Kaphaem in Korea: The First Week

I have been in Korea for a week now and it has definitely had its share of adventure. I have had to get used to traveling by bus, subway and taxi. All are very cheap. I can get across town for about $1.50 in a cab. I began teaching on Monday. I have 5 classes between 5 and 13 in size including ages 9-15. It has been fun and relatively easy. The kids are curious about my beard, my blue eyes and whether or not I have a girlfriend.

Last week, I had to get a medical examination at the hospital for my Alien Residency Card (This allows me to get services like a cell phone, Internet, etc...). I have never had such a crazy experience at a hospital. As soon as I walked in I had a gentleman in a suit taking me to the proper area. He then escorted me to every step along the way, holding my bag and coat whenever I had to write or be examined. Whenever a person was not at their station, like radiology, he would run around and find the guy. After they drew some blood, with a syringe mind you, they gave me a wad of cloth to stop any bleeding just like in the States. However, they didn't give me a bandage, so I had to hold it on myself. We rushed up to dental and they sat me right down in a chair. They took the wad of cloth to throw away and began examining my teeth. It didn't take long for them to realize that I hadn't stopped bleeding from having my blood drawn yet as it was running down my arm. It had only been like 3 minutes and I had been running. It was pretty funny. Everything was so quick and efficient.

Anyway's, I included some pictures I took from the hospital. It is up on a mountain-side and has a tremendous view. Things are going very well and I am becoming more acclimated to life in Korea. Thank you all for your prayers and know that you are all in mine. You can call me at 920-964-1880. My Internet is not up fully yet, but just leave a voicemail and I will get back to you (usually between 6 and 10pm CST).