Korean Job Discussion Forums

[twavelingteacher]

I took a job at a private school. Havent been paid and it has been exactly eight weeks since my contract started. I am supposed to be paid monthly. Evidently the school manager does not think the contract has to be followed. Some of the other teachers havent been paid yet either. When I talked to the manager he promised to pay me this week but hasnt. He also makes me feel guily when I ask. I have been extremely patient. I also get paid in set dollars so I know he is paying me alot now because of the currency exchange. I am giving it another week then dont know what to do. I cant leave without the money because I am strapped financially.

Do you think I am being overly patient here and stupid.

[losing_touch]

You are in Korea, but you are being paid in dollars as an English teacher? This should have been your first red flag. I browse the job listings daily along with this forum, and I have not seen such an arrangement on offer. At any rate, I would just show up to school and not work until I got paid. If that doesn't work, then head to immigration and get your exit order.

[Nemo]

Don't let them stall any longer for a better rate/time to pay you.

If you continue to work, you're leaving yourself open to having worked for free if they decide to suddenly can you (for no other reason but to rip off the foreigner).

[PRagic]

You have three choices.

1) Go with the flow, but tell your boss that the exchange rate is just going to get worse! You need to be paid.

2) Give notice according to the terms of your contract and then take the SOB to the labour board. You'll win.

3) Cut your losses and just run. However, given the terms of your payment, that would probably make your boss happy.

[PRagic]

One more option, though with more risk:

Stop teaching. Wait at your apartment for them to call. Tell them that you'll teach when they pay, and not a minute before. Of course, the culture will then dictate that the boss will try to screw you over at every single turn for the remainder of your contract.

You're basically banking on the fact that it's too difficult for him to get another teacher. He needs you more than you need him.