Korean Job Discussion Forums

[BigRedJ]

My girlfriend and I are planning to teach in Seoul sometime in the near future but at different institutions because since we have different qualifications. I will be looking for a University position as I have a Masters degree and TESOL certification but she is hoping to teach Kindergarten.

We want to live together but we aren't sure about the best way to go. Someone suggested that I accept my position first and then she would find something close by. It was also suggested that she negotiate for a higher salary as she won't be requiring housing. I realize the typical Korean single/studio apartment is quite small and we are expecting that but would it really be unlivable for two people?

If housing is provided for on campus is there any chance you can request larger or couples accommodations? I have heard about some campuses having very strict rules and uptight security but are there rules against having two occupants in single housing on campus or anywhere else for that matter? If looking for off-campus hosing in Seoul, what is the typical monthly rent? Also I am not entirely sure of the key money system so if anyone can explain that to me it would be much appreciated. Any other insights or experiences in this regard would also be appreciated.

Please forgive me if this topic has been addressed in a different post as I am new to these forums.

Thank you for your time.

[polonius]

Key money is when you put down a deposit of anywhere between 3,000,000~10,000,000. Then you would pay rent on top of that. The key money you will get back at the end.

It depends on where you live in Seoul and how big of an apartment you get. In the North East part of Seoul, where I am, you can put down 5,000,000 and pay 500,000 per month to get a 15 pyeong apartment. (1 pyeong = 3.3 square meters)

The closer you are to downtown, or ritzy neighbourhoods, the more key money and rent you will have to pay.

The single studio apartments can be really small, and I highly caution you against getting into one of these. You really need a place where the 2 of you can be alone. You may have the greatest relationship, but sometimes, you just need your own space.

I can't speak on the housing offered by Universities, I think it might vary from Uni to Uni. I did hear that they are quite small though.

You might want to both start looking for jobs, and try to aim for the same neighbourhood. The housing a hagwon might offer could be suitable for the 2 of you. Ask for pictures of the apartments. If they don't have any, ask the size. Either of you can ask for a housing allowance. Housing allowances range from 300,000~500,000 won.