Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Caesar1313]

Hi, just got offered a job with Smoe for September I'm just wondering exactly what the apartment will come furnished with. Will I have to buy plates, glasses and utensils? If anybody can give a good breakdown of what the places come with and lack, it would be appreciated thanks.

[wings]

There are some things listed in your contract, I think: TV, bed, air con stove. Apart from that you might get a place with everything you need or you might have nothing. I was put in a place with nothing, but you do get a 300,000 settlement bonus to help you pay for all the things you need to buy.

[Bibbitybop]

Some schools buy you the dishes, towels, etc. that you need. Other schools don't and you are expected to use the 300,000 won one-time living allowance that you receive when you get here.

Also, find the posts about the Co-op Residence at Dongdaemun Stadium. If you don't like those conditions, demand not to be placed there.

[Mr. BlackCat]

Out of my own experience I would suggest the following:

You probably won't know where you're teaching until you get here. Regardless, ask you recruiter about housing. If they give you an email or phone number to contact, ask that person. Say you're considering getting your own place, but you want to know what they're offering. you probably won't get a satisfactory answer, but just get the documentation.

The reason I say this is because in the contract is says, "After discussion about your housing you have to keep it" (paraphrasing, obviously). Many people I've met in SMOE haven't been happy with their housing (some have, though) but they're stuck in it because of this clause. Personally, I was placed in a box of a closet and protested. I was able to find my own place in small part because I tried to email my co-teacher before I got here about my housing but got no response. To me, that counted as an attempt at a discussion about my housing. Thus, I never agreed to it. Also, I made my feelings clear right when I walked in (diplomatically, of course).

Cover all your bases. Forks and plates are the least of your worries. But maybe not. Positive thoughts!