Lifestyle Archives

Category: Lifestyle

08 Mar

Taking Care of 4B and 4C Hair In Korea

Many people think about things when they arrive in a new country. However, some genuinely wonder… “How will I do my hair?” There are so many options for taking care of your hair needs, but for the 4B and 4C hair clubs, that’s usually the most challenging task! Honestly, Seoul has some great places to meet your hair care needs! After three years of trial and error, these are the best things I have learned to help me care for my hair!

Preparing Before You Arrive

First, as you pack for your move, bring your favorite products. Bring enough to last at least three months while you get settled! That might seem like a lot, but planning for the unexpected is wise. Waiting for your ARC usually takes up to six weeks after your arrival, but once you have it, a world of hair maintenance opportunities will open up! For instance, Coupang has expanded its section for international products. While the offerings rotate, they carry staple items like “Mane ‘n Tail,” “Shea Moisture,” and various perm/texturizers. Although ordering these requires a customs clearance code, you can easily apply for one after receiving your ARC. There are also other websites where you can purchase products, such as iHerb, which stocks items like “Cantu,” “NOW,” and “Mielle,” to name a few.

Taking Advantage of Instagram

Second, if your style leans towards protective styles like braids or twists, I highly recommend connecting with stylists through Instagram! Itaewon and Pyeongtaek are excellent locations to take care of your hair needs! In Pyeongtaek, being near the US military base provides more options for finding stylists who can work with wigs and sew-in styles, as well as natural hair care, including keratin treatments and silk presses. However, there’s a beauty supply store in Pyeongtaek, off-base, which is about 2-3 hours outside of Seoul, depending on transportation! If you can’t make the trip, don’t worry—”Honey Hair” is an online beauty supply store that ships domestically within Korea.

Magi-Straight Perm!

Lastly, if you’re feeling adventurous and want to try the famous Korean magi-straight, it’s basically a perm—just a milder version! Many places use Naver Booking to book these appointments. You’ll also need an ARC because a Korean phone number and bank account are necessary. If you can speak a bit of Korean, it’s a plus, but don’t worry if you can’t! I suggest checking out the salon on Instagram and sending them a DM to ask before you make an appointment. Here are three great questions to start with: ① Are you comfortable working with 4B/4C hair? ② How much time will the appointment take? ③ What’s the total cost? Typically, if they’re open to booking you, they might recommend more than one appointment to achieve the best results. Just keep in mind that this can be a pricier option, even for less textured hair, so it’s good to prepare for that. But don’t worry, getting this done isn’t impossible! Just a little extra research and finding the right place where you feel your hair will be well taken care of can make all the difference!

CDI Teacher

Xandria is a long time history lover turned English teacher. After completing her Master's at the University of Houston, she decided that it was time to see the world. With a love for language, architecture, and understanding cultural diversity, Korea felt like the perfect place to explore. Since her arrival to South Korea in 2022, Xandria has continued to form great bonds with her students, instill confidence in them, and hope they continue to expand their love of language and create their own perspectives from learning.

01 Mar

LifestyleTravelBy aclipse

Getting Cosmetic Procedures In Korea

Korea may be one of the most famous places to get cosmetic procedures. Injections, laser treatments, and plastic surgery are just a fraction of the many medical procedures that are available in Korea. They actually have the highest rate of plastic surgery procedures in the world per capita!

As someone who has gotten many different types of treatments (both cosmetic and holistic) in South Korea, here are some of the reasons why Korea is one of THE BEST places to go for your cosmetic needs. Cosmetic procedures aren’t for everyone, but if it’s something you’re interested in, let me show you the way! Check out this video about my experience going to a clinic in Gangnam, Seoul!

Affordability Of Procedures

Korea has, without a doubt, some of the best prices for procedures compared to countries like America, the UK, and Canada! For example, the average cost of 30 – 40 units of Botox in the United States can range from $300 – $1000 depending on where you visit. In Korea, 30 – 40 units of Botox can range from 25,000 won ($17) – 200,000 won ($137). Again, this all depends on where you visit, which brand of Botox you wish to receive, and how many units you will need, but it is far cheaper to get Botox in South Korea than in the United States!

Another procedure that is extremely affordable in Korea is laser hair removal. As someone who does this myself, the results have been amazing, and I am paying a fraction of the cost I did for waxing. The results last longer, the pain is much less, and the rapid-fire process makes squeezing in appointments effortless.

