOPPING:
1.Hannam Supermarket - www.hannammarket.co.kr
02)702-3313 phone; 02)702-3314 fax Open everyday from 8:30am - 8:00pm. They are located near the Volvo building in Hannam-dong and offer a wide variety of International foods including some American favorites. They also deliver.
2.Haddon House - 02)794-0511 located in Hannam Heights and is just a bit further from the entrance to UN Village and stocks many foreign goods. I recently visited the Haddon House after staying away for many months, and I was impressed with their selection. This is a great place to buy that one special ingredient that you can't live without.
3.Basement floor grocery in Shinsegae Department Store & Hyundai Department Store - There are many high end food products for sale in the basement of these luxury department stores. If you can afford it, you can get it is the motto here. Some of the items I have purchased here include: fresh spices of all kinds, truffle oil, and goat cheese.
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| Wow, we could write for ten years and still not cover this topic. There are several large shopping markets in Seoul as well as several large department stores and numerous Korean chain stores. We recommend you check out all of these places and then you will know where to shop depending on how much time you have, how much you want to spend and what you are trying to buy.
LARGE MARKETPLACES
There are several well known market places in Seoul where vendors from all over Korea come to sell their goods. This is the place to get the best prices and to test your hand at negotiating Korean style. Our tip is always to get the vendor to quote the very first price, not you. Often times, new expatriates begin negotiating too high in price because they have no idea how much cheaper the item sells for in Korea. Also, may the buyer beware because returns are not possible and something that is being offered for sale today may not be available tomorrow.
1.Namdaemun Market - This is a great place to shop because it is organized chaos. I can find almost anything I am looking for all within the same market and the prices are fairly reasonable, as long as I have the time and energy to negotiate a good price. Some things you can find here include: Fresh flowers, household tools & decorations, children's clothing, art supplies, birthday presents, jewelry, American food products, purses, cosmetics, men’s clothing, women’s clothing, sunglasses, dishes, etc, etc, etc. The list goes on and on. This is a good place to go without a purpose in mind so you can get the lay of the land. There is an information booth if you need directions. The entire market area is surrounded by 8 labeled gates so you can find your way out of the maze.
2.Dongdaemun Market - Huge shopping area but very spread out and divided into "Alley". For example, Toy Alley, Shoe Alley, Sport Alley. Please consult map and information in Focus Book. When I first arrived, I went to the visitor center near the Stadium and asked directions to whatever area where I wanted to buy a specific item. Then they would give me a map and draw exactly which building and which floor to visit. This is the best place to buy fabric, sporting goods and toys. It is closed on Monday mornings until the late afternoon.
3.Myong-Dong Shopping Area This is an extremely popular shopping neighborhood with both an upscale boutique shopping area with chain stores, like The Body Shop and Paris Croissant, mixed in with small, non-permanent vendors selling trendy items outside on the walkway. There are many teenagers to 20 year olds which hang out in this area during the weekend.
4.Express Bus Terminal - Yes, you read that correctly...when the weather gets cold, everyone heads here to shop. It is a massive shopping area mixed in with the huge bus and metro complex near Bangbae-dong. I have found framed art, household decorations, furniture, fresh flowers, gifts, make-up, children's clothing...you can find almost anything. I would recommend dressing in layers, however, since it gets amazingly hot in this underground maze.
5.Yongsan Electronics Market - This is one of the largest electronic markets in Asia. They have prices 20 - 30% cheaper than local stores in Seoul. It is a great place to buy almost any type of electronics including televisions, MP3 players, cameras, video games, neon signs, blenders, vacuum cleaners. On the top floor of one of the larger buildings is a movie theater. Stores are open 10am to 7pm.
6.Hon in Furniture Market - This is the best place to find furniture in Seoul. You could go to the furniture district in Seoul if you want to buy expensive designer furniture imported from Europe and the USA, but many furniture manufacturers without the expensive Seoul overhead can offer better from this furniture town. It is a small "town" or shopping area south-east of the large Costco in Yangjae on the way toward Bundang. I have ordered leather chairs, bed frames, glass-faced bookcases and even ordered a custom couch for a small difficult space, and I haven’t been disappointed. It is easy to buy a piece of furniture for a reasonable price and have it delivered the next day!!! Please email me if you need directions.
