Job Discussion Forums

Lissabe · Joined: 27 Apr 2004 Posts: 9 Location: Chicago, Il

I will begin by first apologizing if this post is being written in the incorrect forum. I am strongly considering taking a position with the Mun Hwa Language School in Gwangju South Korea. I have done quite a bit of research so I feel as though I am making a confident decison. After reading many of the posts on the Korean Job Forum, it seems as though not only are African Americans not welcome, but that this feeling is understood by many of the teachers on this forum. I have no problems with stares or comments, my skin happens to be very thick. The issue for me is that this website presents itself as moral support and assistance, however in many instances this does not seem to be the case. I support free speech and understand that some individuals may have the opinion that darker skinned individuals are not as bright as their Caucasian counterparts. I feel that I do need a straight answer as to whether or not I will be accepted and/or tolerated. Any advice will be wonderful. Thanks again for your time.

shenyanggerry · Joined: 02 Nov 2003 Posts: 619 Location: Canada

Here you're judged by what and how you post. Welcome. Try the Korean area to find out if they have skin colour issues.

Good luck. I hope you enjoy Korea as much as I enjoy China.

shmooj · Joined: 11 Sep 2003 Posts: 1758 Location: Seoul, ROK

The Great Wall of Whiner · Joined: 29 Jan 2003 Posts: 4946 Location: Blabbing

I'll give it to you straight up.

The foreigners in Korea (Aussies, Canucks, Americans, etc.) couldn't give a rat's arse what colour your skin is.

The Koreans on the other hand have a fear of black people in general. They call black people monkeys, black dirty dogs, etc.

Why do I know this?

3 years in Korea, able to speak Korean. Personally, Korea does not do it for me. I find Koreans quite arrogant and selfish and very ignorant about the world.

Every school I have ever worked for in Korea has ripped me off in one form or another.

In China, I have had no such problem. In Taiwan, my boss was excellent. Same in Japan (for the most part).

In the city I work in now, there are three black people teaching English and making a good salary. And they are from Nigeria!

So, personally, I would try Japan, Taiwan, or China instead. But it's your call.

Good Luck Lisa.