Korean Job Discussion Forums

morningmimi · Joined: 10 Feb 2009

I have a job offer from NorthRidge school in Anyang. I would really like to take this job. I have talked to someone who is there and he said he loves it and never had a problem with the school. I had someone look at the contract and there a few things that aren't so good, but nothing that scares the crap out of me (like the SLP contract)

HOWEVER, I am still and the states and I don't have all my visa documents ready yet. And the owner says she needs me by March... she said I could bring all my documents with me and once I get to Korea she'll send me to Japan to get my visa.

I have never heard of this happening before... is this strange? is there something really bad that could happen to me by doing this?

Also, the owner goes through a private health care company and pays 100% of it. The teacher who is already there said; "This company has better benefits. If you get sick or have an accident insurance is covered and you will receive compensation for any missed days." But should I be worried about this?

Thanks for any help you can give me![/quote]

cruisemonkey · Posted: Tue Feb 17, 2009 10:44 pm Post subject:

It's possible for you to enter K-land on a tourist visa and do an E-2 'visa run' to Japan if you get your degree verified by the KCUE once you are here.

Do not work until after you come back from Japan with your E-2 visa.

Do not come to K-land unless you receive pre-paid airfare!

Missihippi · Joined: 22 Oct 2007 Location: Gwangmyeong

This sounds fishy, i'd turn it down unless you are desperate to get over here. If you take it, do as the above poster mentioned.

ontheway · Posted: Wed Feb 18, 2009 7:31 am Post subject:

This sounds like an employer who is not paying into the pension fund. Sure, you get 100% insurance, but you're not on the government plan which means they don't notice you when you're not enrolled in Pension either. This also means that your boss will possibly be pocketing any tax deductions he makes as well.

You should pass on this one.

In general, you should not come to Korea without your E2 vias anyway. Many teachers have found themselves working illegally without a visa and unable to say no while waiting for a visa run.

Get your E2 visa before you come.

As to airfare. The best schools do not pay airfare in advance. They will, however, reimburse you upon arrival. If you insist on airfare in advance you may miss out on the best jobs. Some recruiters are willing to front the airfare, however it's become too risky due to bad teachers who fail to turn up, let tickets expire or use the flight for a free ride. Public schools and the best private schools and hogwans no longer prepay airfare.