Korean Job Discussion Forums

[lackadaize]

I've been reading horror stories about not getting paid and not getting severace or health insurance, etc. I'm not sure if only the bad gets reported or if most of the jobs teaching english in SK are hell holes. I woul dlike it if anyone has found a place where they really enjoy good relations with the management. I am looking to work in seoul, so if anyone knows particular places in seoul it would be even more helpful.

[oskinny1]

I like my job but I am not in Seoul. I teach at a public technical high school (the kids most likely won't go to uni) and have a blast. Since it isn't academic centered it is really laid back and they let me do my own thing. I have teachers invite me to their homes' and play on the school's soccer team. I have had nothing but support from everybody.

I know at least part of this is do to my attitude though. I put on a smile when I can and it has helped. A few teachers have told me they were surprised because usually when they see waygook-ins they look angry or sad (I haven't really noticed this). If yu treat them well they will treat you well...usually.

[passport220]

It is not a sure thing, but you have a much better chance of finding an enjoyable work place if you go with a public school.

[Bibbitybop]

My school rocks. Great teachers, location, students, administration, lunches, office environment and work-load. I'll be staying here at least another year.

[kprrok]

I had a great hagwon in Jeju. It was fantastic. The boss was cool and really laid back. He supported us and gave us the materials we needed. The supervisor was excellent. She was able to talk to me about anything, school or personal that was needed. She was a true friend. The other teachers were good co-workers. The only problem was the other foreigners there. Just couldn't get a good one. There were good teachers but terrible people, and good people but terrible teachers. Oh well.

The kicker, it was a Wonderland!

KPRROK

[formerflautist]

Yes, I genuinely like my job. But it's the first job out of four here that I can say that about. It's also the first job I've had at a public school.

[sadsac]

As with many, I'm not in Seoul, but the hagwon I work at is great. Smaller town, more relaxed.

[jinks]

I've enjoyed the work environment at every Korean school I have been in (hagwons x 2 and universities x 2). There have been a few hiccoughs along the way - but that's why they call it 'work'.

[ilovebdt]

I really liked my first job at GnB hagwon in Pohang. I would have gone back, but I didn't want to work evenings, so I switched to a public school gig.
My public school is ok, but I miss my hagwon sometimes.

ilovebdt

[sjk1128]

I liked my job just fine the first year - until my boss paid me later and later. It ended in a showdown at the labor board.

My job my second year was in a public school, and overall it was great. 3rd grade Middle School discipline was a problem, but it would be anywhere. Also, at the end of the year I had to file a compaint with the tax office to get my school's accountant to file my taxes properly and give me a refund. Other than that I have few complaints.

This is my 3rd year and I'm in public school again, this time at an elementary school. I love it so far. The kids are easier to handle in terms of discipline, the teachers are even nicer than last year, and the school is located in a pretty area. The most important factor is that I find this age group a real joy to teach.

Good luck.

[ChuckECheese]

I wouldn't know since I only enjoy none working environment.

[aveguard]

I really enjoy my working environment....not much stress at all. They are also looking for another teacher at the moment...if you know of anyone.