Korean Job Discussion Forums

LucyBRIS · Joined: 05 Jun 2006

I have a question about teaching in Korea. Forgive me if it's been covered already. I am teaching in Korea on a volunteer basis - that is I'm not being paid a wage or salary. Do I still need a VISA?

"Nationals of those countries which have visa waiver agreement with
Korea can enter without visas, on the condition that they should not
engage in remunerative activities during their stay in Korea.
- Korean Ministry of Forgein Affairs.

I can't seem to get a straight answer out of anyone! I don't have a bachelor's degree - but was told because I was volunteering my time as a specialist, rather than a teacher of english, I wouldn't need one.

Thanks for your help!

poet13 · Posted: Tue Jun 20, 2006 1:24 am Post subject:

volunteering? Shocked

Cerriowen · Joined: 03 Jun 2006 Location: Pocheon

I've been told that anything that i'm not getting paid for I don't need a visa for.

May I ask why the heck you're volunteering in KOREA? Why not some country that actually needs it, like Thailand, or Vietnam???

LucyBRIS · Joined: 05 Jun 2006

I'm volunteering in many places, Korea being one of them (to gain some experience in working with ESL learners). I just was unsure about having to get a visa for korea because the company is providing me with accomodation. Does that make it a renumerative activity?

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

VanIslander · Posted: Tue Jun 20, 2006 3:13 pm Post subject:

spliff · Joined: 19 Jan 2004 Location: Khon Kaen, Thailand

Koreans think we're stupid for working at such low salaries...they must get a real laugh at you! Very Happy

poet13 · Posted: Tue Jun 20, 2006 9:14 pm Post subject:

I think it's admirable that you volunteer, but I agree with the other poster that there are other places where volunteers are needed more.

dogshed · Joined: 28 Apr 2006

Could I get a volunteer teaching position working for a charitable organization in Korea. I'm willing to do it for a stipend to cover my expenses.

If I get a stipend for expenses and airfare then would the visa be an E2 even if the organization is charitable?

Is there some kind of designation like the 501(c)3 in the United States?

-Jeff

Yu_Bum_suk · Joined: 25 Dec 2004

If you're on a tourist visa and not getting paid you should be all right, as long as you're not at an institution (hogwan) where other teachers are teaching for cash.