On top of the already great normal prices of procedures in Korea, many clinics will have promotional deals that offer an even larger discount! Instead of paying 25,000 won ($17.22) for 5 sessions of armpit laser hair removal, I only paid 10,000 won ($6.89) during a promotion!

Customized Consultations

There are an unbelievable number of clinics and providers for the plethora of procedures you can get. With this in mind, most clinics will offer a free consultation with an English translator! If you have concerns, or wish to receive recommendations on what procedures you could do, these consultations are a game changer!

My favorite part of consultations is that most clinics will happily meet you where you are comfortable. Even if they recommend you undergo injections or more invasive procedures, they will modify your treatments so that you are always comfortable with what you are getting done. Make sure to do your own research on which clinics offer English translators, and what their customer service is like! I like to use Google Reviews to truly see which clinics are trustworthy. Here is also a Korean site that shows customer reviews about some top clinics in the Gangnam area.

Stigma Of Getting Work Done

While some people may think that Korea pressures you to look a certain way, I try to look at it from a different perspective. In many Western countries, getting cosmetic work done can be seen as taboo or an example of not loving yourself. Since cosmetic procedures are so common in Korea, nobody bats an eye if you decide to get work done!

For me, this mindset has eased my prior anxieties over deciding to visit skin clinics while in Korea. It’s very common to see people walking around Seoul with nosecasts, facial bruises, or bandages. While it does take some time to get used to, it truly helps destigmatize the societal judgement that we can deal with when contemplating getting cosmetic procedures done.

Korea is really a utopia for all types of cosmetic procedures. They are lightyears ahead of many other countries in terms of accessibility, affordability, and ingenuity. I would definitely check out the vast selection of skin clinics or dermatologists if you you’ve ever considered it!

Gabriel White, Marketing Assistant

Gabriel (Gabe) White is an English teacher in South Korea. He is a Korean, Puerto Rican-American from the Richmond, Virginia area and received a bachelor’s degree in English from Virginia Commonwealth University. Being involved in student organizations like Filipino Americans Coming Together at VCU (FACT@VCU) and VCU Globe during his college years, Gabe learned just how much he enjoys experiencing new cultures. In his free time, Gabe loves teaching local dance classes, spending quality time with his loved ones, exploring new cities, and watching nostalgic movies.

22 Feb

LifestyleRelocationBy aclipse

Settling Into Life In Korea

When I first arrived in Korea, I was so excited to start teaching English at Creverse and making new friendships and memories. But after a few months, I found that the initial thrill of new experiences began to fade and I wasn’t sure if I would be able to fully adjust. I realized that being far from home can be tough, especially since I had never traveled outside of Canada, let alone lived abroad. But as my time in Korea continued, I found ways to enjoy my new life in Korea while also staying connected to my loved ones. Besides the obvious cure of facetiming family and friends to feel good, here is what has worked for me to settle into my new life in Korea.

Making New Connections

One of the first things I did was join some online groups where other expats in Korea share their experiences. I found Every Expat in Korea, a Facebook group with almost 100 thousand members. People posted about everything from bar hops to getting English medical services and their experiences at their own teaching job. Knowing that others were in the same boat as me made me feel great and helped me to adjust. Another group that I still post to this day is Expat Women in Korea. I really love this group because the women are so uplifting and I even met one of my best friends Emma through the group.

As an avid Reddit user, I also found r/Korea helpful for staying updated on what’s happening around the country. I could follow threads about everything from local news to new restaurants that have opened which helped me feel a lot more integrated in my new life.

Getting Outside

I realized that sitting in my apartment wasn’t going to help matters, so I pushed myself to explore my surroundings. I decided that I had to take myself out on dates and get used to the idea of being alone and going out to try new things. I spent weekends in places like Itaewon, Seongsu, and Hongdae, where I met other foreigners and lots of Koreans too. The nightlife scene took some of the social pressure off because everyone was out looking to meet people and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Exploring these new areas around Seoul helped me realize that it was a lot more diverse than I originally thought. I loved the scene in Itaewon so much that I even ended up moving to a foreigner friendly neighborhood tucked behind it called Haebangchon.

Leaning on My Workplace Community

One of the best outlets I had for integrating in Korea was the incredible support system of teachers at Creverse. All of my coworkers were navigating some homesickness, and knowing that we were all going through similar feelings helped a lot. After work, I often join my coworkers for dinner or a quick karaoke session. I looked forward to my break times so I could chat with everyone in the teachers lounge and talk about the news from back home. I met some of my best friends through my teaching job at Mokdong and I can’t imagine my life without them!

