Meet Ryann, an American who has taught English in Korea for five years. Ryann loves Korea’s culture and people, especially Busan’s friendly vibe and beaches. Passionate about immersing in local communities, Ryann dreams of a marketing career and advises newcomers to appreciate Korea’s beauty despite challenges.
Interview – Work in Korea
- WHERE ARE YOU FROM?
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United States
- WHAT DO YOU DO IN KOREA?
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I’ve taught English and Korea for 5 years in several locations. I started at a hagwon and have moved my way up to a position in the Gyeongsangbuk-do Office of Education.
- WHY ARE YOU INTERESTED IN KOREA?
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I became interested in Korea in 2011 through KPOP. In 2017 I was a student at Korea University and I fell in love with the country and its people. At that time I decided when I finished my degree I would move here. The culture, people, and community are beautiful.
- WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO STAY IN THIS CITY?
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I’ve lived in Busan, Yangsan, and Andong. While I currently live in Andong for work, Busan is my favorite. Despite it being the 2nd biggest city in Korea, the vibe and people were always extremely friendly. Plus it was fun to go to the beach on the weekends and relax on the sand or at a nearby Cafe.
- WHERE IS YOUR LOCAL RECOMMENDATION IN THIS CITY?
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In Busan, I recommend checking out the beach and the cultural village. In Andong, I suggest trying Jjimddak and grilled mackerel. They’re extremely delicious.
- WHAT DO YOU ENJOY THE MOST WHILE STAYING ABROAD?
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I like to travel to less touristy areas and see what those places have to offer. While tourist areas are fun for general activity, you get more sense of the community and culture if you immerse yourself outside of that.
- WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE BEING IN KOREA?
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The biggest challenge for me is balancing work and pleasure. Koreans work very hard and hours are usually quite long. Somedays I want to go out on the weekends but find myself too tired after the work week ends.
- WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN KOREA AND YOUR COUNTRY?
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The biggest difference is how people view societal statuses. Here age, job status, money, and many other factors determine how you’re viewed and talked to by others. It also determines how you can approach and talk to others as well.
- DID YOU EXPERIENCE ANY CHANGE IN YOUR LIFE AND FUTURE PROSPECTS?
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Truthfully, I’ve gained a lot from living here and most of that comes with how I work, how I interact with others, and how I place value on relationships and personal life among other things. Some have been positive and some have been negative bit everything is a learning experience.
- WHAT IS YOUR DREAM?
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My dream is to get a job working in marketing for a bigger company. Whether it be in the entertainment industry or just a local business, I’d love to use my master’s degree to help others.
- MESSAGE TO OUR FRIENDS WHO WILL GO TO KOREA.
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My message to friends who want to come here is to not let any negative experiences define your entire view of the country. Some days will be hard and you’ll question why you came in the first place, but be patient and look at the beautiful and bright things that surround you.
- HOW DO YOU LEARN KOREAN?
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I use Talk to me in Korean and take KIIP courses to practice Korean. I also talk with locals in Korean as much as I can outside of work.
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