Korean Job Discussion Forums

Seoulman_70 · Joined: 21 Apr 2003

I know many of you have vast amount of knowledge in this area. The situation is this: My one year contract is up in 2 weeks and my school seems reluctant to pay out Severance Pay. Severance pay is not explicitly stated in my contract but I understand it is my right. Where do I turn to for assistance in collecting severance pay.

Thank for your help.

My efforts here are to be prepared.

In advance Thank you

Harvard Material · Joined: 25 Feb 2003 Location: Seoul

S. Man 70...go to www.hagwonreport.com and search for the phone numbers of the departments you will need. I have a few phone numbers I will try to post for you tomorrow. I know some schools/hakwons don't pay severance, but it must be stated clearly, and it usually has some type of incentive to interest employees. I wouldn't mind living without a month's salary if it was arranged I got a great holiday period, or something similar. It depends on your contract statements. Does it say you 'don't' get it? You need to investigate, and therefore go to the hagwonreport webpage.

My location tried the same on a former co-worker, but she received it in full on her last day of work. The director originally said "I'll let you know next week." 15 days before co-worker left the director said "No. I am not happy with your work." 5 days later "Would you accept 50 %?" She refused to accept half. The owner said "No. Then you don't get any!" Well...why would the owner offer 50%? Obviously a scare tactic. If it worked, the owner would save half of 2million won - if the employee accepts it. If not, you get fed a big fat "NO!" until you either tire of it...or persist. I would insist and persist. If you do nothing, nothing happens.

To make a long story short, you had best prepare yourself now. I assisted my co-worker, and I doubt she would have received it without my help. She didn't have a lot of time to deal with it either, but it was enough time. You have enough time.

I'll post again soon with something that will help you out. Stay cool.

Lost Seoul · Joined: 10 Jan 2003

In theory if you work a year you are entitled to severance pay. Try talking to your employer about it in a calm and respectful manner. If you feel all chances of a peaceful resolution has gone contact the Ministry of Labor, for contact details of regional offices go to the link below and if the MOL takes up your case be prepared for a long and arduous fight. Furthermore to get anything done you will probably have to stay in the country which means you would have to find another teaching job, if you are willing to make these sacrifices good luck.

http://www.molab.go.kr/English/abou/sub_3_2.jsp

Seoulman_70 · Joined: 21 Apr 2003

Thanks for your input. There is no mention of severance anywhere in my contract. I did not think it had to be stated since it is Korean law, and lets face it having conversations with Hagwon managers and owners over work and contract issues is about as productive and useful as being repeatedly kicked in the NUTS!!

I have also heard that the immigration office can be used to pressure hagwons, since I the hagwon risks the chance of losing its privilege to hire foreigners. I have heard you can file a request for severance with the immigration office. (Yes I agree it does sound odd that immigration would meddle in these affaires) Has anyone heard of this??

I will keep you updated with the situation

Sincerely

Harvard Material · Joined: 25 Feb 2003 Location: Seoul

Absolutely. The contract Immigration has may(or may not), state that you do get a severance package at the end of your contract.

Contact Immigration and get some facts. It's worth a shot, and there is a good chance they can solve your situation if they want to pressure the director. Especially if it's the same story from that location year in and year out.