Letterloop

My last tip to enjoy your fresh start but to stay connected to home is a service called Letterloop. My college friend found the site and my group of girlfriends back home has been using it ever since. This site lets you curate newsletters with thoughtful questions to respond to and is the perfect way to catch up on what everyone has been doing that month. We took turns choosing the prompts and made sure to attach lots of pictures which was something I grew to look forward to at the end of each month!

It can be a bit tricky to start a new life abroad, but with a strong support system and an adventurous spirit, I’ve found ways to make Korea feel like home. In the end, my moments of missing home are worth all of the exciting and life changing opportunities that teaching at Creverse has brought me! Life in Korea is good!

English teacher at Chungdahm Learning posing with students

Michelle Duquette, Marketing Assistant

Michelle Duquette is from Toronto, Canada and moved to South Korea in 2015. She has a Bachelors in English literature and a Masters in ESL Education. Michelle has taught at Creverse campuses in Gangneung, Songpa, and Mokdong and currently works as a CDI and April Trainer. Michelle never set out to be a teacher but fell in love with Korean culture and the excitement of being in the classroom. Michelle lives in Seoul with her partner and two cats, Cherry and Frost.

14 Feb

LifestyleTravelBy aclipse

Taking The Train In Korea

After teaching in Korea for a year, I can confidently say the rail infrastructure is easily one of the biggest pros of living in the country. Here are some common questions you might have about taking the train and their answers!

Where Can You Go?

The short answer: Pretty much anywhere, excluding Jeju Island. Major cities like Busan, Daegu, and Daejeon are all easily accessible by train. My friend took a weekend trip to Pohang (the filming site for the popular K-drama Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha), a more rural city, and had no issues getting there by train. A major plus of public transportation in Korea is that if there’s not a train that can get you to your dream location, there’s definitely a bus that will. In other words, the sky’s the limit. That being said, I highly recommend taking the train for long-distance trips.

Where Do I Recommend?

BUSAN. Honestly, I don’t know how anyone can live in South Korea and not visit Busan. This seaside city is a perfect place for anyone who loves cafes, cultural villages, temples, or seafood! My friend has lived in Korea for less than a year, and she’s already visited twice by train! A one-way ticket from Seoul to Busan is anywhere from $36-$75 USD depending on the class, and double for round-trip (see more below).

JEONJU. Another perk of Korean trains is that it’s super easy to take a day trip and be back in the comfort of your own apartment by the end of the day. That’s what I did with Jeonju, the city famous for bibimbap! Stop in for some food and a trip to the hanok village and be back in time for dinner & drinks with your friends in your home city that night! A one-way ticket from Seoul to Jeonju is anywhere from $33-$43 USD depending on the class, and double for round-trip (see more below).

How Do You Buy Tickets?

Easy. You can book tickets using the official website or a third party website like Rail Ninja. You can also book directly from the Naver app. I highly recommend using Korail because that’s where I’ve been able to get the cheapest tickets. Just be careful around holiday seasons and long weekends because tickets do sometimes sell out! I also like Korail because it’s easy to get refunds and exchange for different tickets without losing out on money! The best part? All of this can easily be done in English!

What Kind Of Train Can I Take?

There are three basic kinds of trains in Korea. You can get tickets to take any of these trains using Korail!

KTX – This is Korea’s high speed rail. Using KTX, you can get from Seoul to Busan (one of the southern-most cities in South Korea) in less than three hours! The only con of the KTX, of course, is that it’s going to be more expensive than the other options.

ITX (Intercity Train or “Saemaeul”) – The ITX is a little slower than the KTX and makes more stops. Otherwise, it’s a pretty similar experience! When I travel to different cities in Korea, this is usually the option I pick because it’s a little less expensive!

Mugunghwa – This is the regular train option. Obviously, taking a mugunghwa train is the slowest, but it’s also the most affordable and gives you a chance to really take in the Korean countryside while you travel!

How Do I Get To The Train Station?

That depends on where you live, but most cities in Korea have a train station that’s easily accessible using the subway or bus system. Once you’re there, there should be an arrivals and departures board, just like you’d see at an airport. I recommend getting to the train station about fifteen to twenty minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. Seoul Station is the major railway station in the capital, Seoul. The station is served by the Korail Intercity Lines and the commuter trains of the Seoul Metropolitan Subway.

