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By Pete Musto, May 1, 2013 7:20 pm

Nestled in the heart of Seongnam-dong (commonly known as “Old Downtown”), above the Page 104 Coffee shop half a block north of 시게탑 (pronounced “She-Gae-Top”), resides the bar called The Royal Anchor. Inside, the bar is tended by Kim Jeong Gyoo (better known as “Mr. Kim”), the 46 year old native of Andong who owns this major pillar of the Ulsan community. It has been twenty five years since Mr. Kim came to our fair city, and on Saturday, May 11th he will host an event to celebrate the past 12 years spent creating the finest establishment and becoming the most useful person to know in all of Korea’s seventh largest city.

The day will be chock full of events starting in the afternoon at 4pm with live acoustic performances from local favorites Second Flash and The Red in the street out front. Then immediately at 7pm the festivities move up to the roof of the building where Mr. Kim will be serving warm, juicy hotdogs and hamburgers to be washed down with cold beverages. Following the feast, at 9pm the real fun begins when the karaoke machine is rolled out for the Royal Anchor’s first ever Karaoke Costume Contest. Individuals or groups of up to three will be given the opportunity to bring down the house with both their singing and their style as the winner will be selected not only based on the audience’s reaction to their choice of up to three songs, but any showmanship or costume that is put to use as well. Finally the night will come to a climax with a dance party that may never end. First prize in the karaoke contest is a night of dinner and drinking with Mr. Kim himself, and also includes a private party at his famous transvestite hostess noraebang. Don’t miss out on this chance to experience the only one of it’s kind in Ulsan and a unique aspect of Korean life you don’t normally get to see

“I want to see all my friends, old and new,” says Mr. Kim. However, while many may know the Royal Anchor from its reputation or by attending one of the many past events and parties hosted there, few people are really aware why this particular establishment is so vital to the community it serves. Almost a decade and a half ago, Mr. Kim had been the manager of a former staple of Old Downtown, McKenzie’s Bar, and at that time had grown very curious about owning a place of his own. Having travelled to Sydney, Australia, he was also very intrigued by the Western style of bar that included live performances as a major aspect of its identity.

Shortly after leaving McKenzie’s, Mr. Kim then visited England in order to, in his words, “drink Guinness every day and learn about real pub[s].” And it was in Cambridge at a bar named after the poet Yates that he met the man who would be the primary influence in his future endeavor: the bar’s elderly owner who uncannily resembled the KFC colonel and shared a warm and friendly demeanor to foreigners and locals alike. When Mr. Kim returned home, though, he was unfortunately faced with a major problem. He did not speak a word of English! And as he so deftly explains, “No English, no beer, no money, no honey!”

 Nevertheless undaunted, Mr. Kim threw caution to the wind and on May 9th, 2001 opened The Royal Anchor, a name he appropriated from another British pub near the Thames River called simply “The Anchor.” Together with Canadian native Troy McDonald, former owner of the defunct “Benchwarmers” that has since become “JJ’s,”  they created what was once one of only two foreigner bars in town. And, as Mr. Kim recalls, during that period internet availability was limited “so relationships were important. At the bar, foreigners were my English teachers.” Initially, as well, there was no stage. But Mr. Kim would not let that get in the way of his dreams and within 5 years the bar was fully equipped and hosting regular performances. And the roster of veteran acts remains impressive as more and more bands from around the peninsula, such as Busan  based groups One Drop East and Jake and The Slut, continue to make Ulsan an essential destination for live music. Also, the bar helps homesick foreigners celebrate those events they feel they miss out on by not being at home, such as a renowned annual Thanksgiving dinner, a Christmas toy   -drive for the local T-HOPE orphanage  and St. Patrick’s Day festivities supplied with plenty of Guinness.

From its inception the Royal Anchor has been a popular place for foreigners to gather and socialize, and Mr. Kim has always been eager to help people feel welcome in his country. “When I was [living] in Japan, I was a stranger and very lonely. So I wanted to make a place for foreigners in Korea. A base camp.” Willing to help with any issue someone may have, including  anything legal, financial, or work related, he expresses a strong desire to make Ulsan a great place to live. Only now, though, has Mr. Kim felt the desire to celebrate the fruit of his efforts. “First 10 years I didn’t celebrate the anniversary because it was only a baby. Now it is like a part of my body. People have gone away for some years and then come back to Ulsan, and when they saw that the Royal Anchor is still here they cry from memories. God willing, I want to keep having that happen until I die.”