7.Noryangjin Fish Market - This is the wholesale fish market where over 60% of the fish in Seoul is sold. There are over 700 vendors selling fish beginning at 6am every day except closed Sunday for wholesale. It is located south of the 63 Building.
UPSCALE DEPARTMENT STORES
There are several high end chain stores in Seoul that remind me of Macys, Sak's 5th Avenue, and Nordstroms. They have some beautiful items if you are looking for high quality for yourself or your family or if you need to impress someone with a gift from an expensive store. But expect to spend top dollar for everything here. Parking is usually free if you buy something in the store and show your receipt as you leave the parking garage. Most of these stores offer gourmet food in the basement, so it is worth taking a look before you go home. I found beautiful chocolate hearts in a box for Valentine’s Day, gourmet Italian pizza and yummy Indian curry to go. This is a great place to satisfy a craving. They also validate parking if you buy something while you're there. The Lotte Department store in Myong-dong also has a large Krispy Kreme donut shop.
1.Shinsegae Department Store - www.shinsegae.com
2.Lotte Department Store - www.lotteshopping.com
3.Hyundai Department Store
4.The Galleria
5.Avenuel - www.avenuel.co.kr
SPECIALTY STORES & SHOPPING MALLS
1.COEX Shopping Mall - www.coexmall.com/foreign/english/
This is a large American style shopping mall with a food court, a movie theater, a huge game arcade and an Aquarium in addition to lots of shopping. It is underground and covers 3 square blocks underneath the Intercontinental Hotels, the Seven Luck Casino, and the massive Convention and Exposition Hall. This is a great place to take your family when you first arrive in Korea since you can find American chain stores like Starbucks, McDonalds, TGI Fridays, and even buy some English books at Bandi & Luni's Bookstore.
2.Kosney’s - This store has a little bit of everything. It reminds me of Pottery Barn with its matching pillows, bath rugs and candles, but it also carries LUSH cosmetics, bicycles, jewelry, dishes, etc. They carry some fun desk gadgets, clothing, toys, IKEA stuff but not at IKEA prices. It is located in Myong-dong near city hall (across from the Lotte Department store) and also in the COEX mall.
3.Casa Mia - www.casamia.co.kr
This furniture & household decoration chain store has 19 branches throughout South Korea and also has furniture inside several of the upscale department stores such as Lotte and Hyundai. This store is just like Pottery Barn in the USA in which there are complete collections that work together or can be purchased to fit in with your already existing furniture. They have beautiful collections of furniture for all rooms of the home including a section called Casa Kids.
4.Poly - M - 02)795-1725 www.poly-m.co.kr
Located in Itaewon this is a great store for dishes, glassware, cookware and it is so inexpensive!! It is on the main street in Itaewon near the Chiel Building. I have bought wine glasses, vacuum sealed canisters, plates, and lots of gifts here. Go on-line to see good selection of what they carry.
5.Hanssem - www.hanssemkorea.co.kr
This website is NOT in English. This is a very popular chain store in Korea that sells furniture for bedrooms, family rooms and kitchens in addition to household goods like wooden hangers, miscellaneous bathroom accessories and household decorations. This store has more of an average quality at a reasonable price and reminds me of Sears in the USA.
6.Marks & Spencer - www2.marksandspencer.com/thecompany/our_stores/world-results.asp?country=31
The internet address is a list of the 17 locations in Korea of Marks & Spencer. If you are the typical Western size woman, I would recommend this store if you are tired of looking for an outfit and don't mind spending some money. I have found lots of wonderful outfits that fit my size, but the prices are slightly higher than what you would pay at Nordstroms in the USA
7.RODEO Drive - This is an upscale shopping area in Apgujeoung named after the famous Rodeo Drive in Los Angeles. Correctly named, this area is where you can find the most expensive original designers like Jimmy Choo, Donna Karan, Versace, Louis Vuitton and also little boutique shops with high quality, expensive imported clothing and goods. There are also some very nice restaurants tucked into this area if you have any money left over after you've finished your shopping.
