Korean Job Discussion Forums

[chrisbem1]

OK, need some help. Here's the situation:

Last week I agreed to extend my contract at my current hogwon until the end July (my current contract expires at the end of March). This week, the hogwon decided to extend the hours of all of the foreign teachers from about 23/week to 28/week. This increas still falls within the 120 hours/month contract that we are all signed to, but is way more than the "average" number of work hours in a week for most teachers.

My question is, since I agreed orally to extend, am I stuck? I did specify when we discussing an extension that I was happy with everything the way it was, and I would be happy to stay if everything stayed the same. Seeing how they have made some changes, it doesn't really seem like the conditions that I set out have been met, but Korean laws......

Anyway, has anyone dealt with this before? And if so, what is the legal position that I'm in? Again, nothing has officially been signed. The hogwon has generally been pretty good about things over the year, and I don't really have any complaints, I just don't want to work that much, and don't really need to if I can get out of the situation without too much trouble.

[J.B. Clamence]

I don't think you're stuck at all. Your contract finishes more than a month from now, and you just told them last week that you plan to stay. I don't think it's unreasonable to change your mind now, especially as your departure date is so far away. Just tell your boss as soon as possible (like, today) that you changed your mind. He has plenty of time to find a new teacher.

[prairieboy]

As I understand Immigration's requirements, for an extension of 3 months to your E-2 to cover this time, you'd need to take a copy of the new or extended contract with you before the extension will be granted. So, if it's an oral agreement you are free and clear.

But get someone to call Immigration and ask what is necessary for a 3 month extension to your E-2, just to cover your bases.

Cheers.

[kangnamdragon]

All extension agreements must be in writing. You are free to leave.

[sadsac]

Pack your bags. If it isn't in writing, it doesn't exist. Your current contract finishes in March and that is when you finish. It may put your current bosses nose out of joint, but they will get over it eventually.

[ratslash]