Korean Job Discussion Forums

[MicheleF]

Hi, I've been reading past threads on this topic, however the most recent one dates back to 2003. My boyfriend and I are hoping to find a contract to teach in Seoul ASAP. He is black and we have heard that this may make it more difficult for him to sign a contract. Is this still true? Is racism still prevalent in South Korea? I've heard different opinions on this topic. Friends have told me that the culture is simply not that accepting of other, whatever your race. However I'm wondering if they are especially racist if you are black. I've also heard that Seoul is more accepting. Anyhow, I would appreciate any feedback. As much as we would prefer to go to Korea to save more money, we're thinking that we should go to Japan where they are more tolerant.

Oh and if it is an issue, is it more of an issue in private or public schools?

Thanks!

[stevieg4ever]

Unfortunately it will be difficult for him. The fairer the skin you have the better your chances of finding a job. Im not white either and it took a while to finally land a job. I am also contemplating returning but, like your boyfriend, will face similar obstacles no doubt.

As for some of the preconceptions / misconceptions Koreans have about black people well lets just say that if you start on that grey area you will see a 10 pager develop. Its probably best not to go down that road now, especially on this forum.

Good luck to you both though!

[caniff]

When I worked at a public school the other foreign teacher was black. He was my friend from before, so I had a little to do with getting him the job (introductions). He was really popular with the students and teachers. I think it's a case of getting the foot in the door, but as I am a whitie I don't know how difficult the job search would be for someone just starting out.

[aldershot]

koreans still do black-face comedy sketches on TV. 'nuff said.

[bjonothan]

Korea is the most racist place I have been to so far. Not accepting other races is exactly right. Being black, he will get a job, but probably not with a real good school. Koreans believe that the darker the skin, the more stupid you are. It is probably better in Seoul, but pretty much the same mentality everywhere in Korea.

[Wangja]

[SPINOZA]

I've never asked the blacks I know in public schools (one may not be in Korea any more, actually) what their treatment by kids has been like. I really wanna ask but never got round to it. One guy I've met seems like a really good, intelligent teacher and his comments suggest he's happier than numerous white wusses one encounters. Saw said party waking round with a pretty Korean girl too.

Nevertheless, I know of two blacks in public school and a coupla girls in hagwons. Clearly, places will take black applicants, however it is correct that Korea has less liberal attitudes to race. It sure ain't San Francisco.

[jaganath69]

Re the comment that it is better to look in Seoul, there are black teachers in the provinces as well, Cheongju for example.

[Son Deureo!]

[earthbound14]

Koreans are pretty hung up on colour.....

I went to the Phillipenes and some of my most intelligent students asked me why I would want to go to a country full of dark barbarians? I looked at my student showed him my white arm and said he looked dark to me but I didn't thnk he was a barbarian!

I had a girl friend whose Mom thought I was too white!!! I had to remind her that my family came from northern Europe where there isn't much sun in the winter and that everyone there was very white and I couldn't possibly change that. I also had to remind her that she was dark for a Korean and that I thought she was very beautiful and I didn't want her to change her skin colour.

My employer, who