Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Sethro]

Hi! I was hoping some of you could share the benefit of your experiences with me. I am currently in the process of job hunting and my recruiter told me about a position in a public elementary school in Gunpo. I said I was interested and she sent my info to the school. Since then, the school (this is without offering me the position) has asked me to provide a letter of reference from my current co-worker and a letter from my doctor saying I don't have swine flu. haha. Whatever. Now they are asking for a phone interview, although I already did one with the recruiter.
I inquired about all of this, and the recruiter said that the school is trying to be very careful because their last teacher took off in the middle of the year. Now, I can understand trying to be careful, but being made to jump through all these hoops is making me wonder about the working conditions. Perhaps the teacher was somewhat justified in leaving mid-year?
After all this, my question is: Is going through all of this before being offered a position the norm? From what I have read, getting hired is kind of a simple procedure. You speak English, you get a job. I am a school counselor with a MA in counseling psychology, it's not like I am some kid with no working/school experience. Again, I'm just not sure if what I am being asked to do is normal, or this school is a tough place to work. I would appreciate any insight! Thank you!

[Ukon]

I know people who live in Gunpo...they say it sucks ass and they all want to leave pronto...Go with SMOE and stick to Seoul or find another city to go with GEPIK.

Again, I've heard zero good things about Gumpo from foreigners AND koreans...It makes Inchon and Pohang sound nice from some of the stories I've heard....

[Sethro]

Hi! Thank you for your input. It's not like I am in love with the idea of going to Gunpo or anything, although from the research I've done online it seems nice, especially the Sanbon section where the school is. I am a bit older, so it's not like I am looking to go out every night and drink, etc., so occasional visits to Seoul will be fine for me.

My question was more about what was required of me by the school. Is this normal to have to submit a reference from a co-worker and a swine flu letter and another phone interview? I know the normal packet of info that needs to be sent contains medical self-check and two references, but is asking for this additional information unusual?

Thank you again for taking the time to respond!

[Ukon]