This Korean Life

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Two long time friends in Ulsan, South Korea discuss life, family, work, and other topics with a variety of guests.

This Korean Life


    • May 11, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • monthly NEW EPISODES
    • 1h 44m AVG DURATION
    • 137 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from This Korean Life

    TKL #131

    Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2025 118:56


    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2025 65:59


    Episode Notes In this thrilling episode of This Korean Life, we sit down with Oliver Harris, a celebrated novelist with stories that span both the page and the pavement. Fresh off his surreal journey to North Korea, Oliver recounts the once-in-a-lifetime experience of running the Pyongyang International Marathon — from entering the stadium in front of 100,000 spectators to pounding the pavement through the heart of one of the world's most secretive cities.

    KOTESOL 101: How to Join, Network & Grow as a Teacher

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2025 120:33


    TKL #128 Faith & Community: Understanding Korea's Religious Landscape

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2025 77:16


    Episode Notes Get ready for an insightful and thought-provoking episode of This Korean Life!

    TKL #127 From China to Korea: Dean's Journey Through Teaching, Gaming, and Growth

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2025 133:19


    Episode Notes Get ready for an insightful and inspiring episode of This Korean Life!

    Life in Busan: Radio, Family, Hockey, and Movember with Andrew Murphy

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2025 156:32


    Episode Notes Get ready for an exciting episode of This Korean Life! This episode, we're joined by Andrew Murphy, an Eastern Canadian with a big heart and an even bigger personality, who has made Busan his home for nearly two decades. Andrew is a father of two boys, a dynamic radio personality, a respected university teacher, a passionate hockey player, and a dedicated advocate for men's health. For over a decade, Andrew has participated in the Movember fundraiser, raising awareness and funds for important causes, all while balancing his many roles.

    TKL#125 From Books to Bonds: How Joy Kim is Building Community in Ulsan

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2025 69:24


    Episode Notes Welcome to This Korean Life, where we bring you inspiring stories from people who are making a difference in South Korea. In this episode, we're excited to introduce Joy Kim, the passionate owner of Guredo Cheak, a charming independent bookstore just a 5-minute walk from the stunning Taehwa National Garden in Ulsan.

    Busan's New Art Hub, Arise Art Space: Niall Ruddy on Creativity and Collaboration

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 8, 2024 122:36


    Episode Notes Welcome to This Korean Life, where we uncover the stories that shape the vibrant lives of expats and creatives in South Korea. In this episode, we're excited to feature Niall Ruddy, a Northern Irish expat who has called Korea home for the past 15 years. Niall has embarked on an inspiring new venture in Busan—a creative studio with a powerful mission. This inclusive space aims to showcase the talents of both local and international artists, especially those who are often overlooked by the mainstream.

    Bands, Records, and Tours: Ali's 14-Year Story in Korea's Music Scene

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 14, 2024 103:54


    Episode Notes Check out Ali's work-------> Mountains (the band he toured Japan and Taiwan with.https://youtu.be/K99E5hQYYPA?si=IwxN96M2TIAEPxIW Emperors (his band with Toby - guest vocals from Niall Ruddy) https://emperorssk.bandcamp.com/track/marilyn-m (You can download the whole EP for free via Bandcamp in which ever format is best) Bandits (his band with Andy) https://banditssk.bandcamp.com/track/65-days-aquatic Instagram https://www.instagram.com/alihsfv Welcome to This Korean Life, where we dive deep into the extraordinary lives of people who call South Korea home. In this episode, we're thrilled to feature Ali, a British-Iranian expat with an incredible 14-year journey living in Korea.

    TKL ep #122: Family & Farewells. The Mauceri Siblings

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2024 107:01


    Episode Notes Welcome to This Korean Life, where we share the fascinating stories of those whose lives intersect with the vibrant culture of South Korea. Today, we are excited to introduce a special sibling duo, Nikolas and Violet Mauceri, American high schoolers who have spent most of their lives in South Korea. We discuss their unique experiences attending a Korean International School, where East meets West in the classroom and beyond. Hear firsthand what it's like to grow up as part of Gen Z in a dynamic, fast-paced society, and how they balance travel and technology and sports in their daily lives. Nikolas and Violet also share their insights on family life and the bittersweet journey of preparing to move back to the U.S.A. after years of calling Korea home. Their reflections on cultural adaptation, maintaining connections, and looking towards the future are sure to resonate with listeners of all ages. Whether you're curious about international schooling, the digital habits of Gen Z, or the emotional journey of relocating, this episode promises to captivate and inspire. Tune in now to hear the incredible stories of Nikolas and Violet Mauceri!