What’s The Train Ride Experience Like?

In one word: Awesome. Growing up in the United States, I’ve had very few opportunities to travel by train. Now, I’ve taken all three types of trains I outlined above, and I can honestly say they’re all enjoyable. Korean trains are clean, comfortable, safe, and affordable, so don’t be afraid to take the train while teaching in this beautiful country!

English teacher posing on a bridge in Korea with Namsan Tower in the background

Diana Richtman, Marketing Assistant

Diana Richtman is a writer and ESL teacher living in Seoul, South Korea. Originally from Savannah, Georgia in the United States, Diana holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia in English & Women’s Studies. After receiving her TEFL certification, Diana moved to South Korea where she works at one of Creverse’s April Institutes. When Diana isn’t working, she loves exploring Korea, drinking warm cups of tea, and scaring away her friends with her karaoke performances.

28 Jan

CultureLifestyleTravelBy aclipse

What It’s Like Living In Korea

Whether You Drink or Not, There’s A Place For You

It’s no secret that Koreans love to drink. If that’s your thing, you’ll love Korea’s nightlife. If partying hard isn’t for you, but you enjoy the occasional glass of wine or beer, there’s definitely plenty of opportunities for that while living in Korea.

However, if you’re not into drinking, don’t worry. My sister, who doesn’t drink, loved Korea when she visited me because of Korean cafes, which always have a great selection of non-alcoholic drinks and pastries, even late at night! I’ve found myself in all three camps: Wanting to experience Korean nightlife to the max, wanting a chill night of drinking, and wanting to lay off alcohol. Whether you’re into drinking or not, I promise there’s something for you in Korea, and it might just be better than your options in your home country!

Fitness Is Built Into Your Lifestyle

Living in Korea pretty much guarantees an active lifestyle. Odds are if you’re living in Korea, you’ll be living in one of their cities, and that means plenty of opportunities to walk and explore! On the weekends, there’s plenty of time to go hiking because Korea is very mountainous. If you’re still looking for more physical activity, there’s no shortage of gyms and fitness groups you can join.

Convenience

I could write sonnets and entire soliloquies about this topic, but here are three main reasons why Korea is so convenient: First, online platforms like Coupang make it possible to order just about anything to your doorstep, including groceries! The country’s infrastructure means that you’re always a short distance from a bus stop or subway station, and the taxi apps are user-friendly. Have friends in another city in Korea? Easy. You can visit them every weekend if you want for cheap by using the country’s railway system. But it’s not just travel within the country that is convenient while living in Korea. International travel to and from Korea is easy and often super affordable, even on a teacher’s salary!

Independence

One of the best parts of living in South Korea is the total independence you have. Given how convenient the country is for daily life and the cost of living for a teacher, this sense of independence is empowering far more often than it is overwhelming. Living in Korea has given me a sense of ease with myself and what I’m capable of as a person, which includes living by myself, saving for the future, and traveling the world. I really believe everyone should get the chance to develop this kind of faith in themselves, and Korea is the perfect place to do it!

Rich Culture Meets the Modern World

Korea has a very specific and rich culture, and it honestly feels like a dream to get to experience it firsthand. I’ve loved getting to try new foods and drinks like kimchi jjigae and makgeolli. I’ve learned so much about Korean fashion, music, customs, and the language from my time in Korea, but the second half of this awesome culture is how modernized it is. Not only does Korea have thousands of years worth of culture and history, but it’s also extremely technologically advanced. This merging of history and the modern world is an experience like no other.

A native English language teacher and a native Korean teacher posing together in traditional hanboks.

Diana Richtman, Marketing Assistant

07 Jan

LifestyleNightlifeBy aclipse

Cool Wine Bars In Korea

I’ll admit it—I’ve recently developed a bit of an obsession with wine bars in Korea. It’s truly not my fault, there are just so many options for every palette and vibe you could want. While wine can be more expensive in Korea due to the import costs, I have found a few bars that strike the right balance of price and atmosphere. So whether it’s a cozy, chill glass of wine during a catch up with coworkers, or a deep dive into the natural wines, there is truly a spot that suits all your wine needs.

BARBOO

Located near Itaewon exit 4, BARBOO is my go-to for enjoying wine in style. Its sleek interiors and curated wine list make it perfect for a girls night or first date. What sets Bar Boo apart is its knack for offering rare and bold natural wines that are hard to find elsewhere like their White France Vermentino that I can’t get enough of. They have cute small plates to share like burrata cheese and salted truffle ice cream which complement the wine beautifully. They also have a balcony and cantilevered windows on the main floor that are open all summer long which lets you take in the view of the city. For a taste of Seoul’s effortlessly cool wine culture, Bar Boo should be at the top of your list for wine bars in Korea.

