Korean Job Discussion Forums

[DanzigMFer]

I've been reading conflicting things here regarding a possible drug/urine test administered during the health screening you get upon entering Korea. Can someone who has moved to Korea recently tell me if it is standard practice to test for THC? Also why would they specifically want English majors if 90% of them will just be turned away at the gate? I might need to delay my move for another week or so...

[furtakk]

I *think* the urine test is only for aids because it was clearly written 'AIDS' on the cup when I took it, but don't quote me on that. Technically it's not an issue for immigration/visa purposes anymore, but if for some reason you test positive and your school sees it, then there may be trouble.

I was freaking out about failing it as well, but I passed. I stopped smoking about 6 weeks before leaving though.

[ppcg4]

Holy crap.

Search Google. Search the forums. This has been covered so many times.

Don't smoke pot for a couple of weeks before coming here, and certainly don't smoke pot while you're here. Just USE COMMON SENSE. This has been covered so many times that it's starting to become ridiculous.

[Forward Observer]

My friend works for the MOE here in Korea. As of September 1st, there will be no more tests of any kind. I don't have any links or proof, but don't worry about it - you can trust me...do all the drugs your hearts desire and come to Korea. No worries.

[Carla]

[Skippy]

Great another stoner!

Wow DanzigMFer your are saying 90 percent of English Majors are stoners or criminals. Wow you make English look so sexy because it is so DANGEROUS.

I think with most schools that when you get the medical check done the only do for opiates and other drugs like meth and steroids. There is usually no THC check, but that does not mean that you might NOT get a hospital that will included it par and course. Or even get a school that will demand a THC test.

In the end Detox and do not do drugs while in Korea. Heck even be careful if you go on Holiday to Thailand.

[DanzigMFer]

Thanks for the info furtakk - when was it that you moved to Korea?

To others: umm thanks but Im not really in need of obvious and/or vague advice like "use common sense" or "search the forums." Like I said, I've already been reading up on this. Im asking pretty please for some recent firsthand anecdotes because (1) it seems like immigration procedure is very time-sensitive and (2) because Im finding conflicting info; I would like to know my chances for ignominious deportation even after Ive run 8 miles a day to sweat this evil, evil poison out of my body.

[OnTheOtherSide]

Smoke some pot? Oh noooooo it's a terrible illegal drug. You're a stoner loser.

Get totally hammered off alcohol? Do it, it's perfectly legal and allright. All the rich and famous do it.

When will this illogical BS come to an end in this world? When will idiots quit buying into this philosophy? When will people rise up and demand an end to it?

[djsmnc]

I think the drug test topic should be made a sticky and all other new threads about it banned

[Buffalo]

[I'm no Picasso]

[I'm no Picasso]

P.S. -- If you've been reading up on this like you say, then you already know that:

1. Technically, they're not testing for it.
2. Sometimes they do test for it, anyway.
3. You can ask for the test to be omitted at the hospital.
4. If you do get tested, and the results come back positive and pass through your school's hands, that's not a good thing.

End of thread. How many times....

[OnTheOtherSide]

The problem is that Korea doess not have it WRITTEN DOWN anywhere.

What are the drug testing policies?
What are the disease testing policies?
What are the policies for criminal background checks?
etc. etc. etc.

It seems like we are always trying to figure this crap out by word of mouth and through recruiters. Why don't they just freakin write it all down somewhere online and keep it up to date?

[Skippy]

Hey, I gave you some general advice! As I commented that most of the times when you go for your medical check at the hospital for your Visa there will be NO THC/Cabanoid test. BUT there have been cases of hospitals just checking the box for the test and doing it. The government changed the rules about a year ago and when they did they didnt tell the hospital who continued doing the old way. Also, some schools will demand the test.

As everyone keeps commenting we seem to get one or two of these questions every bloody week.

So quit smoking weed, DETOX, and come to Korea. For the love of GOD do not smoke in Korea unless you can deal with the crap that will befall you if you get caught.

Another hint is beware of false positives. Many people who suffer from Asthma and take steroid based medicines have popped up positive. Take a look at your other (legal) drugs and see what may cause you problems in the future.

[DanzigMFer]