    This Korean Life #121-Brian Aparicio-Rascon

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2024 126:59


    Episode Notes This week we sit down with long time Ulsan resident and local brewmaster Brian Aparicio-Rascon, and feature special guest producer Andy Bonnington. In this episode we cover Brian's journey from a small town in Tennessee all the way to the bright lights of Ulsan, South Korea. We take a trip down memory lane and discuss how Ulsan has changed over the years, the future, and delve into some of the extra curricular activities Brian has taken up during his 15 years in Korea - including music, brewing and Dungeons and dragons. Timestamps: 10:25 - Life in Tennessee 18:35 - Moving to Ulsan 44:08 - The Ulsan Music Scene 1:13:06 - Brewing Beer 1:33:42 - Dungeons and Dragons 1:59:05 - Plans for the Future this weeks links: Ulsan TTRPG Group: https://open.kakao.com/o/gSY5l7Rf - JJ's Bar: https://www.facebook.com/jjs.bar.ulsan Royal Anchor Bar: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057529184719 Seaside studios: https://www.instagram.com/sseasidestudio/ Check out our podcast host, Pinecast. Start your own podcast for free with no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-1777cf for 40% off for 4 months, and support This Korean Life.

    TKL #120 Inside Foreign Social Scenes: Olia Molia's Community Insights

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2024 99:57


    Episode Notes Welcome to This Korean Life, where we bring you the vibrant and diverse stories from the heart of South Korea. Today, we are excited to once again feature the dynamic and inspiring Olia Molia Korea, a true advocate for domestic tourism and community building in Busan. In this episode, we'll explore Olia's passion for discovering the beauty and culture within her adopted home. Olia's insights into domestic tourism will inspire you to get out of the house and explore the wonderful sights of Korea and meet some new friends along the way. Olia is a pivotal figure in Busan's expatriate community, she has created and nurtured social groups that bring people together, fostering connections and friendships that transcend borders. We'll delve into the heartwarming stories of camaraderie and support within these groups, and learn how Olia's initiatives are making Busan a more welcoming place for everyone. This episode is packed with valuable insights that you won't want to miss. Tune in now and join Olia Molia Korea for round 2 on This Korean Life!

    TKL Ep. #119 Seafood Sustainability: Insights from Mark Jeong Seok Seo of the Marine Stewardship Council

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2024 104:51


    Welcome to This Korean Life. Today, we're thrilled to feature Mark Jeong Seok Seo, a visionary in sustainable fishing and marine conservation. In this episode, Mark takes us on an enlightening journey through the world of sustainable fishing practices and the critical role of the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) in preserving our oceans. As a key figure in the MSC, Mark sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of promoting sustainable fisheries and the profound impact these efforts have on our global ecosystem. We'll explore the future of fish farming, where innovation meets sustainability, offering solutions to feed the world's growing population while protecting marine life. Mark also addresses the controversial practice of shark fin soup, discussing its environmental and ethical implications, and how awareness and advocacy are driving change. Finally, we ask Mark about his personal seafood consumption and learn how our choices can contribute to a healthier planet. Mark's insights will empower you to make informed decisions about the seafood you eat, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. Whether you're a seafood lover, an environmental enthusiast, or simply curious about the future of our oceans, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration. Tune in now and join Mark Jeong Seok Seo on a voyage towards sustainable seas!

