Korean Job Discussion Forums

[daycint]

So I'm sifting through the vast amounts of info provided by Recruiters & the EPIK website to try to fully understand the 'ins & outs' of how the system works. However, what I'm very curious about is the housing issue. I know it states 'free fully furnished single accommodation or housing allowance', but how 'free' is free?

I've also noticed on a few sites that compare the EPIK, GEPIK, etc. they all say the same as above, but with 'no key money support' in brackets beside it.

My question is this - If you choose to avail of the 'free' housing, are you responsible for key money or is 'free' actually free?

I'm sorry for my ignorance in this instance, as I've searched online for a few days now & can't seem to find an answer.

I'm really hoping to get a position with EPIK for August, but I'm wondering should I start saving now for key money....?

Many thanks in advance for any help given.

[sulperman]

Take their housing- free. (though you might have to pay some maintenance fee each month)
Take the allowance- pay your own key money.

[daycint]

thanks a million!

[espoir]

[daycint]

so, although all the info for EPIK says they provide the housing, the eventual contract says otherwise?

But is it correct to say then, that if you take the allowance you will probably get some key money? (although everywhere i look it says no key money support)

sorry to keep asking, i'm just confused now.

[wormholes101]

[espoir]

The contract makes no mention of it, but according to MOE guidelines they will provide a 5million won key money allowance. If your place only costs 4million won you don't get an extra 1million won though lol.

From what i've heard this is standard in every area, except Gangnam.

Along with the contract you will get a book that details exactly what you get. In the book it even goes so far as to list each and every one of the household furnishings that you will recieve (right down to a fork, spoon and knife)

[travelnguy]

I had no idea EPIK would pay key money. I had no problem with them letting me out of my small apartment mid-contract. But, I was responsible for my own key money.

[Weigookin74]

I can prob gaurantee you will be paying the key money 90% of the time. EPIK does not pay it. If you are lucky to have a kind local or district education office make an exception and pay the money, great! But most of us can't count on it. Either save the money up or get out of dodge....

I am curious where the MOE is since a poster said they have a policy to pay it.

Most of the time, teachers end up with crappy slummy one rooms because the local education office won't pay key and this is all they can find without a deposit. I live in a regional city and got a modern 12 pyeong one room (bigger than average) for 3 million deposit; which I think will be 10 million in Seoul for the same type of deal or smaller (10 pyeong). I get 400,000 for rent, but I pay only 300,000. So, I make an extra 100,000 in my pocket. Maybe, I'll pay more and upgrade to a two or three room next year.

[espoir]