Korean Job Discussion Forums

Mark7 · Joined: 22 May 2006

Hi,

I'm new to this forum, but I've been reading many of the posts lately and doing research on this job. I'm a senior in college and going to get my degree in Economics. I have also been taking Korean as an elective, and before school was over, my Korean teacher gave me this flier for EPIK programs as another opportunity to do something interesting before I get into the real work world.

I thought it would be a neat idea to teach in Korea for a year, because I can continue to learn Korean, and ultimately it would give me a chance to visit my relatives who live there.

However, the only problem is that I should have graduated now, but I'm a little behind; so I'm graduating this December. Is there any possibility I could find a job in Korea after December after I graduate, or do I have to wait until the hiring season begins again? Any advise would be appreciative.

Also, what are some other things I should keep in mind when looking for jobs in Korea?

Thanks.

Hater Depot · Joined: 29 Mar 2005

'Hiring season' runs 24/7/365. Unless you want to aim for a public school, in which case you will have to wait until February or March to start. No big deal.

sonshine20 · Joined: 17 Nov 2005

That's perfect timing, really!!

Homer · Guest

Also, what are some other things I should keep in mind when looking for jobs in Korea?

You might want to start by not looking at a job here as not in the real world work universe Laughing

That might help you out a bit if you do end up working here. Laughing

All jokes aside you need to figure out what you want in a job, what you can expect considering your credentials (You have no outstanding credentials if you have a B.A. in Economics as it is not ESL related) and experience (teaching related). Then figure out what the avg rate is for inexperienced, fresh grads coming over to teach. This will give you a ballpark idea of what you can expect.

You also need to figure out where you want to end up (City, smaller town) and what level you wish to teach (kids or adults). An open mind is a must as well!

You will also need:

A notarized copy of your diploma. That means you need your original diploma before you apply. Without this = no work visa and no job.

Sealed transcripts. That means transcripts sent to immigration by your school in sealed envelopes with the University seal intact. You can also have the Uni sent these to you and you mail them on without opening them.

A valid passport.

A set of passport sized pictures for your visa application.

Best of luck man.

Mark7 · Joined: 22 May 2006

When I look at fliers or ads about these jobs, they all say, or most of them say, "any degree is fine" but honestly, how many teachers are out there in Korea that do not have ESL related degrees?

Also, what are the best places to apply to if I don't have "credentials," such as ESL?

Thanks.

Homer · Guest

Mark7 · Joined: 22 May 2006

If not I'm not elgible for EPIK (since their program begins this fall, which I'll be finishing up my last semester), what are some other firms and websites that recruit teachers?

Also, I saw you were joking that I should look for a "real job" first, to say to that I am looking for a real job, its just that if things don't work out, I might want to do something off hand before settling down.

Homer · Guest

My joke was related to the fact that you seemed to see teaching in Korea as something to do until you get into the real working world.

This approach is likely to land you flat on your face here thats all I was saying.

As for EPIK...why would you be unable to apply?

They recruit in the spring for September placements.

bobbyhanlon · Joined: 09 Nov 2003 Location: 서울

if you go to a standard hakwon (institute), its best if you don't view it as a really serious job. the fact is, they will take almost anybody.
when i first came over, i had been offered a job in a run-of-the-mill hakwon; i came with the intention of really helping the kids, making them speak great english, and so on.. like you, before i got my job, i also worried- i'm not experienced- so can i still get a job? don't i need a degree related to teaching? etc etc.. however, when i got here, i was pretty shocked to say the least.
serious money is made in this business (by the owners) but that does not mean that this is a serious business. of course there are good schools out there, but by and large, they'll take anybody- and if you come here with a real interest in educating the kids, you'll most likely be disappointed when you find that about 90% of other teachers, school owners, and the children themselves, don't give a rat's @ss about it!
anyway don't let that discourage you. i'm no longer a teacher, but korea is still a great place to live and work, as far as i'm concerned.

ttompatz · Joined: 05 Sep 2005 Location: Kwangju, South Korea

Mark7 · Joined: 22 May 2006

Thanks guys for the help and the feedback, if you have more, give me more about your experiences, so I can keep a straight perspective.

Well, if you say EPIK takes rolling placement for January/February, where can I apply? I am highly interested in the position.

Thanks.

Mark7 · Joined: 22 May 2006

In fact, any other sites or places where I can find work that you know that have good reputations and recruit anybody, please give them to me.

Thanks.