Korean Job Discussion Forums

[allyisyo]

I am trying to navigate my way through the job seeking process from abroad. I am weighing the positive and negative aspects of the city/country/town atmosphere. One thing I did not think of before searching around on this discussion board is the quality of accommodations.

Does anyone have any practical advise about learning the quality of the accommodations before you arrive? I am presently considering a position in Jamsil-dong, in Seoul. I have read horror stories about roaches and apartments that are falling apart when unsuspecting foreign teachers arrive. I don't need or want anything fancy, but I do want somewhere safe and clean!

Suggestions? Should I address this with my recruiter or the school?

Thanks in advance,
Alice

[Louis VI]

Accommodations in small communities often are HUGE, I mean, two and three bedroom apartments for one teacher! And commute times are in the single digits instead of pushing an hour.

[climber159]

If you go with a public school (SMOE, GEPIK...) you'll, more likely than not, end up in a very livable apartment. They will also probably not be able to send you photos of the apartment prior to your arrival as they probably don't know which school you'll be at until after you arrive.

If you go with a hagwon, then the quality of the apartment could vary more widely. Your best bet is to get in contact with some of the other foreign teachers at the hagwon. They'll either be able to provide you with photos of the apartment you'll be taking over or give you a description/photos of their apartments. If the boss refuses to put you in contact with the other teachers, then you shouldn't sign with that hagwon.

[allyisyo]

Thanks!

I do think getting in touch with current teachers is a sound idea.

Also wondering, does anyone have advise on the Jamsil area? I only found one post on Dave's Boards about it, and it simply said there are many hagwons there.

What is the likelihood of getting an apartment near your school if you are teaching in the city?

~Alice

[keebler812u]

Jassil is a nice area with a lot to do and of course a baseball stadium really close. As far as housing goes most of the people I knew in Korea had a decent place, small but clean. Ask for pictures though for sure. Getting in touch with the foreign teachers can be a double edged sword. They may tell you its great, so they don't have to pick up extra hours if a teacher is not placed. I would post on here about specific schools. I had an unpleasant experience with my first school GKI-Mokdong, but had an awesome experience with Herald School. Overall my experience in Korea was awesome and I would not trade it for anything. Good luck hunting.

[Louis VI]

City? Too big, too polluted, and too crowded to live and do long commutes in.

Country? It'd better be beautiful and have express buses to a city for shopping and entertainment getaways on odd weekends.

Town? Ah, just perfect if within an hour or two of a city and beaches.