8.Alpha - www.alpha.co.kr
- This chain store is exactly like Michaels Arts & Crafts in the USA. It is filled to capacity with every art project you can imagine and their prices are reasonable. You can buy school supplies, office supplies, and art supplies in addition to color ink cartridges for your printer, toys for birthday presents, stationery supplies, miniature train town building...the list is endless. The largest store is located just inside Gate 1 in Namdaemun, but there are smaller stores located all over Seoul. |
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| You will be pleasantly surprised at the medical facilities and expertise available in Korea. In addition, many expatriates receive the best medical insurance coverage available as an added bonus of living abroad. If that is your case, you may find yourself taking care of some of the medical conditions that you have been putting off while living in the USA. For example, we have members of the American Women's Club who have experienced successful results for the following procedures: baby deliveries, top gynecological counseling, plastic surgery, knee surgeries, and cancer treatments.
EMERGENCY
The Korean government has set up a 24 hour medical referral service staffed by English speaking medically trained professionals who answer calls and will refer callers to the appropriate medical facility. That number is 010-4769-8212 or 010-8750-8212. The Korean way of handling medical emergencies strikes us as a little bit odd as Americans. For starters, you will notice that everything in Korea is backwards, including the need to dial 119 instead of 911 for a medical emergency. Your location will be automatically identified but you must call from a land line to ensure your location will be exactly found. Also, please be advise that Korean drivers have not been educated or even required to pull over when they see an ambulance coming since there is often times no place for them to pull over.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) offers an emergency service for foreigners in 16 different languages, including English, Japanese, Chinese, French, Spanish, Italian, Russian, German, Portuguese, Arabic, Polish, Turkish, Swedish, Thai, Vietnamese and Indonesian, for reporting a fire, to request rescue or emergency medical services including ambulence. Dispatchers can get an interpreter on the line to get vital information or offer instructions to the callers.
In addition, free translation service is offered. If a person gets lost, and doesn't know where to go or who to ask for help, they can call 119 to receive directions to their destinations. If a person has a serious medical condition, trained paramedics can be provided upon request just by registering to the NEMA free emergency medical service. An application form can be downloaded at www.nema.go.kr/eng/index.jsp or fire.seoul.go.kr. For more information, contact U-119 Team of NEMA at (02) 2100-5378 or visit the Web site www.nemga.go.kr/eng/index.jsp
HOSPITALS
There are over 50 hospitals in Seoul, but there are 3 that staff a complete English speaking International Clinic. We have listed them in order of their popularity with expatriates with the most popular listed first.
Here is a comprehensive list of hospitals and clinics in Seoul:
english.seoul.go.kr/residents/medical/medi_03hosp.htm
1.Samsung Medical Center - International Health Services; 02)3410-0200 office and 02)3410-2060 emergency. www.samsunghospital.com (English website)
International clinic hours are 8am - 5pm weekdays; 8am-12noon Saturdays.
Address: 50 Irwon-dong, Gangnam-gu.
Doctor Shinae Yoo is the Director of the International section of the hospital and she speaks perfect English. You see her first and then she can refer you to any specialists within the hospital if you need them. The American Women’s club members have countless stories about the excellent service and treatment ofr foreigners at Samsung Medical Center. This hospital is south of the river and 5 minutes from the COEX Mall.
2.Severance Hospital - Yonsei Univeristy - International Health Care Center; www.severance.or.kr 02)392-3404; 02)02)2228-5800 (24 hour);
Address: 134 Sinchon-dong; Seodaemun-gu.
International clinic hours are 8:30am-5:30pm weekdays and 8:30am-12:30pm Saturdays.