    Heart of Hospitality: Minh Công's Tales from the Park Hyatt & Beyond

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2024 93:54


    Episode Notes Welcome to This Korean Life, where we delve into the captivating stories of individuals whose lives intertwine with the heartbeat of South Korea. Today, we have the pleasure of introducing you to Minh Công, whose journey embodies the essence of resilience, exploration, and personal growth. Join us as we step into the elegant halls of the Park Hyatt, where Minh Công is honing his craft and embracing the art of hospitality with grace and dedication. His tales offer a glimpse into the inner workings of one of Seoul's most prestigious hotels. But Minh Công's narrative extends far beyond the polished confines of luxury hospitality. As an international student in the vibrant city of Busan, he embarked on a transformative journey of self-discovery, navigating the intricacies of cultural exchange and academic pursuit with unwavering determination and an open heart. Beyond the confines of academia and career, Minh Công finds solace and inspiration in the realm of sports. With his professor, Dr. Kessler, we explore the profound impact of athletics on character development, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. Through his experiences on the field and off, Minh Công reveals the universal truths that unite us all, transcending language, culture, and background.

    From City Lights to Coastal Delights: Olia Molia's Korean Adventure

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2024 111:27


    Episode Notes Welcome to This Korean Life, your passport to the vibrant tapestry of experiences that define life in South Korea. Today, we have the pleasure of sitting down with our new friend, Olia Molia. Olia gives her thoughts and experiences on Korea's coastal gem of Busan. From the beaches of Haeundae to the locally preferred Gwangan, with mentions of the the bustling market of Jagalchi and some other hot spots. Our conversation goes beyond mere sightseeing. Together, we'll delve into the intricacies of life in Korea for foreign residents, both now and in the future. From navigating the bustling metropolis of Seoul to envisioning the ever-evolving landscape of expat life, Olia offers insights and perspectives that are as enlightening as they are engaging. So, whether you're a seasoned expat, a curious traveler, or simply someone with a love for all things Korean, this episode aims to be a window into life here. Tune in now and let the adventure begin!

    Beyond Borders: Raymond Watt's Epic Journey through Asia, Film Fandom, and ESL Teachings

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2024 95:00


    Episode Notes Episode Notes Welcome to This Korean Life episode #116. In today's episode, we are thrilled to present Raymond Watt, a storyteller extraordinaire whose adventures span various continents. Join us as we delve into Raymond's fascinating world of Asian escapades, where every corner holds a new discovery and every experience is a chapter waiting to be written. From teaching English as a second language to immersing himself in the rich cinematic tapestry of Criterion Blu-rays, Raymond's journey is as diverse as it is captivating. We explore the allure of Asian cultures, discuss the magic of cinema, and the joys of teaching in a foreign land. Whether you're a film enthusiast, an avid traveler, or simply curious about life in Korea, this episode promises to captivate and inspire. So sit back, relax, and let Raymond Watt be your entertainment for the next few hours. ThisKoreanLife #RaymondWatt #AsianAdventures #CriterionBluRays #ESLTeaching #CinematicJourney #TravelTales #CulturalExploration #SouthKorea #PodcastAdventures #FilmFandom #CinematicOdyssey #TeachingAbroad #ExpatLife #AdventureAwaits #LanguageLearning #GlobalCitizen #Wanderlust #FilmBuff #Traveler #LearningAbroad #CinematicTreasures #CulturalExchange #PodcastListeners #Storytelling #ExploreMore #LifeInKorea #CrossCulturalConnections #DiscoveriesAbroad Check out our podcast host, Pinecast. Start your own podcast for free with no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-1777cf for 40% off for 4 months, and support This Korean Life.

    From Peaks to Profits: Jack Glowacki's Thrilling Tale of Adventure, Business, and Crypto Conquests

