Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Suwon4AGT]

Case in point:

-Small hagwon, mom and pop style
-Director pays salary on time
-Director provides apartment, the rental contract and electric bill is in her name

OK, now going on four months in a row, my electric bill hasn't been paid. After month 3, where the Korean landlord's wife came knocking on my door, handed me the bill, was clearly upset (muttering incoherent Korean) and made a "scissor" motion with her fingers, I gently confronted the director about the bill. Every month, I give the director the money, she is supposed to take care of the bill.

I keep getting stonewalled with "Oh I forgot". And I know this sounds like typical Bad Korean Boss behavior, but this person is truly the most forgetful person I have ever met. Of course, reading other posts around here, maybe this forgetfulness is really just more typical Bad Korean Boss behavior

I'm trying to think of the most tactful way of confronting the director. She has also neglected withholding taxes and providing health insurance (something I gently confronted her about a week ago).

I'm just soliciting opinions about what to do here. These small items are starting to add up. But I'm at the 6 month mark in a 1 year contract. I really don't want to go through the hassle of finding another job, doing another visa run. I plan on returning to the states in March 2010 and will not be returning (famous last words, right?...).

Your advice is appreciated!

[curiousaboutkorea]

you don't have health insurance?

From what I've seen (I'm only on my first contract), Bad Korean Bosses are very convenient forgetters. They "forget" if it works in their favor.

You've only confronted the boss once on the health insurance and the bill? Be polite and composed, but step up your game. Everyday, give firm but non-threatening reminders. If that doesn't work, go to/call the insurance office yourself. They'll help you take care of things. The labor board can help you with the withheld money for the bill.

Have you been getting money taken out of your salary for pension? If so, call the pension office and make sure it's been getting paid to them (check the amounts). If the boss hasn't been deducting it, call the pension office to get that set up as well.

[Suwon4AGT]