Doctor John Linton is the Director of the International section of the hospital and he is an American. You see him first and then he can refer you to any specialists within the hospital if you need them. This hospital is located on the campus of Yonsei University and this is where students who attend Seoul Foreign School are taken in case of a medical emergency. The hospital was established by an American in 1885, but it recently completed construction of a brand new facility in 2005
3.Soonchunhyang University Hospital - International Clinic
www.schbc.ac.kr/english 02)709-9158 appointments; 011-321-9161 emergency;
International clinic hours are 9am-5pm weekdays and 9-12 Saturdays;
Address: 657-58 Hannam-dong; Yongsan.
They are the closest hospital to Itaewon area and across from the Thai Embassy.
DOCTORS, DENTISTS, CHIROPRACTORS, OBSTETRICIANS, DERMATOLOGISTS, VETERINARIANS
4.General Practice Doctor - International Clinic - Medical Director is Soo-Young Kim, M.D. 02)790-0857 H.P.#011-222-3706
Website: www.internationalclinic.co.kr
Located on the main street in Itaewon near the Itaewon Hotel.
Address is 737-37, Hannam-2dong in the Hannam Building, Yongsan;
The flat rate to see this doctor is 50,000KW but he is very good and speaks English well. My husband crashed his motorcycle and this doctor dressed his wounds every day for two weeks and my husband healed wonderfully. I have also taken my kids there for their TB shots, a weird rash and numerous colds and flus. He’s good and worth the money, but call and make an appointment so you don't have to wait.
5.Obstetrics & Gynecologist - Dr. Hae-Ree Sung, M.D. - 02)790-0802
Address: Hyundai Liberty House Building 3rd Floor, 258 Hannam-dong, Yongsan.
This is the Obgyn that expats rave about. She no longer delivers babies, but instead specializes in female medical health. She has amazing technology available in her office and it makes your annual pap smear in the USA look like a joke. I went for the full physical and it included a pap smear, a mammogram and ultrasound of your breasts, ultrasound of your pelvic region and thyroid, a body mass index calculation, an electrocardiogram of your heart, a blood test and a blood pressure test. She also has botox, vitamins, hair folicle screening for nutrition problems so she is a one stop shop for many women. She speaks perfect English and she spends so much one on one time with you explaining the results of your tests, that you will wonder why the doctors in the USA don't do the same.
6.Dentist - WY Dentistry owned and operated by Dr. Wonhi Yoo; 02)514-5575;
There are lots of dentist in Seoul to choose from but my entire family sees Dr. Yoo. He is located in Gangnam, but it is very easy to find once you have been there. He does all general dentistry including cleanings, fillings, whitening, crowns and bridges, orthodontics, implants, cosmetic bonding, Invisaline straightening. He does children and adults. He is Korean but speaks perfect English, went to dental school in Chicago and has an excellent bedside manner (nice guy). His wife is the owner of a successful travel agency in Seoul.
7.Dental Surgery - 02)2077-1477
Dr. Byung Hak Che has dental degree from New York University. He does dental implants. Located in Yongsan.
8.Chiropractor - Itaewon Chiropractic Center owned and operated by Dr. Phillip Yoo; 02)798-1446; H.P. 016-727-1446
He is born, degreed and licensed in the USA. He is great for all your aches and pains. He also offers acupuncture and massage.
9.Dermatologist - Teng Teng www.tengteng.com
Owned and operated by Dr. Julius Jon. Educated in the USA and Korea with perfect English skills. Located near Hong-ik University on the 3rd floor. Map available on their website. 02)337-4066
ANIMAL CARE
1.Veterinarian - World Pet Animal Hospital, Dr. Hong-Jun Yoon. 02)379-7575.
Address is 1F, 16bungi, Sinyeong-dong, Jongno-gu.
The girls in the office speak very little English so they always connect you to the doctor. They also have pet grooming and one of the groomers does show dog grooming.
2.Veterinarian - Chung Wha Veterinarian, 02)792-7602, emergency 011-728-4408,
Vet speaks English. They offer boarding, grooming and medical care. Located near the Chung Wha Apartments in the Itaewon area.
