Korean Job Discussion Forums

KoronoXyl · Joined: 27 Jun 2008

I was planning on working in Korea after graduation, and now I'm thinking that I'll try this program out first. I'm assuming that most of the people hired will be working out in the country; I don't mind that. Because of what I've read here, I'm expecting some problems, but I think that it's a good opportunity to get some experience in ESL work.

Overall, I'm really excited about getting to Korea, and I want to make it there ASAP. Do any of the more experienced teachers have some advice? Do you think that the completion of this program would have any worth in the eyes of a hakwon employer?

Oh, and I do plan to continue my college work online for the duration of the contract (6 months).

BS.Dos. · Joined: 29 Mar 2007

Hagwons will employ anyone regardless of what they did or didn't do in the past. In terms of advice, just keep browsing on here. The bigger picture will start to appear after a week or so.

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

It is a brand new program and you are part of the first intake.

In my humble opinion, you would be better off completing your studies and then getting here on an E2.

I hope you have a great experience but from my personal experience with government programs in their initial stages you may find that it will end up being little better than indentured labor.

Learn to say the magic word, "NO" or prepare to get crapped on.

Bibbitybop · Joined: 22 Feb 2006 Location: Seoul

ttompatz is right, no one knows what to expect. Make sure their contracts are very clear and make sure you can easily ditch the program and go back home.

On the flipside, if you do the TALK program and want to return to Korea in the future, you should be able to get a better position and better pay based on your experience in the TALK program.

I've talked with a person involved on the Korean side of the TALK program. They are expecting a lot of gyopos (Korean-Americans, Korean-Australians, Korean-________), so you may want to discuss your "interest in Asia and interest in Korea." Actually, mention what you've read about Korea and how it sounds wonderful, they eat that shit up here.

KoronoXyl · Joined: 27 Jun 2008

Wow, thanks for all of the advice. I do actually have an interest in Korea, which I did mention in my application. I really love their movies, though they have been sucking lately. Also, the whole ESL scene down there sounds interesting, like some kind of alternate universe.

I applied for the February position, and from what I understand, there will be one section before mine that starts in August. I'll be sure to check in on what the first wave of applicants has to say about the whole deal.

Thanks again!

Ramen · Joined: 15 Apr 2008

marlow · Joined: 06 Feb 2005

cruisemonkey · Posted: Fri Jul 04, 2008 6:31 pm Post subject:

Bibbitybop · Joined: 22 Feb 2006 Location: Seoul

KoronoXyl · Joined: 27 Jun 2008

marlow · Joined: 06 Feb 2005

wylies99 · Joined: 13 May 2006 Location: I'm one cool cat!

No one should be working LEGALLY, in Korea, for 1.6. Rolling Eyes

KoronoXyl · Joined: 27 Jun 2008

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

jangsalgida · Joined: 11 Jan 2006

Will you be working an "After-School Program?" Be sure to ask them whether you are considered an empoyee or an "Independent Contractor/Free Lancer."

If you aren't considered an employee, expect to be taxed up the butt. If you are paid per student/according to how many students you have, you will probably be considered an "Independent Contractor/Free Lancer."

They do this to E-2 Visa holders even though I believe it is illegal, and from what I understand you won't even be an E-2 Visa holder. Therefore, I don't think it will be illegal for them to tax you at a high rate. Be prepared to get screwed!