Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Kid65]

So i'm meant to be starting in Korea in September. I have a few arm/wrist tattoos, although nothing that would be visible wearing a long sleeved shirt.

How would fellow Korean teachers feel about my tattoos? Would it be best to keep them hidden even outside of classes?

Also, beards, i like my beard/stubble, will they?

[PRagic]

There are basically two sets of standards, one for Koreans, and one for non-Koreans. You can have tatoos and a beard, and while remarks may be made, it's neither here nor there for the most part. Foreigners make a bigger deal out of having them than Koreans do about seeing them.

Tatoos, in particular, are becoming more and more socially acceptable. Beard (stubble), too, has been making headway. Still, in the field of education, clean cut rules the day, especially if you are teaching kids.

In my experience, you get farther by playing by the local rules. If you dress well and are clean shaven, you are treated better and taken more seriously. In the end, it's up to you how you want to approach your time overseas.

[tomato]

Hello, Kid65!

My beard has never caused any trouble.
This is me, as seen through the eyes of a student's younger sister:

[dutchy pink]

I would try to cover up the tattoos just to be nice. But it's not a big deal in my experience. i have a few nonvisible ones, and in the course of stretching, etc,, a few students saw them. By the next day, every student in the school wanted to see them, then it quickly faded to a non-issue.

[Kid65]

Sounds good thanks...i'll just keep my stubble in check with clippers, same as i have for 5 years...

Nice picture tomato...

[Donkey Beer]

My boss started showing me a lot of respect after i stopped trying to hide my tattoos.

I had not received a paystub for the first few months of working. One day it was really hot, so i rolled up my sleeves as i once again confronted him on this issue. He began to act very respectful- a manner which he had never exhibited before. Needless to say, i was given my paystub the very same day. He also began greeting me in a friendly way whenever i saw him from then on.

Perhaps he believes that i am a gangster (kkangpae) or he respects a man who is not afraid to express himself.

I see no problem with tattoos, facial hair or piercings in this country. It has only been a positive thing for me in Korea.

[Chloe11]

I have a nose stub which I assumed that I would have to remove upon arrival. Nobody has out and out told me that I can't have it yet, but I also haven't asked ...

[Zark]

I had a beard for a couple years - but that was at a college. Never heard any comments, admin never said anything. Was called "Santa Claus" a fair amount (white beard - older chubby guy) - but all in good humor.