3.Han's Hospital 02)6375-8275
This hospital is good sized and located in Hannam-dong - within the Richencia Building at the Hannam Intersection. The doctor can speak English.
4.Choonghyun Animal Hospital 02)549-7582 www.pet7582.co.kr (English website)
This hospital is located in Kangnam; the doctor can speak English and it is well known.
5.Dr. Pet Hospital 02)3443-8275 www.dr-pet.co.kr
This hospital is located in Kangnam and is a large sized hospital.
6.Bow-wow Pet Clinic 02)545-0075 A well-known clinic located in Kangnam
7.Dr.Cho's Veterinary Clinic 032-656-7582 www.dog75.com
This hospital is in Buchun but specializes in operations.
8.My Pet Hospital 02)591-1181
This hospital is located in Banpo-dong, at the entry of Seorae Street right past the Palace Hotel
9.Pet Kennels & boarding - www.seouldog.com
This is a basic place near Yangjae where you can board your dog. It's actually a dog training school but they also take in dogs for boarding. Nobody speaks English there so unless you take someone to translate you cannot exchange much information. This is not the place for a dog who has special needs (dietary or otherwise) this might not be the right place.
MISCELLANEOUS EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Emergency Services - Ambulance/Fire 119
RED CROSS EMERGENCIES (English Spoken) 129 or 1339
Emergency/Fire/Ambulance/National Disaster 313 0845
24 Hour Medical Referral Service 010 4769 8212 or 010 8750 8212
Police (only Korean) 112
English Speaking Police (General Number) 313 0842/0845
Yongsan-gu Police Station 714 0113
Sodaemun-gu Police Station 362 3366
Soegu Police Station 389 1274
Seochu Police Station 533 0607
Songbuk-dong Police Station 923 3560
Taxis 1588 0082 or 1588 3382
Taxis onto military base (must have base pass) 05-05-738-5113
Directory Assistance in English (Nationwide) 080 211 0114
Emergency Translations (Staffed by volunteers) 1588 5644
Seoul Help Centre for Foreigners 02 797 8212
Lost Visa Card 10 800 110 2911
Lost Master Card 10 800 110 7309 |
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| You can still get your hair colored blond, have clothing made tailored to fit your size, spend the day at the spa, get your nails done and even work out at the gym. Here are a few or our favorite spots to consider:
HAIRDRESSERS
1.Tony & Guy - Internationally known chain with Seoul locations owned by Song Joo. She speaks perfect English and lived in London for many years. Prices are a little high ($100 for hair color) but my blond color has always turned out perfectly. I have made appointments in advance and also called on my way there to see if they had an opening. The head massage they give you when your hair is being washed is worth the trip. It only takes 15 minutes to get there from the Hannam Bridge. Address: 80-5 Chungdam-dong, Kangnam-gu; phone 02)541-9985
2.Sophia Beauty Shop - 02) 796-5624 or 011-338-2654. Open Tuesday through Saturday; 10am - 7pm; This hair shop is located in Itaewon next to Yongsan Gate #3 on Kimchee Pot Hill just up the hill a few shops on the left side of the street. Grace Han speaks good English. Prices are $55 for root color; $65 for highlights; $15 haircut; $10 child cut
3.Great Lengths - Located in Hannam-dong near Soonchanyuang Hospital - The owner's name is Song and she lived in the USA for 15 years and speaks perfect English. Her shop is on the second floor on the same side of the street as the hospital. 02) 797-2770 or her cell phone is 011-9700-6035
4.Hair Sensations - Located on Veggie Hill (near Hyatt Hotel) 02)792 0729 or 02)798 3923 or cell phone 011 9747 0840
5.Franck Provost - 02) 558-9779, Located in Fraser Suites, Basement 1 although I was just told it is now called Paris in Seoul. Please go to the website: www.franckprovost.co.kr
6.Family Hair Shop - 02)796-3538; cell 011-9054-3806 Located in Itaewon on ramp just up from the Pizza Hut. They speak English and serve a lot of the off post military women and men. They are open 7 days a week from 9am - 8pm. Walk ins are welcome.