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2024 110:44


    Episode Notes Welcome to This Korean Life, where we delve into the captivating stories of individuals navigating life's adventures in South Korea. In today's episode, we embark on an exhilarating journey with Jack Glowacki, a trailblazer in every sense of the word. From scaling the peaks of Korea's breathtaking landscapes to navigating the intricate terrain of entrepreneurship, Jack's story is one of relentless pursuit and boundless ambition. Join us as we unravel Jack's outdoor exploration, business pursuits, and cryptocurrency conquests. Discover the thrills and challenges of running a business in the dynamic landscape of Korea, and delve into the world of crypto currency as Jack shares his insights and experiences in this ever-evolving realm. Grab your headphones and get ready for an unforgettable ride as we embark on this adventure with Jack Glowacki. Tune in now and let the exploration begin! ThisKoreanLife #AdventureAwaits #Entrepreneurship #Cryptocurrency #OutdoorExploration #SeoulLife #Trailblazer #KoreaAdventures #BusinessInnovation #PeakPerformance #CryptoSuccess #Inspiration #Ambition #DreamChaser #SouthKorea #PodcastJourney #OutdoorEnthusiast #StartupLife #FinancialFreedom #MountainMastery #UrbanAdventure #KoreanDream #EntrepreneurialSpirit #Bitcoin #Ethereum #SuccessStories #PodcastListeners #GlobalCommunity #ExploreMore Check out our podcast host, Pinecast. Start your own podcast for free with no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-1777cf for 40% off for 4 months, and support This Korean Life.

    Creating Community Through Coffee and Literature: T.J. Yoo's Cafe Vision

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2024 73:38


    Scooters, Spirit, and Sickness: Daniel's Expat Chronicles #expatriateDiaries #UlsanAdventures

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2024 142:03


    Inside Zac's Writing Universe

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2024 80:16


    Suga Mama Speaks: Baking Adventures in Korea

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2023 130:28


    This Korean Life #106 Etienne's UNIST Exchange: From School to Seoul's Nightlife

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2023 106:44


    TKL# 105

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2023 81:25


    Episode Notes

    This Korean Life #104 The Korean Country Side, NYC & Niagara, Turning 60 | Jeff Young

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2023 108:35


    This Korean Life #103: Travelin', Adversity, & Adventure | Dennis Feeheley

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2023 161:05


    This Korean Life #102 | Gen Z, Travel, Sports Stadiums | Reese Mooney

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2023 90:08


    This Korean Life #101 Fatherhood, Sports, Life, and Memories of Korea featuring A.J. McNally

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2023 125:45


    This Korean Life #100 feat: EunJu Park McNally; K-art, Loved Ones, Struggle, and New Beginnings

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2023 114:11


    This Korean Life #99: Korean Start Up Culture and Business Visas feat: Hyun-Jung and Marta

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2023 74:13


    This Korean Life #98 feat Intersteps Founder Eleni Poloniataki

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2023 103:51


    # Episode Notes

    This Korean Life #97 feat: Amela and Geoffrey

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2023 145:40


    # Episode Notes

    This Korean Life #96 feat: Sticky Tacos (Sil)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2023 96:04


    # Episode Notes

    This Korean Life #95 feat Martin Karoki

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2023 95:42


    # Episode Notes

    This Korean Life #94 feat Southern Connection

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2023 76:14


    # Episode Notes

    This Korean Life #93 feat Sekki Deul

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2023 159:39


    # Episode Notes

    This Korean Life #92 feat Olivia (Bleu de Folie)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2023 96:16


    # Episode Notes

    This Korean Life #91 feat Ana Juzbasic

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2023 146:51


    # Episode Notes

    This Korean Life #90 feat Febriana

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2023 83:17


    # Episode Notes

    This Korean Life #89 feat Paul McPhail

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2023 128:26


    # Episode Notes

    This Korean Life #88 feat Dr. Dean

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2023 99:28


    # Episode Notes

    This Korean Life #87 feat Nick Park

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 5, 2023 116:56


    # Episode Notes

    This Korean Life #86 feat Vita and Jennifer

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2023 106:16


    # Episode Notes

    This Korean Life #85 feat Marcia Benedicta Peschke

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2023 105:18


    # Episode Notes

    This Korean Life #84 feat Elder Able and Elder Skarda

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 25, 2022 103:11


    # Episode Notes

    This Korean Life #83 feat Mika and Joseph

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 11, 2022 101:43


    # Episode Notes

    This Korean Life #82 feat Tae Asling

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 27, 2022 97:38


    # Episode Notes

    This Korean Life #Quality Peninsula Banter feat: Saurabh, Nate, Brian

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2022 69:48


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