From May 2014 to December 2014, I had the opportunity to live and work in Okpo-dong, a coastal district in Geoje Island, South Korea. My company in Malaysia sent me there for a project at the shipyard, and during those seven months I experienced a unique mix of hard work, cultural discovery, and everyday life in a vibrant port town.
Arrival in Okpo-dong
When I first arrived in Okpo-dong, I immediately noticed how the town revolved around the shipbuilding industry. The streets were filled with workers from different countries, all coming to contribute their skills to the massive shipbuilding projects. I was assigned to work at the Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) yard, one of the largest shipyards in the world.
My accommodation was at Bokwang, which became my home for nearly seven months. It was simple but comfortable, and conveniently located near the areas where many shipyard workers lived. The neighborhood had everything we needed—restaurants, small shops, and easy transportation to the shipyard.
Working at SHI Yard
Every morning I would travel to the SHI yard. The shipyard was enormous, filled with giant cranes, huge steel structures, and ships under construction. Working there was both challenging and exciting. Seeing the scale of the operations and the teamwork involved in building such massive vessels was truly impressive.
Workers came from many countries—Malaysia, the Philippines, India, and local Korean staff. Despite the different languages and cultures, we all shared the same goal: to complete our work safely and efficiently.
Everyday Life in Okpo-dong
Outside of work, life in Okpo-dong was surprisingly lively. The town had a welcoming atmosphere, especially for foreign workers. After work, many of us would explore the streets, eat at local restaurants, or relax with friends.
The food was one of the highlights. Korean dishes like kimchi, barbecue, and hot soups were everywhere. Small eateries stayed open late, serving workers coming back from long shifts.
Convenience stores were also common, and they became part of daily life—whether buying snacks, drinks, or quick meals.
Parks and Relaxation
One of my favorite places to visit during my free time was Okpo Great Victory Commemorative Park. The park sits on a hill overlooking the sea and the harbor. From there, you can see beautiful ocean views and the surrounding parts of Geoje Island.
The park is dedicated to Admiral Yi Sun-sin and the historic naval victory in the area. But for many visitors and workers like me, it was simply a peaceful place to relax after a busy work week.
There are walking paths, statues, and open spaces where people come to exercise, enjoy the view, or spend time with family.
Livelihood and Community
Okpo-dong's livelihood is closely connected to shipbuilding. Businesses in the area—from restaurants to grocery stores—depend heavily on the workers from the shipyards. Because of this, the town is very international compared to many other Korean towns.
It was common to hear different languages on the streets. Many local businesses even adapted to foreign workers by offering different types of food and services.
Memories of My Time There
Living in Okpo-dong for almost seven months gave me many memories. It was not only about work but also about experiencing a new culture and meeting people from around the world.
The routine of going to the shipyard, eating with colleagues, walking around the town, and occasionally visiting the park became part of everyday life. Even though the work was demanding, the experience helped me grow both professionally and personally.
Looking Back
When my assignment ended in December 2014, leaving Okpo-dong felt a bit emotional. After spending months there, the town had become familiar and comfortable.
Today, when I look back at that time, I remember the hardworking atmosphere of the shipyard, the friendly local community, and the peaceful views from the park. My stay in Okpo-dong was a short chapter in my life, but it was definitely a meaningful and unforgettable one.
No comments:
Post a Comment