USO
The USO located at Camp Kim is for both military and civilians in Seoul. Its main purpose is to make your stay in Korea fun. YOU DO NOT NEED TO BE AMERICAN OR HAVE A BASE PASS TO GO HERE!!!!!
Four great things about the USO:
1.Hamburgers!! They have a great American diner serving hamburgers, hotdogs and fries but they are only open for breakfast and lunch during the week.
2.Tours!! The USO issues a monthly calendar of tours and events including white water rafting, trips to the DMZ, trips to various cultural sights as well as amusement parks.
3.Travel Agency!! The USO has an on-site travel agency offering great travel packages in addition to helping you to book your own individual trip. They speak English and get amazing deals. I have used them for over 5 trips and everything has turned out great. Contact Mrs. Park at 02) 793-3478 or email her at appleuso@yahoo.com
4.Magazines!! This is the best place in town to guy American magazines because they are only marked up $1.50 over cover price and you can pay in dollars or Korean Won.
ENGLISH BOOKS AND MAGAZINES
1.Kyobo Bookstore - www.kyobobook.co.kr
The Kyobo Bookstore is the largest and most famous book store in Korea. It boasts ten stores in seven cities, the most famous one being its Main Store, or Gwanghwamun-jum in Seoul, which is located right under the Kyobo Life Insurance Building, near the Seoul Finance Center and City Hall. They have a reasonable sized English section including best sellers, children’s books, travel guides and gift certificates.
2.Bandi & Luni's - 2 locations in Seoul; one in the COEX mall and the other in the basement of Samsung Building near Insadong. Large English section.
3.Seoul Selection - www.seoulselection.com
Heard they sell English books on Korea, but haven't been in yet. The shop is located near city hall on the right side of Gyeongbokgung Palace. It is near Anguk Subway Station, Line no. 3, Exit 1.
4.What the Book - Located in Itaewon near “Hooker Hill” is a second hand bookstore
5.Ebay - many private ebay sellers will ship to Korea.
SPA, NAILS, JEWELRY
1.Spa Day - Wonderful place to go for a facial or massage. Located just near the Hannam Bridge before the entrance to UN Village. Address is 202 Liberty House Building 2nd Floor, 258 Hannam-dong, phone 02)793-0777
2.Lee Jewelry - Soo Nam Lee is the owner of Kab Ja Won Town on the main road in Itaewon. She has the most amazing jewelry. She can make anything you see in a magazine, or create something new for you. Phone 02)796-6048; H.P. 011-448-2853; Address: #168-17 Itaewon-dong; email jewelry_lee@hanmail.net
3.Desert Diamonds - Anne Hailes Duncan is an expat who owns her own synthetic diamond company in Seoul. She has beautiful imitation jewelry set in 18K gold. She can also make custom jewelry. Call her for a private showing or to host a private party in your home. She can be reached at 010-6350-8220 or 02) 745-8644
4.Pro-Nails - This is a great place on 3rd floor behind the Hamilton Hotel. Make an appointment because they are very busy. They have gift certificates available. Phone 02)749-1525
HEALTH CLUBS
1.Seoul Club - www.seoulclub.org
The Seoul Club is the most popular expatriate club in Seoul. They have indoor and outdoor swimming pools, squash courts, tennis teams, golf membership, and several restaurants. Many Koreans have their child’s birthday party there. For children, there are dance classes, babysitting and even Taekwondo.
2.Grand Hyatt - www.seoul.grand.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/activities/fitness/index.jsp
The Grand Hyatt’s fitness center is quite popular with expatriates who don't have children. The club is more upscale than the Seoul Club with less children and no babysitting. The Grand Hyatt and Seoul Club have tennis teams which play against each other.