For more details, please see the event’s Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/events/582134308492875/

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By Hannah Ashwin, April 18, 2013 12:04 am

W Garden is the older sister bar to Second Hotel. It is owned by the same people.

Street View of W Garden

W Garden is a great place for meeting new people. The music is usually house, tech house, basically dance music. There tends to be a mixture of engineers, teachers and locals alike who hang out in the bar.

There are lots of booths to sit in and socailise and a small area for dancing. They also serve food. The food is not that great though and can be a bit pricey. A friend recently ordered some fried potato, it was a small portion and over priced, definitely not value for money.  Might be better to go to Golden Eagles (down the street) for some food.

If you go to W Garden early in the night the atmosphere is relaxed becoming livelier as the evening progresses. Groups of friends tend to sit at tables and in booths.  If you are a lone guy then I think W garden is a good place for you to go, especially if you want to meet new people. Sit at the bar and you’ll soon find that you’ve made a few new friends.

The Gossip

A lot of foreign guys go to W Garden to meet/pick up local girls. They will sit around the bar in the hope of meeting some local girls. I have Korean female friends who know this is THE place to go to meet foreign guys and they will purposely go to this bar with the intention of chatting to some foreign guys.

A lot of engineers hang out in W garden and I know a lot of girls will go here to get hang out and get free drinks from them!!

Costs (variable):

Vodka/Gin/Mailbu (liquor) and a mixer  7,000won

Shots  7,000won

Beer  5,000-7,000won

Location:

If your back is to Lotte Hotel, cross the road towards Paris Baguette. Walk down the road that runs to the left of Paris baguette. Take your first right and walk straight. W garden is just before the end of the street on your right.

Google coordinates: 35.540086, 129.338133

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By Hannah Ashwin, April 17, 2013 11:05 pm

Beat Bar is a great place, where all kinds of people go.  It is a melting pot of teachers, engineers and locals.

Beat Bar from Outside

The bar owner Pete Beat and his colleagues are really cool and friendly. Every time you walk into the bar they all say “Hello”, it’s like being in the TV show ‘Cheers.’  There is free popcorn on the tables and at the bar too. For some entertainment there is a darts board and a pool table.

At the start of the evening the place can seem very quiet but it does get busier. After 12pm the place is usually busy with people dancing.

I find that Beat Bar has “waves” of customers, by that, I mean a lot of people will arrive and it will be busy, then after an hour or so there will be a lull until the next wave arrives.

Beat bar has the best of both worlds; lounging and dancing.  You can chat and relax, play pool or darts and dance the night away. It’s free to get in too which is always a big plus.

Music:  It usually plays a mixture of hip hop, R n B and dance music.

Costs (variable):

Vodka  and a mixer:  6000won

Beer:  5,000won

Drink Promotion:

Promotion

Location:

If you have your back to W garden, turn left, walk straight, go over the crossroads and it’s on your left. It’s in the basement.

Google coordinates: 35.539787, 129.336650

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By Hannah Ashwin, April 17, 2013 10:23 pm

Bar Bee/ Bee Bar is a Korean soju bar. This place is great for pre-drinking and hanging out. The music is mostly K Pop. Inside, Bee has booths of varying sizes.

The staff are really friendly and attentive. The menu is all in Korean but as long as you know how to say soju and cider you’ll be ok. You will be expected to order food along with your drinks as is the ‘norm’ in a typical Korean soju bar.  I usually order fried potato (a selection of smiley faces, potato waffles, chips and wedges.) Along with the fried potato you will get an array of complimentary side dishes.

This place does great soju cocktails, so don’t be afraid to ask for “dalgee soju cocktaile” (Strawberry cocktail.) It comes in two sizes; small and medium.

Update

Bar Bee has moved to the 4th floor. Still in the same building but it’s now on the 4th floor, not the 6th.

Costs (about):

13,000won for a large cocktail.

4,000won for a bottle of soju.

2,000won bottle of cider.

8,000won fried potatoes.

Location

If you have your back to W Garden, look to the right and look up and you will see Bee.

It is on the 6^th floor (I think) of the building diagonally opposite W garden.

Please see the virtual tourist map.

Google coordinates: 35.540488, 129.338310

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By Hannah Ashwin, April 17, 2013 9:40 pm

Second Hotel is a nightclub. It opens at about 10.30pm and it closes at about 6am.

