Korean Job Discussion Forums

[mgriffon]

Hello,

I�m currently searching for employment in Korea. I am married, but my wife will not teach English. Actually, she can�t as she is Czech.

First question:
We are wondering about being married affecting my chances of finding employment.
Would you recommend that I not mention I am married? I don�t want to hide the fact, but rather not actively publicize it during my job search.
Or do you think it might help to mention it?

The only requirement due to the fact I am married is single housing and as most positions offer such, I don�t think it should be a problem. I�m more worried about potential employers trashing my application off-hand if they see I am married.

Second question: (For those of you still with me.)
Healthcare. Does anyone know if it is possible to get coverage for spouses who are not working?

Thanks for any comments or advice.

PS. Dumping the wife to increase my chances is not an option!

[erlyn]

Hey, maybe you could check out this thread for more info:

http://www.eslcafe.com/forums/korea/viewtopic.php?t=4395&highlight=filipina+wife

[mgriffon]

Thanks for the tip. I've checked out that thread and numerous others a few days ago concerning non-teaching spouses.

I just didn't find any that dealt with how a potential employer might view the situation.

Also, I didn't find a specific answer to my health coverage question. It's been asked before, but I didn't find a response other than to ask the employer to put a spouse on your health coverage. Has anyone done that?

[justagirl]

My boss told me it was automatic. I have health insurance and my husband can use it. My husband is going to be working at my school soon and we asked about getting him the same coverage, but was told it wouldn't be necessary. If anyone else knows differently, let me know!

Also, one time I went with a friend to a clinic when I didn't have insurance and she did. They used her card for me--even at the pharmacy!

justagirl

[waterbaby]

Try the National Health Insurcance Corporation site for more info or try calling them direct.

I think a married couple (regardless of whether or not the partner was going to work) may sometimes be more attractive for a employer because a married couple may be more stable than a young graduate travelling OS for their first contract. So I don't think it's necessary to put it all over your resume or cover letter but I don't think it would hurt to mention it when you speak with them directly.

[blah]

Waterbaby is right. My boss loves that I am married. She even paid my wife's return airfare to Korea. She told me that Korean employers trust married teachers more because they tend to be more stable and family oriented -- they also pose less of a flight risk. My boss often gives my wife gifts of shampoos, body lotions etc. She always includes my wife on invitations to dinners, school parties, picnicks, etc.

I would make it extremely clear that your wife will be with you. When enquiring about your apartment, make it clear that it will need to be suitable for a married couple. Remember, your job is temporary; your wife is forever. She is not to be hidden away. I would not accept any job that does no fully accept my wife.

I had a few worries of my wife being treated badly when I first arrived(she is a Filipina), but have subsequently been absolutely relieved at how wonderful my boss and staff have been towards her.

My understanding is that your medical covers you as well as all of your dependants -- this would include anyone on an F-3 visa attached to your E-2.

[mgriffon]

Thanks to all of you for the excellent advice and info.
Cheers!


PS. Blah, if your boss would like another married employee, I'll be available from the end of Jan.

[blah]

She has been talking about expanding. I don't know what her timeline is, but I will PM you if I find out anything.