Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Oliver]

Hi all,

Just thinking. I am due to be in korea in little under two weeks. The appeal of the job for me is not only the way of life and culture, but the fact that you feel important and looked after by your employer, as well as doing something that is enjoyable.

I was wondering, do any of you feel that the fact that you are welcomed by your employer is something that is missing in Western notions of employment today?

Cheers,

Ollie

[jbpatlanta]

Would you like us to burst your bubble now or wait until later?

[Oliver]

haha, nah, wait till later. I've nae landed yet!

[losing_touch]

Oh boy, this one might be an eye opening experience for you!

[frankhenry]

hahahaaaaa haha ohhh haaha (slapping knee) hahahaha (cola spewing from nose) hahaha (tears coming from eyes) hahahahahahahah ohhh eheee (cough cough) hehe

[Tobias]

[kiwiluvesyew]

I'm thinking the original poster must be being sarcastic?

Bring your own lube!

[Dodgy Al]

There are many variables, which constantly change. Co-workers, co-teachers, manager(s), housing, social life - all of these things can make or break your time in Korea. Try to ignore the cynicism on this thread, and the chances are you'll have a great honeymoon period (three to four months is my estimate). If you end up getting screwed in some way, post here, or search the forum for advice. People can be very helpful when they want to be.

Once the honeymoon is over, be realistic about where you are and what is expected of you. Sit down and think about what you want to achieve for the rest of your time in Korea, whether it's saving, or securing another (hopefully better) job. This will give you something to aim for.

And don't drink too much soju!

Just my tuppence worth. Good luck.

[Otherside]

I felt like an asset at both the Hagwon and the Public school I worked at.

At the hagwon, it was clear I was nothing more than a piece of property owned by said Wangjangnim. (An asset nonetheless )

At the public school, I actually do feel important and that my employer gives a damn about me, and it is a very positive feeling.

[Yu_Bum_suk]

I'm going to go against the flow and say that my school does make me feel very valued. However, at my first job I felt much more like a tool than an asset.

[ttompatz]

[Yu_Bum_suk]

[Draz]

I didn't even feel like a tool at my old job. It wasn't good enough for that.

At my new job I feel like a valued employee, just like back home.

[cruisemonkey]

Olly... you're in pre-honeymoon phase!

At my first job in K-land when I arrived, the 'K-boss' ran out into the parking lot during a torrential rain storm, threw his arms around me and told me he "loved me". He was/is a twit!

My public school does make me feel appreciated (the principal shows it by giving me extra holidays); and, in over a year, as far as I can tell, I'm treated like a 'real' (K) teacher.

[laogaiguk]

Have you ever worked at any profit orientated company before. Even back here, we are assets, it's just hidden a bit more (the Koreans aren't very good at tactfulness). While I'll admit it seems much worse there, and your particular place might actually be much worse that normal, it's not that abnormal.