Korean Job Discussion Forums

[neaera]

My boss does not typically speak to me, but today on my way out the door, he told me he doesn't want me to smoke because parents might see and it could blemish the reputation of the Hagwon.

Does anyone know if he is legally allowed to tell me not to smoke? -- He even suggested that I quit entirely, and made a "joke" that if I smoke in the morning I should brush my teeth "really well" before I come into work.

I am aware that being female & smoking is quite the taboo (in the more conservative places...) but I am wondering if he is crossing any kind of line with this. I mean, I can go without cigarettes while I'm working so it really isn't a big deal for me not to smoke. (And yes, I am aware that smoking is bad for you)

I'm just going to do what he says, but for my own peace of mind, I'd like to know if there are any legal restrictions on this sort of thing, and what my rights are as far as this goes.

[babtangee]

He can't rightfully fire you for smoking, though he might give it a go. I'd say he's most probably just trying to intimidate you - assert is wonjang power, so to speak. Be careful: the more he can get you to do the more he will demand from you.

Just avoid smoking near the school and ignore the rest. If he complains someone reported they've seen you smoking laugh about it. Tell him you have your parents' permission to smoke in your free time. Don't let him think you feel guilty about it otherwise he may find other unpleasant ways to keep you on your toes.

I'd probably smoke at work if I could (during breaks of course - haha), regardless of what my boss said, but fortunately the opportunity really isn't there (no major breaks).

[GreenlightmeansGO]

Light one up in front of him and stub it out on his eye.

I'm not being serious, I'm just cranky because I can't sleep.

(Doesn't mean he doesn't deserve it, though)

[yingwenlaoshi]

He had no business saying that to you. And he probably wouldn't say it to a man. What you have here is harrassment. Doesn't matter if the subject is smoking. Could be anything. He's just created an uncomfortable situation.

[Pak Yu Man]

What's he going to do? Fire you? With all new hoops E visa holders have jump through.
Ask him if he smokes.

[Yu_Bum_suk]

It's a really, really tough one. As a smoker, let me say that I'm so glad I'm male. If you otherwise like your boss and job, I'd say try your best not to be seen smoking by anyone associated with the school. If your boss and job generally suck, don't worry about it.

[waynehead]

Another male smoker here. My advice is just don't be conspicuous about it. Go to the roof of your building, or the basement, or take a walk to the convenince store or something if you have to smoke. It's not fair, but it probably is a generally good idea for a woman to avoid smoking in front of kids in this culture. I'm not saying it's right, but it'll prevent problems down the line...

[Jizzo T. Clown]

The only stories I hear about the FT who was here two years ago are those centered around her being "dirty and smelly" because she smoked and wouldn't brush her teeth or wash her hands afterwards. Nothing about her teaching, rapport with students, etc...This coming from guys who smoke after nearly every class, and 3 or 4 cigs during lunch break. Of course none of the women at our PS smoke.

[ulmaeri]

I can't believe they complained that she didn't wash her hands. At my hagwon last year, I bet I could count on my two hands the number of students that washed their hands after using the bathroom. The bathrooms for the students had no soap or towels.

Most of the smokers would smoke in the bathroom so....

[PGF]