Korean Job Discussion Forums

Peter Jackson · Joined: 23 Apr 2006

Apart from being in a rural location, the position sounds good. I interviewed with two Korean and one native speaker over the phone. They all seemed very honest and up-front about things. They said the students were quite high level and that the work was challenging...no problem for me.

Anyone know of this school or location?

Thanks

Smee · Joined: 24 Dec 2004 Location: Jeollanam-do

I know there's a foreign language high school in Yeongsanpo, Naju city. Is that the same one? If so, I know the foreign teacher there, and have passed through the area a few times. I'll post more later if we're talking about the same thing.

Peter Jackson · Joined: 23 Apr 2006

Yes, the school is in Yongsan dong in Naju, Chonnam. Is this the same school?

Thanks for any info.

Smee · Joined: 24 Dec 2004 Location: Jeollanam-do

Yeah, the foreign teacher there will be able to answer any questions you have. She also has a blog that you can check out to see some of the daily goings-on. In April I thought about applying for an opening in August, but ultimately decided against it. Also, with only a B.A. + experience I think I'd lose out to people with advanced degrees. But the idea of teaching advanced students sounded attractive. I did that myfirst year in Korea, but am at a rural elementary school this time, and I guess I was desperate for students who spoke English. The job definitely sounds both challenging and rewarding.

Anyway, it's in a part of town called Yeongsanpo (Yeongsan Harbor) which was originally a separate town. I pass through there every time I go to Gwangju, and I guess it's pretty typical of small towns in Jeollanam-do. There is a bus terminal there and it looks to be about ten minutes from "downtown" Naju.
http://wiki.galbijim.com/Yeongsanpo

There are about 100,000 people in Naju, although that includes all the towns and villages within the city limits. Naju has a few interesting historical sites, and it's very green, but it doesn't have any benefits of a "city" its size. You'll be able to find a gym, and grocery stores, and Korean food no problem. There are also a couple of train stations within Naju. But for department stores, movie theaters, and western food, you'll have to go to Gwangju.

The teacher there will be able to fill you in on any foreigner-friendly bars and restaurants. Last I heard there were about 3 foreigners in town, so I guess a foreigner bar is wherever the 3 of you decide to meet. While I enjoyed visiting the park and the two large gates in town, the best part of Naju for me was that it was only 25 minutes away from Gwangju.

More information and a few pics: http://wiki.galbijim.com/Naju