Korean Job Discussion Forums

[ttompatz]

[mnjetter]

I was told once (about jobs in general and not teaching specifically) that it's a good idea to try and dress at a formality level that is equal or slightly more formal than your immediate supervisor. At a school, since teachers and administrators have completely different functions, I would imagine this philosophy could translate to whoever the most senior teachers are, or if there's a head teacher who actually teaches classes.

[pattyb]

thanks.

This gives me a good idea of what I need to buy. Hopefully, I can get away with the "nice jeans" (not blue) as I have a lot of them.

[Perceptioncheck]

[Chaucer]

I always wear new-ish Gap/Dockers style pants, dress shirts and a tie. In many jobs, even kindy, I've been approached by owners, mothers, and departing teachers with offers of outside work. Not that I took it, private lessons are illegal, of course. Korea is a looks-conscious society. People cut foriegners slack on dress, but the respect gets cut at the same time.

[jeremydc808]

Great advice everyone, time to stock up on dress pants n shirts.

[jonpurdy]

[Ibsen]

[CPJ]

I always recommend that you wear a shirt and tie for the first month. It's always a good idea to make a good first impression.

After that, you can blend in with the other staff.

And don't buy much clothes either. You can find them very cheap in Korea unless you are really 'large'.

[Handsome Boy]

Bright Spongy yellow shoes and a Large red nose.

[Gorf]

Black jeans, fitted button-up shirt, shoes.

[NYC_Gal 2.0]

It does vary from school to school, but a nice pair of trousers and button-down shirt work just about everywhere (unless you work in a school that mandates a tie.) In warmer weather, a polo shirt is usually okay. Bring a few nice ties for just in case and you're set. Worst case, you wear the polo shirts when off duty. It's nicer than a ratty t-shirt.

If you can, check with the school beforehand.

[Whistleblower]

Just apply the common "dress for success" rule.

[Hank the Iconoclast]

At my uni, I wear a nice pair of trousers, button-down collared shirt, tie and dress shoes. For special occasions I wear a jacket (interviews predominately). Highly recommend a solid pair of loafers.