Korean Job Discussion Forums

nzbradly78 · Joined: 23 Mar 2009 Location: Czech Republic

Hi,

After a lot of thinking, my wife and I are looking into coming back to Korea to teach. We're coming back for the usual suspects: tackle debt and to try and get ahead a bit.

I'm really interested in teaching in public schools (elementary specifically) as I'm a certified teacher here in New Zealand. I'd really like to live in Siji, Daegu where most of my friends from way back when live. Can anyone pass along advice on what is entailed with teaching in the Korean school system (i.e. curriculum, out of class responsibilities, salary & benefits expectations and hours)? Also, who would I best contact to inquire about such a position.

The next part is a bit more tricky, but how much should I expect to pay in rent for a two-bedroom setup? We've got two youngsters and, yeah, a studio might not quite cut it!

PRagic · Joined: 24 Feb 2006

Bringing two kids here now? With the goal of paying off some debt? Now? While teaching public school? Things must be pretty tough in NZ.

Fact is, even with lower rents in the area you're looking at, inflation is happily setting in over here. Health care can run you, even with insurance, especially, knock on wood, should anyone in your family need more than simple outpatient care. With two incomes, even if you'd be working legally (or illegally, for that matter) on the side, you'd still be lucky to sock away enough to pay down any serious debt over the short term.

Just chiming in with my 2 cents, but if I were in your shoes, I'd be thinking of other options if at all possible.

Skippy · Joined: 18 Jan 2003 Location: Daejeon

Well being a certified teacher will help. I think your EPIK pay level will be pretty nice. But why not look harder and get out of the comfort zone that is Siji-dong.

nzbradly78 · Joined: 23 Mar 2009 Location: Czech Republic

PRagic,

I'm not sure where you are coming from. When we left Korea in 2006 after three years, my wife and I saved alot, enough to pay tuition and moving plus six months of not having to work. I know we're not going to save as much this time around, but it will be more than we are now.

Who would I contact for work in a public school? EPIK? I'm looking at coming after December, so that I can finish the school year here. I know its aways away, but we need to get ourselves organised, passports renewed and all that jazz.

Thanks for your help!