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

Don't stay in the barracks. Get out and see the culture. Someone else said, "don't come back with a wife", very true. They are after your money and benefits, and you marry the entire family. But get out and see Korea, it's not a bad place to go, I would love to go back and visit.

Keep an open mind. Korean culture is very warm, but don't lose situational awareness. When it comes to local flavor--Bulgogi good, Kaegogi... not so much. :-} Re-read Major Bell's post, it is sage advice.

Was in Korea 82-83, enjoyed myself. I was stationed at Camp Humphreys, but it was a very rural place then. I was a PV2 and made PFC while I was there some kind of way. We didn't have Russian or Philippine "Juicy Girls" and of our "Yobo's" were Korean. I had a lot of good times there, made more than my share of mistakes, learned a lot and somehow got promoted from PV2 to PFC. I recommend that tour for anyone!!

Drink in moderation, follow the rules and when they tell you not to get involved in the black market they mean it. I served with someone who like you Korea was his first duty station and his first time out of country. He hooked up with a local bought and sold goods on the black market and ended up in Leavenworth for it. Another one, got drunk and tried to take on the MP's and got his teeth kicked in. Also the ROK police don't play.

It is not about going to the bar every time you get off base. Go see what the country has to offer.

Learn the culture and the language. Korea was my first trip outside the US and things were a little different in 1966.

Understand one thing, you are a visitor to their country. Take time before you even get there to learn a little about the country. Listen to people who have sometime in country, you'll figure out the ones to listen to for good advice. The vast majority of the people will be friendly if you are respectful and friendly yourself. Interact with people with the intent to enjoy your time and it will be a great experience.

Take all commands from.the tower. You'll be alright. The quickest way to come back an E-4 is to go as an E-5.

Dress warmly, drink in moderation and under NO circumstance DO NOT DABBLE in the black market.

Get a divorce before you go Sparks Scheels, I'll wait till after she's fucked around then get it when you get back! Not that I'm cynical or anything