Initial Thoughts and Observations - Sangnam-dong

In South Korea, each si (city) is divided into gu (districts) which are then divided into dong (neighborhoods).  My neighborhood is called Sangnam-dong.  It is located in the center of Changwon and I don't think I could be any more happy with my location.  If I want or need anything and it is available in Changwon, I can most likely get it via walking or taking a short bus ride.

I have repeatedly said that Sangnam-dong is not quite Las Vegas and not quite Times Square, but there are some similarities to the two American locations.  This area, along with Jungang-dong, is the nightlife center of Changwon.  As everyone is getting out of work and the sun is setting, the streets of Sangnam-dong fill with cars, and people litter the sidewalks, bars, noraebangs (karaoke rooms), restaurants, and cafes.  Also crowding the sidewalks are street vendors selling cheap food/snacks and other items such as jewelry, flowers, etc.  The overabundance of neon signs on almost every building light up the area advertising what is inside and what floor it can be found on.  If you venture onto an elevator at night, you are likely to see "hooker cards" advertising scantly clad Korean girls who will provide "company" for a price.  On one occasion, I did share an elevator ride with a Korean man who grabbed a card on his way out the door!  These activities last well into the night.  Even on a Tuesday night, I am no longer surprised to see groups of drunk Koreans stumble along the sidewalks after a fun night out.

 My Building at Night

 Sangnam-dong at Night

 Sangnam-dong at Night

Playboy has a presence in Sangnam-dong.

 Street Vendor Selling "Fishy" Snacks

Hooker Cards in My Building's Elevator

If there is a downside to Sangnam-dong, it is that the neighborhood can be a little boring in the morning and early afternoon on most days.  For example, many of the restaurants and bars do not open until late afternoon or early evening.  The exception to this is on days that end in a 4 or 9.  These days are "market days" in Sangnam-dong.  At 9:00 A.M, many vendors will start setting up their areas to sell produce, fresh seafood, Korean snacks, and even inedible goods such as clothing.  Even better, the main location for the market is right at the end of my block so I don't have to go far to partake!  Just the other day, I bought a bag of small oranges (about 20-25) and a bag of kiwis (about 15-16) for a grand total of 6,000 won (just under $6)!

 Sangnam-dong During the Day

Sangnam-dong During the Day

One of my biggest worries coming to Korea was the location of my housing.  I had nightmares of being on the outskirts of town with nothing going on in the immediate vicinity.  Thankfully, these fears were unfounded.  I can say with great confidence that I will be happy living in Sangnam-dong for at least the next 11 months.