Inside second hotel

Second Hotel has been open for a year. In fact it is their first year Birthday Party this Saturday. (April 20^th 2013.)

Second Hotel plays a mixture of house, house tech, and popular Korean style dance party and on occasion  RnB music. The atmosphere is electric. It is always busy and it is a great place to dance the night/early hours of the morning away.

 The Gossip

This place is crazy. The bass is loud and the crowd loves to go wild. Don’t go here if you are a wall flower, you will hate it. This place is great if you really want to let loose and dance the night away.

When I say crazy I mean, as a woman the guys will dance with you and their hands are everywhere, don’t go in there if you like your space or if you don’t like strangers touching you. I have heard of girls having their breasts  groped…actually my friend had hers groped and she drop kicked the guy in the groin!

When you wake up in the morning you can expect to feel extremely happy, although somewhat smelly and deaf!!

Personally I LOVE this place, yes you have to bat the boys hands away but that’s a small price to pay for a great clubbing experience.  I think Second Hotel has a fantastic atmosphere and  ALWAYS delivers an outstanding night out.

Costs (can change) usually are:

Fridays:  10,000won entrance fee with a voucher for a cafri beer.

Saturdays:  15,000won entrance fee with a voucher for a cafri beer

Drinks Prices:  

10,000won for a vodka and mixer, cafri etc.

They also offer tables…for a price:

139,000won gets you a bottle of Vodka Absolute or liquor of your choice and unlimited mixers (soda water)

This sounds a lot but when you split the cost between 4… 35,000won each isn’t a bad price.

How to get there.

It is in Samsandong, near Trevi.

Just before Trevi on the opposite side of the road you will see a red tent and a queue of people.

Pay the guy at the tent, get a stamp and your free Cafri beer voucher. (it looks like a coat cloakroom voucher)

Go in the lift to the 5th floor.

Put your stuff in a locker-you won’t be needing it, then go and dance till dawn!

Outside second hotel

https://www.facebook.com/SecondHotel

Google 35.538141, 129.336811

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By Carl Schreep, December 31, 2012 12:26 am

JJ’s is the newest spot for foreigners in Seongnam-dong. As many of our readers may know, Benchwarmers, the foreigner-owned sports bar, closed its doors this October. But owner Patrick Robbins, not wanting to let the flame burn out, rallied and created JJ’s, a new bar built on the Benchwarmers legacy. As Patrick tells the story, he learned a lot from running Benchwarmers. He saw were the successes were, where the shortcomings were, and took some steps to improve them. This process of reinvention gave us JJ’s, which promises to be a choice spot for foreigners to congregate and celebrate.

Photo by Matt Smith

JJ’s has a classy interior. There is a good sense of flow and a good use of space to maximize efficiency. The bar is large with plenty of elbow room, the walls are decorated with black-and-which portraits of musicians (all of whose first or last names begin with “J” for thematic consistency), the lighting is clear without being too bright or too dank, and the broken foosball table has been traded in for billiards. The music is kept at a reasonable volume so you can enjoy the tunes and still hold a conversation without shouting. The nice new interior is augmented by the fact that JJ’s feels cleaner. Benchwarmers may have been fun, but cleanliness was a recurring problem. Better circulation reduces the smoke in the air (and every Friday –Ladies Night– the bar is smoke-free until midnight). The chairs, tables, bar, and floor are cleaner. And importantly, the bathroom has had a major overhaul.

Photo by Matt Smith

The drink offerings cover all the bases. Happy hour (Monday-Friday, 10 pm to 11 pm) offers discount shots on all liquors beginning with ‘J’. You can enjoy a beer or pound shots of Jager, whichever suits your fancy. The menu has standard pub fare. You can munch on a basket of fries or chicken tenders, more unique options include the margherita pizza, JJ’s Favorite Sandwich, and poutine has made a comeback.Well-situated for regular drinking, JJ’s is also set up for special events. Twice a month is trivia night. There’s a screen for projecting and a stage setup for a band to play.

Photo by Matt Smith

The history of JJ’s will inevitably invite endless comparison with Benchwarmers, but JJ’s doesn’t amount to just Benchwarmers 2 (Electric Boogaloo). Patrick has his own vision for the directions he wants the bar to go. As he puts it, JJ’s is all-inclusive. JJ’s goal is to be open and welcoming to as many people as possible. For many foreigners who cycle in and out of Ulsan, finding their bearings in a strange city, it helps to have a hub where foreigners meet, great, eat, and drink. For English speakers going out in Seongnam-dong, JJ’s is likely to become a staple meetingplace.

