Korean Job Discussion Forums

eddie1983man · Joined: 31 May 2007

I have read alot of negative comments on teaching in South Korea. Whats the deal with these people? I know some people have bad experiences in South Korea, but some people seem to just have such negative comments I almost feel as though maybe I might be making a mistake by choosing South Korea.

Will these people have something negative to say about every country they go to? I think so.

I think I'm just goin to ignore these people cus they will just bring me down and make me have a bad experience. But on the other hand im really curious as to why they have such a negative attitude.

I'm going to have a open mind for this experience and hopefully i will love it!

So if you really have a negative opinion of South Korea, Im asking you now to leave some specific comments about why it sucks so much. Please be specific, because there are too many comments on how South Korea sucks. I think it's just because they have had a bad experience with an institution. So leave that out of the equation and let me know why you hate Korea so much. i'm asking now, so I hear every side of the story.

Now on the other hand. I'm also want to hear about all the great things about South Korea. please share. What is really great about the country? Why do you stay there? I guess i want to hear both sides of the story.

if you have something to say about South Korea, whether it be negative or positive, please share.

Thanks!

Ed

caniff · Joined: 03 Feb 2004 Location: All over the map

Although the exclamation point seemed too much for me, I voted yes.

I wouldn't take back my experience here, or want to start again. I do have times when I want to hang it up and flee, but I also know I would miss some aspects of living here. But certainly not all aspects.

After 4 years, I miss the anonymity of the West. I am tired of people approaching me when sometimes I just want to go about my business. But as a nice guy, I feel like I have to smile and be a good ambassador. I do it, but it sure gets old.

However, there are many very generous people here, and those who will bend over backwards to help you.

I met a wife I love very much. Most of the food rocks (in my opinion). And just people watching here can be highly amusing.

I won't even go into my single years here. Embarassed

So I voted yes.

DanielP · Joined: 25 Nov 2006

I love this place. I've made my fourth month, and after some time in culture shock, I have to say that Korea is an amazing country.

Granted, there is a lot here that can frustrate you, and even make you want to lock yourself in your place and not get out.

On the other hand, this place has so much potential. I love learning the language, culture, and people. Korea is entering a new phase in its history, from a country that was literaly colonized for much of its time, to an economic powerhouse, and you can see the transformation in the people.

For the open-minded, goal oriented foreigner, this place is a haven.

Daniel

skconqueror · Joined: 31 Jul 2005

DCJames · Joined: 27 Jul 2006

schwa · Joined: 18 Jan 2003 Location: Yap

Some things never change. The negative tone on this board nearly dissuaded me from coming here 8 years ago but I've had a great experience with no let up in sight. Korea isnt for everyone but suits a good number well.

Relentlessly bitter posters clearly have other issues.

SuperFly · Joined: 09 Jul 2003 Location: In the doghouse

If I could go back in time to May of 1996, I'd have taken the job in Japan instead of Korea.

wylies99 · Joined: 13 May 2006 Location: I'm one cool cat!

Dev · Joined: 18 Apr 2006

I love my job, but I like a little order in my life and there seems to be no order in Korean daily life.

The majority of foreigners find Korea amusing for a year or two and then return to their home countries. You'll likely fall into this group.

Julius · Joined: 27 Jul 2006

The poll question is gramatically flawed.

If I answer yes, then logically that means I have found Korea to be mostly positive and mostly negative, simultaneously.

Demophobe · Joined: 17 May 2004

Doogie · Joined: 19 Jan 2006 Location: Hwaseong City

I agree with Caniff about missing the anonymity of the West. The staring and the whole thing about teenagers thinking you're a zoo display gets very old after a while. On the positive side, my students are the best and I have made some Korean friends who have been nothing short of great. I'm leaving Korea in August to try teaching in another country but I leave with no regrets.

bosintang · Posted: Sun Jun 10, 2007 6:40 pm Post subject:

Overall, a good experience, but my expiry date for Asia was about 2 1/2 years and I'll be going on four when I leave. I regret moving to Japan (and back to Korea again). I regret staying here after 2 1/2 years.

However, as the saying goes, it's better to regret the things you've done than the things you haven't done.