TAILORS
1.Mrs. Ahn - She teaches sewing lessons and also tailors. I had her make a dress for my daughter by giving her two existing dresses and asked her to combine the style of the arms with the style of the skirting. It turned out beautiful and was reasonable. She took a week to make it. I asked her to buy the matching magenta colored chiffon for the arms to match the magenta silk I had already purchased and she did that too. I think I paid 60,000won for the dress. She also has made table cloth and matching linens for my dining room table. Her number is 02) 353-0594 or 018-369-3023 and email is ahn0594@naver.com. I haven't talked to her in two years, so please let me know if these numbers are still good.
2.Mr. Cha - He is going blind but he is very popular with diplomatic wives and goes to Europe once a year to make entire wardrobes for some expats who used to live here; He comes to your house for fittings but sews somewhere else; he is the best technical sewer out of the three...more detailed work; also most expensive. I had him make a purple ball gown for me and it turned out really nice, but the price seemed a bit high $150 plus I bought the fabric and trim. Call him at 019-318-0151
3.Mrs. Han - She has sewed many costumes for Seoul Foreign School; you buy the fabric and she will sew whatever you want for 8 hours at your house and she costs 90,000 for the day. I had her make a ball gown (including lining), a little mini jacket for another ball gown (including lining) and altered two other items that didn't fit right. All this cost 90,000 won. She can make pattern herself but you have to at least have an idea what you want. Look in magazines for ideas. Book her by the day at 017-282-7249 |
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REGISTERING YOUR PRESENCE OVERSEAS
You may have received this newsletter either by registering your overseas stay with the Embassy/State Department, or after signing up on the Embassy website by providing only your email address. Whichever way you signed up, you should be receiving our monthly newsletters and periodic warden messages that announce important events and security-related news. If you have never registered with the Embassy, we encourage you to do so. Registration is a voluntary way of telling us that you, as an American Citizen, are in Korea, whether for a long-term stay or a short-term visit. In the event of an emergency, we use registration information to communicate with you. Such situations could include family emergencies in which relatives in the U.S. request that the Embassy contact you, or an emergency in which you yourself are injured and we need to contact family members. You can register your stay in Korea, or trips to other countries, on-line at travelregistration.state.gov. You can update your contact information at any time on the website. If you register, you'll still receive our emailed newsletters and warden messages, but you'll also be better protected in the event of an emergency.
FREE TRANSLATION SERVICES
Information services and assistance in English are available free at Landline 1330 or Mobile 02)1330. For example, if you need a phone number for Pizza Hut delivery, just dial and they will tell you how to do it. If you can't communicate with a taxi driver, just dial and ask them to talk to your taxi driver for you as a translator.
INTERNET WEBSITES
The Seoul Times: On line newspaper written in English, with helpful information for foreigners (e.g. listed under "Entertainment" - Arts & Performances/Restaurants & Bars/Tour & Travel/Shopping Guide) Website: theseoultimes.com
Information website written for Expats by Expats!
Website: www.expat-advisory.com
Getting Around: "Hi Seoul" Seoul Public Transportation System Guide (aka Route finder for Bus/Bus and Subway)
Website:bus.congnamul.com/SeoulRouteWebApp/viewenglish/map.jsp
Getting Around: "Hi Seoul" Seoul Metropolitan Government-Route Finder & Interactive Map
Website: http://asp.congnamul.com/seoul/english/map.jsp |
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Once you've gotten more comfortable living in Seoul, there is no reason why you can't go out to dinner like you did back in the USA. There are so many great restaurants in Seoul that you really can find anything you miss from back home.
CULTURAL FAVORITES
1.Mexican - There is a Taco Shack that is very near the kimchee pots and the bottom of Veggie Hill in Itaewon. There are only 5 tables so there is a line out the door on Friday and Saturday nights. There is also a great Mexican restaurant on base called Oasis. La Salsa Loca is a fresh Mexican grill located in Yeouido-dong and another one located in Gangnam. Phone 02)780-8133; www.lasalsaloca.com
2.Breakfast - American Cafe in Itaewon has eggs & bacon. Puffin Cafe 02)790-6062 www.puffincoffeeco.com near the entrance to UN Village is really cute and good for breakfast, lunch, brunch or English high tea.