Geumnam-Vin

When I first went to Gumnam-Vin in Gangnam, I totally fell in love. The atmosphere is super moody but warm and the soft jazz they have playing was perfect. I also loved that you can order natural wine at this spot. I recommend the Contradiction Pinot Noir which has a nice note of strawberries and cherries. Geumnam-Vin is a little more on the pricey side, but for a special occasion it’s a great choice. They have an excellent food selection so this is a place where you can stay and enjoy your wine over the whole night with delicious anju (small side dishes)!

D. Other

This spot is located in the trendy Yeonam-dong neighborhood behind Hongdae, but you won’t have to pay trendy prices. Their house red and white are some of the most affordable I have found in Korea and you don’t have to sacrifice the vibe for a lower cost. They offer fun side plate snacks like buttered popcorn, chocolate cake, and frozen grapes. My friends and I love starting our night here because they place great lo fi techno music and the bartender is very friendly (and cute!) If you are in Mapo-gu, D. Other is definitely a great place to check out.

Even if you are just getting into wine, these spots are your passport to discovering all sides of Seoul’s wine culture. So, grab a glass and enjoy the journey—wine bars in Korea are waiting for you!

An English teacher enjoying a freshley made pizza at spill out, a korean craft brewery

Michelle Duquette, Marketing Assistant

30 Dec

FoodLifestyleNightlifeTravelBy aclipse

Exploring Seoul’s Trendiest Hotspot: Seongsu

I had some mixed emotions about moving to Gangnam. While Gangnam is considered one of the nicest areas in Korea, it’s a bit far from some of the places I thought I’d frequent. Some of the most popular places for tourists these days are Hongdae, Myeongdong, and Itaewon. I was a bit bummed, and decided to search around and explore what might be a bit closer. While doing some research on TikTok, I found an up and coming popular area called Seongsu, which is sometimes referred to as the “Brooklyn of Seoul.” I saw it was only 20 minutes from my house. Needless to say I checked it out first thing the following morning!

Getting To Seongsu

Seongsu station is located on the green Line 2! The green line is one of the most accessible subway lines in Seoul, so this makes Seongsu very easily accessible from just about anywhere!

Pop-Up Shops

Seongsu is most famous for the vast amount of pop-up shops. Pop-up shops are when brands rent a space from a couple days to a couple months. During that time, they will offer their products coupled with different/limited edition products, activities, and freebies! These pop-ups can be a little difficult to find, but there are plenty of Instagram pages that tell you what, when, and where certain pop-ups are! While the details are in Korean, the translation feature on Instagram is extremely helpful! Three of my favorites on Instagram are

@popga_official, @popupmate, and @pops.official_

TIP: Be prepared to wait if you want to go to a popular pop-up. I recommend looking to see if you can make a reservation through NAVER so you won’t be stuck outside.

Cafes And Restaurants

The beauty of Seongsu is that you can find something new everyday. Pop-ups are super fun, but there are many different flagship stores and small businesses in Seongsu! On top of that, there are a ton of different cafes and restaurants.

One of the most famous foods in Seongsu is 소금빵 (Sogeum Bbang)! Sogeum Bbang, or salt bread, is one of the BEST bakery items I have tried in Seoul! The most famous salt bread place is in Seongsu! Check out this TikTok talking about it here.

TIP: Come to Seongsu on the WEEKDAYS! The weekends can be very crowded, so the streets and stores can get packed.

More Shopping

You can find anything in Seongsu! Key rings, clothes, socks, bags, houseware, home decor, stuffed animals, ANYTHING! Since Seongsu is extremely trendy and becoming more popular, be prepared to spend a decent amount of money if you are actually looking to buy. Of course, you can window shop and still find some great bargains in the neighborhood shops. Here are just some of the different flagship stores I went to below!

Seoul Forest

Seongsu is one of my favorite places in Seoul to spend my time. Whether I’m window shopping for myself or cafe hopping with a friend, Seongsu is always a reliable place to spend my time. It’s even right next to Seoul Forest, where you can take a walk in nature and has even more great food! Seongsu is a fun, eclectic place with tons of energy which you definitely need to check out when in Korea!