How to find JJ’s

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By admin, December 23, 2012 5:02 am

By Deirdre Madden

For those unfamiliar with the discography of the Rolling Stones, the name “Sticky Fingers” might sound like a bawdy house, but one glimpse at the trademark tongue logo, and you’ll know you’re in a rock’n'roll bar. And if that doesn’t tip you off, there’s a stage set with a drum kit and guitars, ready for a show at a moment’s notice, in the back corner.

Photos by Jason Dukach

Sticky Fingers is the creation of Cheong Sil Park, drummer for the former Karaoke Dokey band. Sil, as his friends know him, realized that there were very few venues for live music in Ulsan, and none at all in Samsandong, so he decided to open a bar for that very purpose.

Photos by Jason Dukach

The bar is open and airy, with large windows, which will open up onto the Samsan street scene in time for the warmer weather.  The walls are decorated with album covers from great bands, and there’s both a foosball table and electronic darts for non-musical entertainment. Two big, comfy booths provide seating for bigger groups by the windows, or you can choose smaller tables or bar stools closer to the band.

While live music is definitely a focus for this pub, it’s not the only reason to go there. Besides Cass, there’s also Red Rock and Paulaner on tap, and the kitchen serves up a tasty homemade burger with a side of fries for 9,000 won. There’s even a veggie burger on offer – also homemade.

Every other Sunday, Sticky Fingers hosts a movie day, starting at 4pm (the other weeks Sil takes a much-deserved day off). There’s also a Pub Quiz night on Mondays, with the 1,000 won cover going to charity, and an open mic night every Wednesday.

Photos by Jason Dukach

Sticky Fingers is open 7 days a week (except every other Sunday). Weekdays 6pm-3am, Weekends 6pm-4am.

And the best part is? No K-Pop allowed! It’s a strictly Gangnam-Style-free zone!

Sticky Fingers is on the second floor,  next door to Gorilla Bar and near the Holiday Nightclub (Holiday Night for taxis).

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By Keenan McLean Webb, November 20, 2012 11:51 pm

By Keenan Webb

To say that Manila Town is just a bar is an understatement. I’ll admit that this writer has a certain bias in his opinion, but underneath the rough surface of this hidden Shinae hotspot there is a whole lot of heart.

Located just a little over a block west of Shigaetop on the second floor, left-hand side, is Manila Town. A newly established bar as of last December. The owner, Maria, created the venue as a place for the Filipino community to meet, hold events, and call home. Since opening many other waegukins and even Koreans have felt its pull. Maria is friends with the former owner and operator of Bar Somewhere, a previous nightlife hot spot in Seongnamdong, that also boasted its Filipino heritage. Having been the prior location of what is now Royal Anchor’s Open Mic night, Bar Somewhere had plenty of musical equipment to sell to Maria including a karaoke machine, before closing last year. Open from 7 pm to 1 am on weekdays and 5 pm to 5 am on weekends; there’s bound to be live music playing or someone singing karaoke. On the 2^nd and last Friday night of every month there’s even a salsa night, from 9 to 11 pm, where one of Maria’s friends (a salsa instructor) comes by and gives free lessons.

As a member of a band that plays there at least once a month, I can easily say it is one of my favorite venues. A mixed, lively crowd and friendly staff always have me feeling right at home. Saturday nights are prime time for live music and Maria herself is the lead singer of the house band, Ulsan Pinoys, who always put on a great show. You can also try authentic Filipino food and drinks (menu below). Don’t be surprised if you walk in around dinner time to a table of Filipinos and Koreans eating and taking turns on the karaoke machine. Maria is also more than happy to host events and parties, and even permits bringing in your own food, as long as you buy your alcoholic beverages in-house.

Photo by Julia Rucinski
‘Stache Potatoes rocking the house!

