Korean Job Discussion Forums

[roguefishfood]

So... my veterinarian is an awesome guy. He's a total sweetheart, fluent in English, works hard, great to my dog, and is endlessly helping me out and translating stuff for me. I feel like the most annoying customer ever and a burden.

Today, I drop off the pup for a groom, and he takes me in the back and says "I have two kids, can you do private lessons?" Obviously I have to apologetically explain that no, they could deport me if I do that, and I'm basically a scaredy-cat.

I feel horribly guilty now. I totally owe him a favor and I feel awful about having to say no. Is it legal to teach privates for free? I don't care about the money I just want to help this guy out. Is there any way around this? Anybody know an F-series visa person in Daegu who's wanting some business?

[young_clinton]

[sml7285]

[YTMND]

I regularly went out with a student and his family all the time. It was a great exchange. I got to see specific parts of Korea and not have to worry about directions or transportation. They got to talk with a native English speaker.

I wouldn't worry about it.

[schwa]

[northway]

[viciousdinosaur]

Myself personally, I turned down privates when I was on E2. Actually even on F2 it's problematic. I had to register with the board of education and the tax service. It's up to you what you want to do, but I'm just saying that in my case I saw the potential penalty (deportation, never to return) as too high of a risk, even if the chances are being caught are slim. Still you never know. It could be someone undercover, it could be a disgruntled customer turns you in, could be a jealous friend.

[YTMND]

[JustinC]

Hang on. It seems like everyone here is assuming the nice vet won't feel obliged to make a donation to the NET's favorite charity? Or give free care to their pet. Or take the NET out to the best dinner he/she will ever have in Korea.

I'm just spit balling here as I've been asked the same question and given the same answer, but the person doing the asking was much, much closer to my employer than a vet so I had no choice.

I've thought, quite a lot, about how to circumvent the rules regarding our teaching 'off the books'. I have come to the conclusion that if Korea allowed this its tax take would reduce considerably and the cost of housing, transport, infrastructure and health care would rise, some what. I want to continue living in a pleasant land and so I have to admit the kids learning in a hagwon that pays its taxes is better than my tutoring where I'd likely not pay any.

Still, you could take the little'uns out for a pizza.

[sml7285]