Gabriel White, Marketing Assistant

13 Dec

CultureLifestyleBy aclipse

The Holiday Season In Korea: A Guide To Festive Winter Activities

The holiday season in Korea is one of my favorite times of year. Christmas and New Years is always a reason to celebrate, and Korea offers no shortage of sights to see and festivities to enjoy with your Creverse coworkers and friends. In this blog post, I’ll walk you through some of my favorite activities to do during December and January to give those holiday warm and fuzzies. Bundle up and let’s dive into the holiday magic!

Hit the Slopes Near Seoul

Even as a beginner skier, there’s nothing like being outside to enjoy the winter weather and get active. I went to Vivaldi Ski Park last year with my coworkers who range from beginners like me to experienced snowboarders, and there was something for everyone. The most convenient way to reach Vivaldi Park is via shuttle bus services that depart from popular areas like Myeongdong or Hongdae. These buses run daily during the ski season and gave us a direct route to and from the resort. Our skiing pass for the day was about 73,000 won (@ $50 USD), and you can bring your own gear or rent everything you need on site. Vivaldi is a perfect day trip for anyone looking to enjoy Korea’s mountain ranges and the natural beauty of the country.

The Christmas Tree at Lotte Mall

The Lotte Christmas Market at Lotte Mall in Jamsil is another one of my favorite things to do in the holiday season. The mall and the area around it transforms into a winter wonderland. It features an incredible Christmas tree surrounded by festive attractions like a merry-go-round, and even an ice rink sponsored by Chanel. As I strolled through the market, I enjoyed the food booths and decided to get some mulled wine to add a little spice to the atmosphere. The Christmas lights and the carols playing over the speakers truly made me feel like I was going to have my “Love Actually” moment! The market runs from November 20, 2024, to January 5, 2025.

Visit Gwanghwamun Market’s Holiday Village

I plan to attend this market on Christmas eve this year with my boyfriend. We plan to take pictures with Santa Claus and shop at the artisanal craft booths for stocking stuffers. The market is one of the bigger European-style Christmas markets in Seoul and features a large selection of vendors who bring their handicrafts and homemade products. Supporting local businesses for the holiday season is always a great choice, so I can’t wait to check it out! I heard they serve hotteok, a hot and sweet Korean pancake, so I will definitely be on the lookout for this treat.

Creverse White Elephant

This year our branch manager decided it would be a fun idea to host a white elephant gift exchange to get everyone into the holiday spirit. We made a reasonable spending limit and decided that the gifts should all be household or useful items that anyone could enjoy. While our branch manager is super sweet for coming up with the idea, I think that any teacher in Korea could organize this at their own school or among a group of friends . I also recommend going to a Noraebang to sing Christmas carols, which is something my friends and I do every holiday season! It’s a great way to bring some of the holiday spirit from home to Korea!

Outside of these events around Korea, I recommend writing cards to loved ones at home, and make time to watch your favorite holiday movies. These small, but simple, actions can make a big difference when it comes to any feelings of homesickness during the holidays. Any way that helps me feel more in tune with not only my Korean community, but also my Canadian community, is a win-win. I hope that this guide gives you some inspiration on how to celebrate the holiday season in Korea with maximum cheer!

Michelle Duquette, Marketing Assistant

25 Nov

FoodLifestyleBy aclipse

Drinking Craft Beer In Korea

I will be the first to admit that I am a huge fan of craft beer! As a beer lover, Korea has been an amazing place to eat and drink my way through, full of cozy pubs to full-scale breweries. Whether I’m unwinding with friends or checking out a new spot, the variety of beers and vibes is truly unmatched- even compared to the scene I’m used to in Toronto. In this post, I’ll take you through some of my favorite craft beer spots in Korea—from my go-to bar in Euljiro, to a cozy pizza-and-beer joint in Hongdae, and even a few breweries.

Magpie Brewing Co.

Magpie Brewing Co. in Seoul’s Euljiro area is my top recommendation! It’s my go-to bar for a relaxed, indie vibe that’s open late on weekdays. Magpie is known for their creative beers, including a flagship pale ale and seasonal brews. My favorite is The Ghost, which is a tangy sour made with coriander seed and Jeju tangerine peel. If you get the chance, I also recommend visiting their original brewery on Jeju island which should be part of your Jeju vacation itinerary.

