What advice would you give to someone going to Korea (first duty station) who has never been out of the country before?

Pick up four books: (Go to Google / Amazon) One on the history of Korea, one on the Korean culture, a travel guide, and a pocket phrase book. After that, visit a couple of Korean restaurants in your area, introduce yourself to the owner and tell them about your upcoming assignment. I promise you, if you show that kind of interest, they will school you on not just the cuisine and culture, but help you memorize a few important words and phrases. Once in Korea, spend some time outside the gate getting to know the local people in their shops and restaurants. See if there are any charities or orphanages nearby supported by U.S. organizations. Become an off-duty volunteer. Take weekend tours around the country as if you were a tourist.

I was in Korea a long time ago. I was a young lieutenant in 5/38 Artillery, 2nd ID. I spent a bit over 1/4 of my time with the 3rd Brigade and 1/38 Inf as the artillery LnO on the DMZ. This was during the little known Second Korean Conflict (66-69) First of all, Korea then and Korea now is not the same as the US. The suggestions to get to know the culture and the people are spot on. When I was there every compound (and there were many - my battalion had three - one with HQ and a firing battery and the other two with one firing battery each. Each one had a "vil" within walking distance and each vil had at least one bar with associated professionals. The VD (yep, sameo-sameo STD) was high. Avoid those that remain and get away to the real Korea.
Don't expect it to me like the US. It's not. It's not worse; it's not better - just different. Learn to enjoy it. The suggestion to learn some of the language is excellent. Even knowing how to say "please," "thank you" and "Where's the bathroom? " goes a long way. Treat the Koreans with respect; they will respond in the same way.
The comment of one about being careful not to annoy Korean police is good advice. They don't have a Miranda rule and they can be tough.
Good luck, enjoy, and come safely home.

Pack light & do NOT take your dog!

Wear and carry warm clothing it gets very cold.

I absolutely loved Camp Casey Korea in 76-77. My advice is to learn as much of the "street Korean" as you can quickly so you can communicate - then I would say respect the people - it IS their country - and enjoy every minit. See the country at every opportunity - I was not given that opportunity and will regret it the rest of my life. RESPECT the people. Please.

I’m retiring this month and I actually spent my first 2 years in the army there in Suwon as a 17 year old 14T. I’d advise you to follow the simple rules. It was a mucho more forgiving place 21 years ago and I still went from e-4 to e-1 prior to leaving.

Where are you stationed at in Korea?

Take advantage of your time there to learn about Korean culture & history. If your local Recreation Services has any tours go on them. Especially to the DMZ Peace Village (don't ask me to spell it), it will give you a good insight why we are they. When I went way back in '77 the hour long lecture on the history of the DMZ was a real eye opener. When possible, get involved with groups where you will get to know the Koreans other than those associated with bars, etc. If you are stationed with any KATUSAs, get to know them. Many KATUSAs have college degrees. Get a good camera and explore the local area.

Have a good time - enjoy the cultural experience, stay away from the drinkie Girls and Soju

watch out for the turtle traps, never-ever go to the "turkey farm", always-always wear a condom, if you like rice with beef - call it by it's right name (Bulgogi with rice....NOT kigogo with rice) Kigogo is dog!!!!, short time be fine, stay away from long time (overnite) otherwise you will fall in love with a whore, girlfriends/wanna be wives are called YOBO's, summer time stinks, winter time is colder than you have been.....