3.Indian - Dal is an amazing restaurant in the Songjae Art Center. Chakra is a very popular restaurant that caters to your home for at an excellent price.
4.Italian - Italonia near the Lexus dealership in Itaewon has great food, an extensive wine list and several private rooms. Sortino's on the main road in Itaewon is owned by a Canadian/Italian and is a favorite of the Italian Women's Club.
5.French - Le Saint-Ex is a popular lunch restaurant located in Itaewon behind the Hamilton Hotel and to the left.
6.Thai - Thai Orchard in Itaewon is very good and has a well priced lunch set price lunch. It is located next door to the Itaewon Hotel on the 3rd floor. Phone: 02)792-8836-8. Also, many expats like the take out food from Buddha's Belly in Itaewon.
CLUBS IN SEOUL
There are several ways of meeting people and listed below are some of the Groups that regularly meet and some "Club" Information.
1.American Women's Club (AWC) normally meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in the Chinese Restaurant. Website: www.awckorea.org email: awckorea@yahoo.com.
2.British Association of Seoul (BASS) normally meets the 4th Tuesday of the month at Seoul Club. Website: www.britishseoul.com email: basseoul@yahoo.co.uk
3.Seoul International Women's Association (SIWA) normally meets the 3rd Wednesday of the month at the Sofitel Ambassador Hotel. This is the most internationally diverse group in Seoul. Website: www.siwapage.com email: siwamail@yahoo.co.uk
4.Australia & New Zealand Association (ANZA) normally meets the 3rd Tuesday of the month at the Grand Hyatt Hotel. Website: www.anzakorea.com
5.Canadian Women's Club (CWC) - meets at members' homes the second Tuesday of the month and gets together on the fourth Wednesday of the month for a group activity (lunch, museum visit, skating, shopping trip, etc.). sujaybee@yahoo.com
6.Career Women in Korea (CWIK) - normally meets the 3rd Wednesday evening of the month at the New Seoul Hotel (next to the Press Club and behind City Hall). Website: www.cwik21.com or career_women_in_korea@yahoo.com.
7.Working Women's Network (WWN-SIWA) This group is part of the Seoul International Women's Association (SIWA), but serves the needs of full time working women. They normally meet once a month in the evening. workingwomensnetwork@siwapage.com or go to www.siwapage.com or http://groups.yahoo.com/group/workingwomensnetwork
8.Mostly Over 40:meets informally for lunch one Sunday a month and is made up of people who are mostly over 40. mostlyover40@yahoogroups.com
9.Club Italia hosts a lunch 13:00 every Sunday in the large basement recreation room on the premises of St. Francis Catholic Church and the Franciscan School in Hannam-dong. The lunch costs W15,000 and is open to everyone. Website: www.clubitalia.or.kr
10. Overseas Chinese Women’s Club (OCWC) meets about once a month and is open to all women who want to learn about Chinese culture, make new friends, share their talent and enjoy good food. Chinese is spoken at the meetings, but as more than one third of the women speak English, one of them will interpret for non-Chinese speakers. Contact ocwckr@hotmail.com or go to ocwckr.spaces.live.com
11. French Association - Association des Francophones de Corree (AFC)
12.German Club - www.deutscherclubseoul.com
13. Hispanic Speaking Friends The is no formal Hispanic club but there is a group of Spanish speaking friends that try to get together once a month. For more information, contact Karla Delgadillo, bienbonita@hotmail.com
14.CineCafe - Korean movies with English Subtitles - sponsored by EKF and Seoul Selection the 2nd and 4th Wednesday morning and 3rd Thursday evening of each month. For directions and details about the films, please go to www.ekf.or.kr
15. Wine & Women in Korea (WWK) - meet once a month to taste and discuss wines.
16. International Hikers Club meets every Saturday. |
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AWC
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