To say that Maria is just a bartender is another understatement. Maria has been in Korea for 14 years now, 6 of which have been in Ulsan. This isn’t the first bar she’s owned either. Maria used to be a nurse in The Philippines and has held many jobs teaching English here in Korea. She is also perhaps one of the busiest people I know. Other than owning a bar she holds several positions in different local organizations and is extremely passionate about all members of the community here in Ulsan. Some of those titles include: President of the Ulsan Association of Filipinos, Member of Nambu Leader’s Club, Multicultural Ambassadress of the Ministry of Family & Welfare, Asian Community Leader for Ulsan International Volunteer Center, and Foreign Monitor for Ulsan City Hall. Maria is also involved in putting on several annual events such as a beach festival and basketball tournament that draw quite a crowd. Now I am sure you’re thinking, “How does any of this encourage me to visit her bar?” Well, maybe it doesn’t. Nevertheless, Maria is an interesting and loving individual not only worth noting here, but immediately apparent in-person. She is also an important resource. Another reason she created Manila Town was to have a central hub for people to contact her. She actively provides assistance to migrant workers and acts as an advocate to the labor board. She assists local married immigrants with counseling and any domestic problems. Part of her income from Manila Town goes to pay for these services that she provides free of charge.

Photo courtesy of Ulsan Pinoy Band

The next event Maria is hosting is a fundraiser for flood victims in The Philippines. This year they were hit hard with multiple typhoons that left thousands homeless and devastated. The event, “Rock & Rhythm to the Rescue,” will be on December 1^st at a larger venue rented out for the evening, right around the corner from Manila Town. Four bands will be playing (Ulsan Pinoys, ‘Stache Potatoes, Pachuco Trio, and Route 65). Tickets are only 10,000 won, which includes a drink! Check out the details on the Facebook event here. You can also purchase at the door! For any more details feel free to call 010-6744-0918

Photo by Keenan Webb

Photo taken by Keenan Webb

Menu:  

Sizzling sisig   15,000        (party of 2-4)

Pancit bihon   8,000

Afritada

Lumpia          12,000        (party of 2-4)

Afritada         12,000        (party of 2-4)

Menudo         12,000        (party of 2-4)

Adobo            12,000       (party of 2-4)

Philippine Fish

Fried Bangus              8,000          (party of 2)

Fried Tilapia              8,000

Drinks

Redhorse       1000ml          15,000

Regular bottle                        6,000

San Miguel    1000ml          15,000

Regular bottle                        6,000

Cafri / Budweiser                  4,000

Various mixed drinks         5 – 6,000

Photo by Keenan Webb

Photo by Keenan Webb

Feel free to contact me on Facebook or via e-mail: Keenanwebb@gmail.com

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By admin, October 4, 2012 10:10 pm

By Deirdre Madden

Moving half way around the world to teach English can be tough. You leave behind your friends and family, move to a culture completely different from your own, and often find yourself as little more than a glorified babysitter pressing play on a tape deck. One of the keys to surviving a year (or more) in a land far from home is to find a way to do something you love in your spare time.

‘Stache Potatoes was formed originally by Tom Romano, Keenan McLean Webb (aka Kaldaan the Warrior) and Ryan Manary as a way to have some fun.

“It really started in January, when Tom and I played a song for our friend Rachel’s birthday,” explained Keenan. “He wrote it, and I added in. He played guitar and I played bass. It went well, so we started playing and putting things together.”

“I knew Tom and Keenan and their group of friends as acquaintances. We’d always wanted to hang out more, and the one time we finally did, they asked me to join the band and I was blown away,” added Ryan. “Every Tuesday we’d hang out in Keenan’s apartment, work on original songs that Tom wrote, we’d kick around ideas and it really just took off.”

It was at the Open Mic nights at Royal Anchor where they met Nick “The Drummer” Kotel. When the opportunity arose to play for the first Jung-gu street festival in May, they convinced Nick to join them for just the one gig.

At the Jung gu Street Festival, Fall 2012.

“Keenan came up to me when we were doing an Open Mic, and asked me to play with them in that May outdoor show, and I said, ‘I guess’. I played the show, and I had fun,” said Nick. When pressed by the others, he decided to make the commitment to join the band. “I’ve been having a great time with it. I love to play the drums.”

Often in this expat community, groups form and disappear as key members move on to new places. This could have been the fate for ‘Stache Potatoes (or Stashy Potato as they’re called by Koreans) when Tom headed off to Spain about six weeks ago, but luckily Alex Smith was available to step in and fill the vacancy.

“I randomly bumped into Keenan and Ryan when I was at the Royal Anchor one night, an Open Mic on a Thursday night. They saw me play and said, ‘When Tom leaves, do you want to join the band?’ and I said, ‘Yeah, that’d be great.’ So, I did,” Alex said.

