Korean Job Discussion Forums

[kojo0501]

I am a 24 year-old American male with a Bachelor's degree in English: Emphasis Creative Writing. Though I am completely sober now, when I was 19 I had a run-in with the law. I was arrested and convicted for a felony offense; possession of controlled substance: heroin. I was also convicted of three misdemeanors; intoxication in public, possession of paraphernalia, and possession of marijauna (under an ounce). I no longer use drugs and can pass all urinary anaylsis tests. I'm not on probation or parole; I served 8 of a 16 month sentence. These non-violent offenses are the only crimes I have ever been arrested/convicted for. It has been over 3 years since my conviction, and I am currently serving in Americorps VISTA, working in a corrections facility.

I'm wondering if I can still teach abroad. I have an English Bachelor's and am looking for new experiences. Given past experiences trying to find employment with a felony, I have come be somewhat jaded. Will I be discluded from teaching based on my criminal record? Can I even get into Japan/S. Korea/China with a felony? Does anyone know people with felony drug convictions that are teaching abroad (and in what countries)? Are there certain countries I cannot get into? I know S. Korea (as a nation) has mandatory background checks, but I don't understand the implications of those background checks (regarding employment). Do China and Japan also have mandatory background checks for visitors? Do the employers typically even look into backgrounds? How much does it vary from employer to employer, whether my record is of any importance (if they look into it)? Is it possible that because my crime wasn't sexual/violent/victim-based, that it would be tolerated?

[CentralCali]

I'm fairly certain that a felony drug conviction will nix your chances of getting a work visa for Korea.

[proustme]

You won't be allowed in. A clean criminal record is necessary to get an E-2 visa, at least here in Korea. Damn, heroin.

[runthegauntlet]

No chance in S. Korea.

[D.D.]

Less than 0 % for South Korea. No problem for China and countries without a criminal record check.