Regarding of 12 month Multiple Entry visa

Hello!
I'm a US citizen, with 6months+ on my ARC. I have been given 12 month multiple entry one for PRC before, but both times I applied from the NYC office. While in China I've heard many people discuss not being able to obtain a multiple entry one....Will I be able to get one by visiting one of the CVASC's in Seoul? Also, I have a close friend living in China, who will be writing a letter of support on my behalf. Lastly, my boyfriend will also be applying, can one of us bring in all the paperwork, or must we each do it separately?
Thanks so much!
Amanda