Keenan added, “He’s a trooper, too, because before he joined, there was a month where he was coming out to all of our shows. We just knew we had to have him.”

With that addition, the band was once again complete; Alex on lead guitar and piano, Ryan on rhythm guitar, Keenan singing and playing bass, and Nick on drums. On occasion, they’re joined onstage by Danielle Malson, who sings duets in songs such as “Somebody I Used to Know” by Gotye. Originally, they started singing that song with  Amanda Bell, but after she left for India, Danielle stepped up.

The full band

For most of the guys, this is their first real band, where they’ve gone beyond jamming with friends and moved on to scheduled performances in front of audiences.

“Our first major show we thought, ‘Well, we hope we can do this!’” said Ryan.

The positive response, not only from the audience, but from another Ulsan band, Karaoke Dokey, gave them a lot of confidence to keep going. Ryan continued, “Every week we go out and play; Tuesday’s practice, Thursday’s Open Mic, playing any gig we can get. And now we have a gig almost every Friday and Saturday this month.”

At Manilla Town. Photo by Julia Rucinski

When asked about the name, the group just laughed. “I came up with it!” piped up Ryan. Keenan tells the story: “One night, me, Ryan and Tom pretty much were like, ok, we’ve booked a show so now we need to come up with a name. So we decided to go out, walk to the corner store, get a few beers and kick around a few ideas. Well, a few beers turned into about 7 beers … Ryan came up with ‘Stache Potatoes, and I think we laughed for around 15 minutes straight. We just thought it was genius then, and then it kind of became a commitment. We decided, ‘Ok, we’re just going to stick with it, that’s it.’ Then I decided to grow out a mustache, and now people literally won’t let me shave it off. They tell me I look weird without it. I used to hate mustaches.”

“He’s the only guy with a real mustache, so I have some sunglasses that have a dangling mustache, or we wear stick-ons,” Ryan pointed out.

“My look has become a result of the band. This is a novelty item, it’s just permanently on my face,” Keenan elaborated, to much laughter from the rest of the group.

Nick jokingly added, “As the drummer, I have no decision making abilities at all. They never come to me for anything.”

On the surface, the guys appear to just be having a lot of fun. It’s clear they’re good friends, as there’s a lot of good natured teasing back and forth. But underneath the joking and banter, there is a seriousness and sincerity about creating music not just for themselves, but that others will appreciate.

Previously, they played a few original songs written by Tom, but since he left, they are now working on their own collaborations. While they enjoy playing a wide variety of covers in their shows, they’d like to do a lot more of their own stuff eventually.

Photo by Julia Rucinski

“It’s in that alternative rock, indie style. We like stuff that’s catchy, that we like to play, that we think people will enjoy hearing,” said Keenan.

“We like to see them dance,” Ryan added.

“By the end of the month we should have our three new ones ready to go, along with some more covers. We want to keep it fresh, not just repeat the same set list constantly,” said Keenan.

Some of their favourite cover songs include “Creep” by Radiohead, which is loved by both foreigners and Koreans in the audience, “Thrash Unreal” by Against Me!, and “Seven Nation Army” by the White Stripes. They’ve recently added Bryan Adams “Summer of ‘69” and play classics like CCR, Zeppelin, the Beatles, and 90’s alternative rock. While different members have different favourites, they all agree that getting the crowd up and dancing is the best part.

“We want to play stuff we like, but we also want people to rock out to our songs,” said Keenan.

“I pretty much like any song I can groove to,” added Nick.

Jung gu Street Festival, Fall 2012

Their backgrounds are diverse, and their influences range from progressive rock to heavy metal, from rap to reggae, from Sublime to Brand New.

Alex, from Nottingham, England, has classical training in piano, and lists Chopin as a favourite, along with Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page. “I’ve played in jazz bands and rock bands, and before I came out here I was in a heavy metal band. Everything I do revolves around music. I love it.”

Keenan, who is from New Smyrna Beach, Florida, sang with choirs throughout school and is self-taught on the bass. His 20 minute drive to and from high school was where he really started to let loose, “I’d just rock out in my car. Eventually I’d ride around with my friends and, you know, not care what they thought, so I’d continue to rock out. Then my best friend, Sean, he picked up guitar, and he’s amazing. I thought, ‘Well, I don’t just want to sing. What am I going to do with my hands?’ so I just picked up bass, and taught myself from music tabs online.”

