Korean Job Discussion Forums

[justin moffatt]

With all the recent rumours of a massive immigration crackdown on foreigners working in Korea, I wanted to sift through the misinformation out there and clarify a few issues while posing some questions:

1. I heard recently that over 250 foreigners were deported for engaging in employment without the proper visa documents (both full time and part time employment). Any truth to this claim?

2. What exactly is the status needed to engage in part time employment? Does one need permission submitted to immigration from the employer on one's visa?

3. Does anyone know someone who has been deported? If so, what is the process? How long do they have to leave Korea? Is the individual fined (how much)? Are they detained if the fine is not paid? Can they re-enter Korea again?

4. Another post claimed that some immigration locations outside of Seoul are less stringent and controlled when leaving Korea. If there any truth to these claims?

Disclaimer: It is important for me to completely understand the laws of any country that I reside in to prevent possible misinterpretations and misunderstandings. Any credible information and knowledge would be greatly appreciated.

[wylies99]

[wylies99]

Oh, and why the great concern, OP?

[Homer]

[ttompatz]

[justin moffatt]

Thanks again for the useful and informative postings. I find it extremely interesting that so many foreigners are willing to accept the risks mentioned for some extra money.

On the other hand, virtually every individual I have met in Korea has been pressured at one time or another to work (either temporarily or pemanently) for some form of institution without the proper documents needed for immigration (either promises of later processing or none at all).

My decision not to remain in this country is even more reinforced by these issues and concerns discussed.

[Homer]

Up to you moffatt.

You should know that many of us have not been pressured to work at other locations illegally. I know I have not.

However, had an employer done that, I would have refused and if that did not solve the issue then its notice and quit.

[justin moffatt]

I just heard recently that if one is deported that one cannot reenter Korea for over 5 years! Any truth to this? Seems pretty harsh for individuals engaging in temporary part time work. Some temporary jobs (even for one day) would be extremely difficult to get a letter of permission for. Any thoughts?

[Young FRANKenstein]

[Homer]

moffatt,

You may feel it is harsh but then again you are talking about someone breaking local laws.

[ajuma]

[Homer]

Very good point Ajuma as many people will come down hard on illegal workers back in their home countries but will somehow change their tune when they in turn are considering doing illegal work and could possibly face consequences.

[crazylemongirl]

The big reason to not teach privates for me, is that it's in my contract. I'm not allowed to teach outside the school without permission. Most teachers scream blue murder if a school violates their contract, so why do they feel they have the right to?

[Pak Yu Man]

We had one girl get caught. She was on a plane the next day.

Ask for part time work..that's why I love my F-2. The place I am at now give me more than enough overtime if I want it. Work down town for the university for 60k an hour teaching adults or go to some kids house for 40-50k. Duh. Which would you do?

[Homer]

CLG you make a very good point...but sadly it makes far too much sense!

You should know by now it is completely acceptable to teach illegal privates and break your contract but that it is completely unacceptable for your school to even change or to work a little outside your contract.