Korean Job Discussion Forums

[peterteacher]

What's the best way to apply for a specific public school position in a specific location?

On a recent visit to my wife's tiny farming village in Jangseong (Near Gwangju, Jeollanam-do) we stopped by her old elementary school and met briefly with some of the staff there... we even met the "native" English teacher... a very nice young man from South Africa who lives in Gwangju, and teaches there a few times a week.

The principal explained that the the town's population is significantly reduced from 30 years ago when my wife attended the local elementary school there, so the student population is 10 times as small (!).

We are hard working idealistic dreamers, so we are excited about the possibility of moving here, and living and working in this place where we have mostly just spent a few weekends, and holidays, etc. Maybe even persuade some of her family and friends with children to join us. We currently have no children.

There's a lot more to the story, so message me here if you're interested in hearing about our Kimchi Farm in Albuquerque, New MExico .

I have 2 years Hagwon teaching experience from about 5 years ago. So far EPIK doesn't seem interested in working with me on this, and I've lost touch with my contacts at the school.

Looking forward to your thoughtful replies, Peter

[surendra]

Many recruiters have many contracts. If the population shrunk, obviously less PS positions. So maybe broaden your search to include Hagwons? Again, recruiters are given the PS and Hagwon details prior (in my experience).

[YTMND]

[andrewchon]

My father is from JangSeung, north of Gwangju. I went there few years back to re-trace my 'roots'. They are right, the place has lost people. It's a sleepy retirement place now. Young people have gone to Seoul, just like my father did, 50 years ago.

[ttompatz]

If you want to apply to a specific school and you are "in country" then just go there and apply.

EPIK does the recruiting and manages the logistics for a number of POEs but they are not the final decision makers.

The principal and local POE / parents committee make those choices (whether or not to hire a foreign teacher for a particular school or Eup.

IF you are not "in country" then mail them directly (a bilingual letter/resume would be best).

The worst case, they decline your application and you are out the cost of a photo copy and stamp.

.

[Paddycakes]

[peterteacher]

Thanks for all your replies.

I didn't think of just applying directly by mail or even going back in person, once I am back in Korea and looking for work.

I'll start researching Visa options next. I suppose that if I enter as a U.S. tourist, then I'll be making a Visa run for E2 or whatever else I qualify for being married to a South Korean. Any suggestions?

-Peter