Korean Job Discussion Forums

Been There, Taught That · Posted: Tue Jul 03, 2007 10:12 pm Post subject: What can I expect?

Having been away from Korea for 4 years, I'm taking pains to prepare myself to return (what, everyone who's been there and made their escape doesn't savor the prospect of wading into the fray again?). As part of my preparation, different than I did things last time, I'm seeking all kinds of input from anyone interested in putting in their 20 Won.

From what I've gotten on Dave's, various Korea ESL-oriented websites and all the way to municipal and other government-related information, it seems that the way I left the ESL situation is the way it still is: hagwons haven't gotten any closer to being real institutes of education in English; English saturation is still the ideal and still far from being realized; schools and hagwons still face off with foreign teachers and cultural expectations still get in the way of smooth transitions.

But what in the world of ESL in Korea has really changed in 4 years? What can I expect as a foreign teacher that may be a total or slight surprise compared to 2003? More opportunity, less? better working conditions, worse?

Are there more foreign teachers or fewer? More non-hagwon opportunities? Is the desire for foreign teachers slowing down (a whole debate in itself)? Higher pay? Better leverage, bargaining position? Maybe I should just ask if Korean directors, supervisors, teachers, etc., are learning anything about creating a more casual work environment (My last hagwon director had that down).

And, dare I ask: any improvements in the apartment department? This time, I'll be bringing my wife and 2-year-old daughter, so that inquiry is an important one.

Come to think of it, I have no idea how a western toddler girl will be treated. I was single and alone last time, so right there is a situation that will be brand new. And I plan to stay longer, so she will be interacting quite extensively.

Anyone who's been there the last four, what's your perspective on change? Or, if you are brand new to the situation, what is your impression? Have your expectations been met, exceeded, disappointed? Overwhelmed by the reality of what you did to yourself or wondering why you hadn't thought of this before? Anybody with advice, stories, laments, etc., I'll be happy to hear from you.

I'm speaking in a good way when I say that any information I can pick up here is really right from the horse's mouth. So, thanks for your input.

spliff · Joined: 19 Jan 2004 Location: Khon Kaen, Thailand

I wouldn't go telling any prospective employers that you're fresh out of prison, is my advice.

Been There, Taught That · Posted: Tue Jul 03, 2007 10:19 pm Post subject:

ttompatz · Joined: 05 Sep 2005 Location: Kwangju, South Korea

spliff · Joined: 19 Jan 2004 Location: Khon Kaen, Thailand

rhinocharge64 · Joined: 20 Sep 2006

to the last poster get a fooking life you sad tosser.

ttompatz · Joined: 05 Sep 2005 Location: Kwangju, South Korea

Sody · Joined: 14 May 2006

My best advice to the OP is to ask specifically for a villa and NOT an officetel. Make sure you let them know this is important to you. An officetel is no place to raise a family. BoL.

Sody