Having had numerous inquiries as to the safety situation over here, I thought it might be best time that I mention it here for all to see. Before I left, many people, upon hearing that I was moving to Korea, either openly looked at me like a loon or half-heartedly tried to warn me against whatever dangers may lay ahead. I usually listened partially, before throwing in some sort of comment like, "I'm sure things'll be fine, once I get there." With that, the conversation usually turned to something more interesting.
I've been here now for almost 2 months, and I continue to receive emails concerning my welfare. I know all the news ever report on at home, with respect to pretty much anything foreign, is the destruction/terrorism/nuclear this and that, etc....etc....etc. Example: Philippines. The media makes it appear terrorist infested. Meanwhile, my life was completely mundane in most senses and I walked around with no safety issues 99.9% of the time. Anyone that heard from me, or was with me for those 2 years I was there can attest to that.
With that said, what about Korea? Although I do (sincerely) appreciate knowing that many people care enough to ask me how things are and seem worried about me, I wish I could somehow filter out every other thing that the media says about Korea, back home. That or add the other half that seems to be non-existant. Yes, there are tensions between the North and the South, but they are mostly paper tensions and between politicians. Is it obvious at all, though, when walking around doing every day things? No. Do I receive negative feedback from the nationals, as I am a white foreigner living in their land? No. Would I even know there are problems if I didn't pick up a newspaper or see the news? Probably not. What I'm trying to say in the nicest way possible, is that yet again, the media has misrepresented things just SLIGHTLY. They never talk about the fact that people here are extremely hard working. What about the fact that most people seem to go out of their way to try and help me communicate? It doesn't always work, but that's another story. Then there's the beautiful scenery and artwork. Why aren't the better sides of the culture ever written about at home?

So....if I sound a bit bitchy, sorry. I'm not angry with any of you. Like I said....at least you care enough to ask about things. Just understand though...I'm fine. I really am. If I weren't I'd be home.