Spill Out

Spill Out is owned by three Americans who are bringing a cozy, home-roots feeling to the local scene. I love this spot because I can enjoy an IPA along with their delicious, freshly made pizzas. They offer a wide selection of beers, from American pours like the Guayabera Citra Ale to more unique Korean flavors. Whether you’re looking for a night out with friends or a casual date spot, Spill Out’s flavorful menu makes it a must-visit.

Goose Island Brewhouse

This craft beer spot is located in Gangnam but offers a slice of Chicago’s beer culture in Seoul. Goose Island Brewhouse has an impressive selection of their signature beers like the Big Juicy Bear Hug IPA and their Full Pocket Pilsner which are brewed on-site. My favorite thing on tap is their award-winning Mango Pang Pang. I recommend ordering the wings along with your beer because they are some of the best and biggest wings I’ve had in Korea!

Budnamu Brewery

This brewery was founded in Gangneung in 2015. Budnamu is in Gangneung’s oldest makgeolli distillery which gives a really cool atmosphere and makes for a fun evening of trying out different drinks. I went to this brewery during my summer vacation and loved that they had a huge outdoor seating area so that we could eat and drink alongside flowers, trees, and a few local cats that stopped by to visit! Many of Budnamu’s beers use signature local ingredients such as chrysanthemum, pine, and rice. Another cool feature of Budnamu is that they have big glass windows into the brew rooms so you can watch the distilling process while you eat and drink.

Craftworks Taphouse

Craftworks is located in Itaewon and is a cornerstone of Seoul’s craft beer scene. Craftworks is known for their creative beers named after iconic Korean landmarks, like the Hallasan Hefeweizen and Jirisan IPA. I prefer the Jirisan because it’s a bit lighter and drier, but everything I have tried so far on their menu is good! They even have a sampler flight so you can try multiple beers. Craftworks offers a relaxed atmosphere with a rotating tap list so there’s always something new to try. If you’re looking for some hair-of-the-dog on a weekend, Craftworks is a great place to checkout because they offer five types of eggs benedict. I go here for Sunday brunch and never regret it!

Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or just starting to explore craft brews, I think that any of these spots are the perfect entry into the Korean scene. So grab a pint and enjoy everything that Korea’s craft beer community has to offer!

English teacher, Michelle Duquette at Chungdahm Learning

Michelle Duquette, Marketing Assistant

16 Nov

LifestyleTeachingBy aclipse

Building Connections As An i-Garten Teacher

Imagine a classroom filled with curious young minds, eager to explore the world of English. As an i-Garten teacher, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of early language learning. i-Garten, a program created by Creverse, is dedicated to providing a strong foundation in English for children aged 5-7. In this post, I’ll share my experiences building connections with my students and colleagues, as well as a glimpse into my daily routine as an i-Garten teacher.

Building Connections: A Supportive Community

i-Garten has been a wonderful place to build connections, thanks in large part to the school’s emphasis on fostering a supportive community. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed and supported by both the staff and my fellow teachers.

One of the highlights of my experience has been the opportunity to connect with other new teachers. Arriving in Korea at the same time as four others, we formed a strong bond through shared experiences and mutual support. i-Garten facilitated this connection by organizing early meet-and-greets, shopping trips, and group outings. These initiatives helped us feel at home and eased the transition into our new lives in Korea as i-Garten teachers.

One of my favorite memories is a night out with my new friends. We went to a lively pocha, a traditional Korean bar with cheap drinks and snacks, where we shared drinks, played games, and laughed until my stomach hurt. We even met up with other i-Garten and Chungdam teachers, making the night even more special. Later, we headed to a noraebang and sang our hearts out until late in the night. It was so much fun to let loose and be silly with my new friends. I’m so grateful for these amazing people who have become like family to me. Beyond the initial onboarding, i-Garten continued to prioritize community building through regular social events and team-building activities. These opportunities have allowed me to forge lasting friendships with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, creating a strong sense of camaraderie and support.

A Day In the Life Of An i-Garten Teacher

i-Garten teachers work with three age groups: 5-year-olds, 6-year-olds, and 7-year-olds, each at varying levels of English proficiency. I teach 5-year-olds who are in their first year of learning English, so the daily routine and teaching responsibilities can vary depending on the age group and the students’ needs.

Teaching Methodologies and Curriculum

The i-Garten curriculum is based on curriculum that was developed in-house at mother company Creverse. The workbook I currently use with my students is called i-spring, which focuses on phonics and helps children develop an understanding of letters, their corresponding sounds, as well as early reading and writing skills. The curriculum is designed to engage young learners and provide a strong foundation for their English education.

