Korean Job Discussion Forums

[saram_]

Ok..So I have all my documents in hand..
Original Degree,
Transcripts Sealed with College Stamp,
Criminal Check (Apostilled),

Do ye think I am better off going to Korea on a tourist Visa and finding teaching jobs while there or am I better off getting a job before I go? There don't appear to be too many jobs there at the moment!

The only advantage (although it is quite a big one) of finding one while here is that my air-fare will not be paid for if I find work while in Korea..

I will have a place to stay in Central Seoul while looking for jobs there which is a big plus for going over on a tourist Visa...

It is still possible to go over there on the Tourist Visa and then make the Visa-Run, Isn't it?

Anybody have any views what would work better..

Thank You..

[rationality]

[Some of the Mothers Said]

I have done both, and if you want to get a job from a distance just do a little homework. Google the name of the school that's interested in you, and if nothing bad pops up, you will probably be ok. Recruiters will say anything to get you to sign sometimes, so don't let them pressure you into a job if you're not sure. There are still plenty of jobs about, (although you might not think it going on some of the posts on Dave's) so my advice to any Newb (if you are) is just take your time and find a decent company that will pay you on time.

From Korea, you can check out the school, and ask questions to other teachers if you get the chance. Some teacher's will slam the school, but you may love it. Others will love the school, but you may hate it.
Red flags:
1) Not being paid on time.
2) A high turn over of foreign staff, if the staff is under four people, and the school has been in business for more than five years.
3) New Hog-won's. You have a good chance the school may fail within the first year or two, but sometimes, the school is great, clean, and the owners are happy to see you. Be prepared for lots of drinking!
I've worked in Korea since 1999, and I agree with Rationality that if you can come it would be better, but I personally have never had a problem landing a good position from afar. If you're thinking about a Public school job, (or any job really) read the contract very carefully, as well as check out when the Public school's are hiring people. (Basically all year) Within the contract you will find answers to your visa run, and air ticket refund questions. Each school can be very different from another so
happy hunting!

[saram_]

Cheers I think I will go over with the documents in hand around mid August and hope to secure a job in a couple of weeks there!!

Not too many great jobs listed at the moment. Most are ASAP!! Being in Korea will sort that prob out..

Regards!