Today: Seoul

After a week at Ansan College, we are settling into a groove. Some of us are enjoying Soju and Makkoli each night (and morning), while others are having their fun a bit less conspicuously. As best I know, we have all settled into a nice groove.

Two nights ago, I spent time with my friends from my GSI:A morning class. We had dinner at the CRAZY CHICKEN, and enjoyed boneless chicken much like what you could find in America. It was very good, and I felt very much at home. We then visited the singing room. I am really impressed by how well Korean people can sing. It's a fun social activity here, and I've yet to see even a hint of embarrassment by anyone about performing in public.

The next night, I went to dinner with a large group of 20-25, and then split up into smaller groups to explore the neighborhood. I went with my 'A' buddy group (Smart Group) to another singing room and later to play "pocket pool". The "pocket" distinction is important because you will quickly notice that most tables here do not have pockets. There is a 4 ball variation of the game that is popular here, which I know nothing about ... yet. However, most pool halls do have at least one pocket table.

I am very happy that people here are being thoughtful about making plans with me. I have been to the singing room three times in seven days, and I don't think that's a coincidence. I am happy that the warm welcome has lasted an entire week, and I really hope that I am not wearing them out!

I have also discovered a page where the students are posting pictures of us. This might be very handy since there is some reluctance among our group to share.

http://club.cyworld.com/ClubV1/Home.cy/54261397

Maybe there will be more pictures added today, because we are going to Seoul. I'm hoping my broken camera can continue working so I can take many pictures of Doesku Palace, Namdaemun Market, and the many interesting places along the way. I've also sent an invitation to a Korean student at Lakeland. I am interested to see how the students will get along with her. If she can make it, she will have an excellent time.

Get ready for pictures!