Morning Routine

I typically arrive at school between 8:30 and 8:40 am to prepare the classroom for the day. My morning routine includes tasks such as arranging the desks, turning on the computer, air conditioning, and air purifier, setting up the shoe/slipper rack, and reviewing the lesson plans for the day.

While teachers are required to be clocked in by 8:55 am, I prefer to arrive a little earlier, especially since some children arrive before the official start time. This allows me to settle in before the school day begins.

The students begin arriving shortly after 8:55 am, and once they are in the classroom, the time before the first class starts is spent helping them unpack their things, collect their workbooks, change their shoes, and settle into the day. The last ten minutes before the first bell are dedicated to reviewing weekly expressions — a set of four key phrases that teach important facts or concepts related to topics such as safety, space, or social behavior.

Daily Teaching Schedule

Each i-Garten teacher is assigned to one homeroom class, where they teach core subjects for most of the day. I teach the 5-year-olds. The school day consists of six 35-minute classes, with a 5-minute break between each. After the first four lessons, there is a one-hour lunch break.

During lunch, teachers stay with the students and eat together. The first 30 minutes are spent eating and cleaning up, while the remaining 30 minutes are devoted to activities such as movie time, coloring, playroom time, or “Reading Buddies.” During “Reading Buddies,” 7-year-olds read to 5-year-olds in the library — a special activity designed to build connections between the age groups.

In terms of class structure, teachers typically share responsibilities within their age groups. While I am the homeroom teacher and lead most of the lessons, I work alongside a Korean co-teacher. As the English teacher, I’m responsible for the academic side of things, while my co-teacher helps with classroom management, discipline, and bridging the language gap when needed.

After-School Program and Prep Time

Once the 5-year-olds leave at 2:20 pm, I teach an after-school program called Little Honors for 8-year-olds. This program runs from 2:30 pm until 4:00 or 4:30 pm, depending on the day.

After the after-school program, I have prep time until 5:30. This time is dedicated to planning lessons for upcoming weeks, printing worksheets, preparing materials for the next day, and resetting the classroom for the following day’s lessons.

After Work Hours

After the workday ends, I love to explore the city, go shopping, or try new foods with my friends. There’s so much to discover here, from historical landmarks to beautiful parks and vibrant urban life. I live near a river with a lovely park, which is the perfect spot to relax when the weather is nice. There’s also an Olive Young right across from the school, and since I’m a big fan of skincare, I enjoy stopping by. But Korea has so much more to offer than just skincare—it’s exciting to check out the fashion, stationary stores, and self-service 24 hour ice cream stores! As for food, the variety of Korean cuisine is amazing. So far, my favorites are Cheese Dalkgalbi (spicy chicken) and Jajangmyeon (black bean noodles), though I’m still eager to try even more dishes! And if you ever visit Korea, you’ll have the chance to experience it all too!

My experience as an i-Garten teacher has been nothing short of transformative. From building strong connections with colleagues and students to navigating a rewarding daily routine, every aspect of this job has contributed to my growth, both personally and professionally. The supportive community at i-Garten has made me feel right at home, while the opportunity to teach and engage with young learners has deepened my passion for education. Beyond the classroom, Korea offers endless opportunities to explore, try new things, and make unforgettable memories, adding another layer of excitement to my journey. If you’re considering a teaching adventure abroad, I highly recommend i-Garten for its nurturing environment, dynamic community, and the chance to make a real impact on young minds. The experience is one I’ll cherish for years to come!

Want more? Here’s a video introduction of the i-Garten program!

Native English language teacher in South Korea working at i-Garten English Elementary school

Hope Zucco, i-Garten Teacher

Hope is a graphic designer turned English teacher who traded the quiet life of small-town Baldwinsville, New York for the vibrant culture of South Korea. With a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design and a minor in Marketing, she embarked on a new adventure to teach English in 2024. Her lifelong passion for languages and fascination with Korean culture led her to this exciting opportunity. Since her arrival in South Korea, Hope has not only formed strong bonds with her students and colleagues but has also deepened her love for language learning. Her experiences as an English teacher have inspired her to continue exploring new cultures and languages.

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Building Connections: A Supportive Community

A Day In the Life Of An i-Garten Teacher

Teaching Methodologies and Curriculum

Morning Routine

Daily Teaching Schedule

After-School Program and Prep Time

After Work Hours

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