Korean Job Discussion Forums

Hak · Joined: 14 Nov 2006

I was after some advice because i seem to be struggling to deal with this dilema myself.I have never worked overseas and have just received a offer to teach in some agricultural town in South Korea.I have resighned from my job and hastily I applied for any job i seen.It has now occured to me that maybe it may be to much of a cultural shock for my first job.i have also strated to think that although the job seems quite good is it wise to take the first job offered? Can i not find a job in Korea quite easily anyway? Should i feel rushed to make a decision in a day?Also i have a desire to teach in a INternational school and i feel i may have the qualifications is it better to attempt this before i take a job in a town?
I realise that these are all questions that i should probably tackle but because its my first job overseas and i have a day to decide any some Wisdom that anyone can give would be great. Are these relevant concerns or just cold feet!

ChopChaeJoe · Joined: 05 Mar 2006 Location: Seoul

It sounds like you're not ready for this job yet. Read up some more, talk to people, make a decision when you're more confident of what you're doing.

But it's all a crapshoot here anyways.

princess · Joined: 16 Jan 2003 Location: soul of Asia

I'd be afraid to go to an agricultural town!

Son Deureo! · Joined: 30 Apr 2003

Small town life in Korea can be tough, but some people fall in love with it. For a new teacher, it would probably be easier to start in a larger city.

There's no particular reason to jump on the first job you get offered. ESL jobs are plentiful here, especially for teaching kids, and doubly so if you have any qualifications.

As for teaching in international schools, it's my understanding that you are usually expected to have teaching qualifications from your home country in order to do so, and yes the conditions are much better than your typical hogwon.

Go and read the FAQ, that would be a good place to get some basic information and allay, or confirm, some of your fears.

Good luck.

Green Tea · Joined: 04 Nov 2006

I think you would have a lot more fun in a big city. Seoul or Busan are the only places I'd consider. But then again, if you like quiet atmosphere and nature, maybe a village would be better for you.

If you are having trouble finding a good offer, keep looking! Try Craig's List. The recruiters on there seem to offer better wages.

mateomiguel · Joined: 16 May 2005

there's like 30 new jobs posted every day, there is absolutely no reason to rush a decision to come here. In fact, I'd say that watching the job posting trends for a month or two would be a much better idea, then you can really know what's out there and make an informed decision.

Yu_Bum_suk · Joined: 25 Dec 2004

Don't rush and don't jump into anything until you've had the opportunity to communicate with previous employees of the school in confidence.

Pak Yu Man · Joined: 02 Jun 2005 Location: The Ida galaxy

In Korea don't rush into anything. Well except relationships.
And marriage. Other than that Smile

Hak · Joined: 14 Nov 2006

Thanks guys
I was also thinking that i was rushing into it a little.I found out that the town is close by to another which has some social life but i dont think that will influence my decision.I have had a look around and the 2.5 million Won is quite good compared to the other pays or is that normal as I do have a Masters from an Australian Uni.I have resighned and am getting a little worried but i still have some time on my hands and according to your posts there should be other oppurtunities.
Thanks