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

Buy lots of condoms. *Shrugs* Someone had to give you the Sailor's answer.

Pointing is considered assault. Assaults at night are aggravated assault. Sometimes panhandlers come up and shake your hand...don’t. They won’t let go until you give them money. Don’t hit them. You’ll get hauled in. Begging is a profession there

Stay out of the soju tents.

Where are you going specifically?

Go out and see the country. Take tours, try different foods, and try to learn a bit about the culture.
When I was at Humphreys, the battalion chapin would occasionally set up day trips for single soldiers.
Also, if you like amusement parks, you might want to check out Lotte World.

I served 2 tours in korea, both tours we're good, by now the country probably has improved from the time I was there, 1980-1981, 1983-1984, just remember that you're there to represent our country, and your going to be close to the DMZ, so be ready for the freezing cold weather and hot humid weather and the rainy season, you will be given further instructions of what you can do and what not to do, good luck, by the way the food there is pretty good

Have fun.... don’t get married!

just take it slow, find a buddy thats been there a least a year and kind of hook up ask questions and when you get your leave dont let all that mess sucker you into losing your monies American money is much more then Korean Just go slow you will be fine. enjoy but listen those women know how to charm a GI do not have sex no matter what without a condom and dont let any one of them convince you the rubber broke and you are going to be a father and must marry her this is a big trick with them, I cant tell you enough stay out of dark areas when walking in towns. Where are you going? Humphreys,Yongsan, or Camp Walke?

My advice would be to see the country, make friends with the KATUSA's and some of the locals. Try to learn enough Korean to get around off base. Stay away from local bars and clubs right outside of the gate (too many buy me drinky girls and too many fights). Explore the base that you get stationed on. There are many things to do on base (gym, rec center, movie theater, enlisted club). Try to stay away from the slot machines. Try as much Korean food as you can but stay away from questionable restaurants. Go to the beach, climb the mountains. Really, there is too much to mention.

Basically, I'm saying don't stay in your room the entire time you're there! Get out and explore!

When I was there 90-91 I did a lot of stuff there went the Seoul Zoo. Went on a hike with a whole bunch guys from my unit and we met monks way up the mountain they were so friendly. Do not be pressured into drinking at the bar with others. You will save so much money. The food is amazing Yakimandu, Mandy soup, Ramen and Bulgogi. The culture is so amazing. I learned how to speak Korean from the Katusa. Good luck