Korean Job Discussion Forums

BigBlackEquus · Posted: Sat Jan 28, 2006 3:45 pm Post subject:

Congrats! Why type of job is it? Hagwon? Public school?

jaganath69 · Joined: 17 Jul 2003

World Citizen · Joined: 21 Jan 2006

It's in a hagwon. The director sounds very nice. I am told by current teachers that he is very fair. I am happy!

PRagic · Joined: 24 Feb 2006

Hi. I think it's terrible that someone with your background and qualifications isn't having more luck landing a position in Korea. I've been here around 12 years, so I'll put in my 2 cents. Basically, you don't fit into the 'system' very well as the system exists now.

1) You are considered 'too old' for institute positions, but I wouldn't let it get you down. These places care more about business than about education, and are usually run by infamously inept and xenofobic management. Also, you have a lot of experience. Institutes tend to hire the pliable, particularly if they don't have the education and experience to demand better conditions. In a nutshell, they like to employ foreign teachers that need the job; they cater to dependence.

2) Your age doesn't necessarily reduce your chances of working for a univeristy, but your unfinished MA does. Better universities here insist on their teachers having a completed MA. Lower-tiered universities do accept applicants with only BAs, but tend to hire those with significant experience IN KOREA. Yes, you do have an impressive list of professional accomplishments, but a Korean university will most probably not view them as being relavent.

Your best bet, although in my opinion not the best source of employment in Korea, is to go the public school route. After you do a year, try again for a university position. If you have the time or inclination, finishing up the MA would be helpful as well.