Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Korea Newfie]

Hello all,

My hogwan (at which my girlfriend and I have both been having serious problems) was recently sold, and the new director has been hounding us to sign a new contract. However, because he seems to be at least as bad a person as our old director, we're reluctant to sign it.

My question then is what are our obligations to this man? I've heard that when a school is sold, the contract is void, which would explain his wanting us to sign the new document. If it isn't void, then why does he want us to sign the new one? If it is indeed void, then are we free to simply walk out and never return, or must we obtain release letters? Finally, if we do need the release letters, can we demand that he give them to us now, or is it up to him?

What's the process here? Is there any other relevant information I should be aware of?

Thanks,
KN

[some waygug-in]

I am not sure exactly what the legalities are, but contact efl-law.com
for more complete information. As far as I know, you do not have any obligations to sign a new contract. When my hagwan was sold, the new owner just continued the same contract that I was already half way through. No problems.

If the new director is telling you that he wants you to sign a new contract, he is trying to con you. You don't have to, either your boss should honor the old contract or your employment is terminated.

Good Luck

[Holyjoe]

I think your old boss is the sponsor of your E-2 at the location registered (ie your school), so if the boss leaves then technically you're not sponsored to work at that school any more and your E-2 should be terminated.

Best bet is to check with EFL-Law though for definite advice.

[Derrek]

You'd better be getting some facts from immigration and EFL-Law fast...

If I remember correctly, my friend's contract was voided because her hagwon closed, and she had a week or two to leave the country -- you don't want to get caught in an overstay just because you didn't know about it.

Don't believe anything the new owner tells you. Or other people either. Find the information out from immigrations. Just go down there, take a number, and ask.

I would take this opportunity to look for a new job discreetly. Don't be pushed.