Ryan, from Painesville, Ohio, started out playing the drums, but switched over to guitar when he was in high school. “I had about seven lessons that my parents paid for, but I didn’t stick with it. Then I went to college and I started just playing with other people. I’m obsessed with the guitar now.” He also plays harmonica. “Some old hippie taught me when I was out camping.”

Nick from Belleville, Ontario, had no interest in music until his parents sent him for drum lessons at the age of 13. “I quit for a while and took it back up in high school and played in the school jazz band for about 2 years. Then I stopped playing until about my 3^rd year of university when I’d jam with my friends. If it wasn’t for my parents, I would never have played the drums. I’m really thankful that they did that. Otherwise, what else would I be doing in Korea? I’d just be sitting there.”

Photo by Julia Rucinski

So what does the future hold for ‘Stache Potatoes?

First and foremost, the guys see the band as a hobby, something to do while they’re teaching English to make their experience in Korea even better.

“We’re enjoying Korea from a completely different perspective, because we’re getting to go places and play music. I’ve made probably more Korean friends because of the band than I did before,” Keenan said.

It’s also a chance for the friends to hang out and get in their “bro time” as Keenan put it. But that doesn’t mean they don’t have bigger aspirations.

Having recently booked a show in Busan and made connections in Daegu, they now have their sights set on making it to Seoul. And ultimately, they’d like to cut an album, to have something tangible for all of their hard work.

“I’d also like t-shirts,” added Keenan. “So, you know, we’re aiming really high.”

It’s hard not to picture the best case scenario, especially in the recent wake of success seen by Burlington, Ontario band, Walk off the Earth, who’s cover of Gotye’s “Somebody I Used to Know” became an internet sensation, and has reached over 136 million views on YouTube.

“My Mom thinks we’re going to be the Beatles. But you never know with technology these days. Something could go viral, it could be big on YouTube, and you never know. I’d be willing to just put my life on hold and go tour with the band if we got big, but I’m not expecting it,” Ryan said.

“Stache Potatoes go to Siberia!” Keenan joked.

They’ve accomplished a lot for a group who played their first gig in May, and have only been together in their current form for six weeks. They acknowledge that they’ve had a lot of help along the way.

“I do want to give a shout out to Karaoke Dokey. They’ve been so supportive and really encouraging, and given us constructive criticism. Most of the time they’ve had a gig, they’ve invited us to perform and they’ve been really awesome to us. I really appreciate everything they’ve done for us. I feel like maybe in another setting, things might be a little more competitive. Where things are a little more static, people would be out to boost themselves, and we’ve kind of boosted each other and it’s been a really cool feeling of brotherhood between our two bands. So we’ve got to give mad props to them,” said Keenan.

“Also, we need to give a thank you to Mr. Kim (from the Royal Anchor – ed). He gives us a place to practice, a place to put on shows,” said Ryan.

“Any day that he’s available, he’ll have a show, he’ll make drink specials, just so we can put something together,” added Nick.

“Yeah, he’s probably been our number 1 fan, and our biggest critic,” said Keenan.

“Also, we want to thank Manilla Town, with Maria. They’ve given us a place to practice, and gigs as well,” Ryan said.

“They’ve been really encouraging and helpful. Of course you can’t play shows if you don’t have somewhere to start. Now we’re doing other places, it’s all because of not only the open mic nights where we all met, but because of individual shows we’ve been able to put on at those two venues,” Keenan added.

And, of course, they realize that their current success has a lot to do with “the people who’ve shown an interest in (their) shows and come out” to support them in different venues around the city.

‘Stache Potatoes may someday reach the lofty heights of Rock ‘n’ Roll stardom, or they may disband when a Yoko comes between them, but in the meantime, the guys are dedicated to rockin’ out and having fun, and sharing that with everyone around them.

If you’re wondering where you can check out these talented guys, look no further. Their October shows are all in Ulsan, but after that they’ll be heading further afield to Busan and Daegu, so catch ‘em while they’re near by!

They will be playing tonight (October 5, 2012) at the Royal Anchor in Seongnamdong (Shinae/Old Downtown), at Karaoke Dokey’s final Anchor show. ‘Stache Potatoes go on at 10:30, followed by Karaoke Dokey at 11:30.

