Korean Job Discussion Forums

Ninebreaker · Joined: 16 Jan 2009

Hey dudes,

Long time lurker, first time poster. Here's the deal: I've been in Korea for two months now, and I am on a completely legitimate visa and have had my ARC for about a month and a week.

About a month ago my boss asked me for my diploma, but he did not give any meaningful reason for it but was quite insistent that it was necessary. About a week ago, I was drinking with some co-teachers and he asked me if it was here yet. (It's not here yet, although I do have it in the mail addressed to me at my flat).

My question is: Does my boss actually need my diploma? And if so, why? I "work" with another foreigner on a sister campus but I've only met him twice, and he dodged my "why" to him with "it's the law, why ask why". (Well, cos it's my diploma of course! Why wouldn't I ask why?)

A friend of mine in Korea advised that I do not need to give them my diploma, and common sense also dictates it isn't necessary, but if it IS necessary, can you please advise why that is the case and link it with a quality governmental source?

Cheers

Scouse Mouse · Joined: 07 Jan 2007 Location: Cloud #9

If he has your diploma, you can't take another job. He wants it so that you are handcuffed to his school. If he doesn't pay you, you can't quit! If he changes your working conditions, you can't quit! If he decided to move you from your apartment and onto his sofa, you can't quit!

Actually... you can quit, but you will need to go through all the crap of getting a new diploma.

At the end of 12 months, it could get 'lost' if you don't sign a new contract. Or you could find it comes back in less than pristine condition (Koreans can get a copy easily enough, so there is often no respect for them). He does NOT need it. If he needs to show it to the local Education office, a photocopy is good enough. Photocopy it and say that is what was sent.

Do everything you can to avoid giving it to him. Tell him your recruiter said it was not needed, and have him call them. If you used a reputable recruiter, they will back you up. If all else fails, call his bluff with "My mother paid a lot for my education, and she refuses to send the original. Is there anything you can do to help me stay working here?" He won't fire you Smile

DHC · Joined: 15 Jan 2003

As an E-2 visa holder you must also register with the local Dept. of Education. Usually , they ask to see the original diploma. You do not have to give your diploma to your boss. Instead, you can accompany him to the Dept. of Education where they will make a copy of your diploma and hand it back to you. Your boss has no legal reason for having your original diploma in his/her possession.

bluelake · Joined: 01 Dec 2005

Don't give it. Refer to the similar story on this forum:

http://forums.eslcafe.com/korea/viewtopic.php?t=155070

OculisOrbis · Joined: 17 Jul 2006

the only person that needed an original was the immi person who processed your visa - and even then a notarized copy would have been sufficient. NO ONE else needs an original - give out copies only. Never put your documents into the hands of others. If copies need to be made then YOU make them.

egrog1717 · Joined: 12 Mar 2008

I sent SMOE a really nice colour photo copy of my degree when they offered me my contract... It wasn't notorized or stamped by the consulate... They haven't asked for anything else... No reason why your boss would need it other than to chain you down (as other posters have suggested)

some waygug-in · Joined: 25 Jan 2003

Here's what to do... scan your degree and keep a copy on a hsb stick or take a digital photo and put that onto a file on a hard disc. You can copy both sides if there is any relevant info on the back.

Give the copy of that file to your boss, if he doesn't like it...too bad.

Tell him if there is any reason for you to show the original, you will bring it in on that day and take it home again.

He has no right or excuse to hold on to your degree.

I know a lot of hagwan bosses want to have your degree haning on the wall to show parents that you really have one.

If he wants to have a copy to show parents, he can print it out from the file. A color print would be better.

moosehead · Joined: 05 May 2007

would you give your employer back home your diploma?

thought so.

Ninebreaker · Joined: 16 Jan 2009

Thank you for the advice, guys.

Young FRANKenstein · Posted: Wed May 13, 2009 12:06 am Post subject:

If he's adamant about giving it to him, make a photocopy and give him the copy. but never never never never never NEVER EVER give him the original for ANY reason.

The only people who need it would be Immigration for the purpose of getting your visa. Once you have the visa there is NO reason to give it to ANYone, not even Immigration.

ChinaBoy · Joined: 17 Feb 2007

You should have multiple originals from your school. When anyone wants one, give it and don't worry about it because you've got many extras.

That way, the Korean saves face by getting the diploma, and you know it doesn't matter because you've got plenty of them in reserve.

bassexpander · Joined: 13 Sep 2007 Location: Someplace you'd rather be.

Young FRANKenstein · Posted: Wed May 13, 2009 4:29 pm Post subject:

Young FRANKenstein · Posted: Wed May 13, 2009 5:40 pm Post subject:

Guerciotti · Posted: Wed May 13, 2009 7:09 pm Post subject: