Job Discussion Forums

ratpack · Joined: 20 Dec 2006 Posts: 1

Hi all,

I posted a similar question in the Korean section but I want to get an opinion from this side.

I have a choice to teach either in Korea or Japan as my first Teaching English Abroad Job. I'm not sure which one to pursue first. I've been given advice to teach in Korea first then save money to go to Japan. I have a little debt I want to pay off about $3,000-4,000 USD. I think in Japan that would be harder to do while not having to worry about money, since the start up cost is more.

Others have told me it would be easier to get settled in Japan first then later move to S. Korea because the transition would be easier since S. Korea is a little more unsettling. I'm interested in both cultures, although I do have a little more interest in Japan. I think I'd have a better time in Japan if I didn't worry so much on money.

If you've taught in Japan and S. Korea which did you do first and why? Would you have done something differently. Thank you for your help and Merry Christmas!

Venti · Joined: 19 Oct 2006 Posts: 171 Location: Kanto, Japan

Sounds like you'd rather be in Japan.

You can save $3000-$4000 US inside of a year in Japan if you want to. Eating out every night (not talking Yoshinoya here), nightlife every night, blah blah blah... That'll make it hard to save, but it's doable on an entry-level teacher's salary (￥250,000/month).

canuck · Joined: 11 May 2003 Posts: 1921 Location: Japan

AndyH · Joined: 30 Sep 2004 Posts: 417

Ratpack,
I've taught in both countries: seven months in South Korea (didn't finish my contract), and going on four years in Japan.
IF (and it's often a BIG IF) your employer honors your contract, you have the potential to save more money in Korea.

But, based on my experience and the experiences of the majority of people who've taught in Korea, it isn't worth it, unless you get lucky and land a job with a school which will treat you professionally and ethically.

After your first couple of months, you shouldn't have any problems saving a lot of money in Japan AND have fun. Just don't make a habit of going out to the bars and izakiyas every night. I am presently saving about $1,000 per month, and that is while supporting a wife and baby. Mind you, I don't have the fun I used to!

Korea has its charms, and I met some great people there, but overall, I think you will probably be happier in Japan, in the long run. However, by first going to Korea, you may appreciate Japan more.