Saturday (Oct. 6) at 5pm they will be playing at the World Music Festival at the Ulsan Cultural Center beside KBS Hall in Daldong. ‘Stache Potatoes will be performing in the T-Hope Tent, raising money for the T-Hope Christmas Party out at the Ulsan Orphanage. Karaoke Dokey is onstage at 3pm Sunday (and it will be lead singer Jon’s last show with them, as he leaves the following day).

Join the lads at the Open Mic night at Royal Anchor, every Thursday at 10:30pm. It’s not a band night, it’s a chance for anyone to get up and perform – sing, tell jokes, recite your best emo poem. Who knows, it could be the start of something big!

Check out Ryan’s YouTube channel, Teacherman50, to see his students singing the songs he’s taught them throughout the year.

And don’t forget to check out their Facebook page, and hit “Like” to keep up to date on all of their goings-on.

Here’s a complete run-down of their upcoming events so far. Their shows will be added to the Ulsan Online Events Calendar, too.

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By Martin Rehder, September 14, 2012 8:12 pm

Ulsan’s Dong-Gu seems to be getting all the best new pubs and restaurants these days. The newest addition to the area is Pub Thursday’s near Hyundai Hotel.

Thursday’s is a western style pub that appeals to Expats and Koreans  with it’s clean style and eclectic menu. Just opened in May of this year, the place is spotlessly clean and furnished with comfortable chairs.

As any respectable pub should have, the draft beer selection is admirable. Guiness, Kilkenny, Hoegaarden, Miller and Cass are on tap, but a plethora of other brands, domestic and foreign, are available in bottles including Corona, Asahi, and San Miguel Pale Pilsen.  Other bottled drinks such as Somerset Apple Cider and Smirnoff  Ice are available.   Thursday’s sports a full bar and has a  a collection of popular wines as well as the usual suspects of the  harder beverages of whiskey, bourbon, vodka and rum.

On the menu, an equally delicious assortment of western and local fare can be found. Steaks and pasta looked great as did the curried lamb and fajitas. Required food for any establishment to be called a pub is fish and chips which are available along with other sides such as potato skins, fries, nachos and Korean style anju.  On the night I went, we opted for fried shrimp with french fries and the sour cream enchiladas. As a former resident of Texas, I’ve been disappointed in the past with other restaurants claiming to have Mexican food, but Thursday’s enchiladas were the real deal.  I’d recommend them to anyone hankering for a taste of the southwest. Smothered in sour cream sauce and covered in cheddar cheese they were served with sides of  real sour cream, salsa and authentic jalapeno peppers.  Chef Jeong Da Bong is fully capable of whipping up some delicious dinners. A table of Korean diners adjacent to us seemed to be enjoying their dinner selections of pastas as well as we enjoyed our dinners.

The ambience of the place was quiet for a Friday night, but it was rainy and we suspect many folks decided to stay in that night. The owner, Su Park, is very friendly and speaks English well. Having lived abroad for 17 years, she has a good idea of what expats living in Korea are looking for in a pub and strives hard to ensure her customers are taken care of. She flitted among tables freely talking with her guests and serving food and drinks. Chef Jeong also speaks English well.

Owner Su Park and Chef Jeong Da Bong

A well stocked bar

Lots of comfortable tables

A full size pool table simply begging to be played

A quiet corner for reading

I was particularly impressed with the restrooms. So many of Korea’s bars tend to have these, but somehow forget they are part of the establishment and neglect  to clean them regularly or furnish them properly. Thursday’s restrooms are bright, clean, odorless and even have fresh paper towels. Patrons should expect no fear or trepidation upon entering these necessary rooms.

Thursday’s only had a half dozen or so patrons when we arrived at 9pm and the place was a little quiet. But as I mentioned, it was a rainy night. Also, they have done no advertising since opening and have only relied on word of mouth to spread among the local residents.  Su hopes that other residents and workers in Dong-Gu find her place and sample her wares. With a fine menu and bar,  Thursday’s is a great place to relax, get fed some comfort food to remind us of home and chat with friends.  We hope Su’s pub thrives and provides Ulsan residents with another great place for nights out.

To find, Thursday’s, travel north from Hyundai Hotel and McDonald’s along the main road. Thursday’s is 1 1/2 blocks from McDonald’s on the 2nd floor.  The main entrance, however, is to your left up a short alley.  Buses  in the 100-range that go to HHI will get you there, as will 401, 1104, 1114, 1401.