Korean Job Discussion Forums

[irishsox28]

I'm looking at a contract to make 2.1 million and live in Yongsan. If I watch what I spend everyday and don't go to crazy when I go out, is it possible for me to save money living in Seoul. I'm wary because of the downturn of the economy and the drop in strength of the won. Also, how difficult is it to negotiate a higher salary with a hagwon? Namely, I would like to make 2.2 million, not 2.1

[Bibbitybop]

I know people who live on 400,000 a month (hermits). I know people who live on 1,500,000 a month (partiers, shoppers, travelers, etc.). Give yourself an allowance of 1,000,000 living comfortably and taking moderate vacations/trips. Now, what do you have left? What do you need to convert it to? Look up those rates and there is your answer.

Also, worrying about 2.2 instead of 2.1 is pointless.

[D.D.]

Why would you sign a contract for 2.1 ?

[icicle]

At this point in time the currency changes have not significantly increased the cost of living in Seoul. The only people who are badly affected are those who need to send large amounts each pay to countries like the US.

[irishsox28]

Thanks for that advice. I haven't signed the contract yet. For the person who asked why I would sign it, is there a problem with 2.1? Too low?

[D.D.]

Most Hogwans pay 2.4 to 2.6 now for a newbie. If you want 2.1 take a public school job and on top of that you will get after school classes.

[xCustomx]

[irishsox28]

That's good to know. I had thought that 2.2 would be a good salary for a first-year teacher. I have been a substitute teacher (my hometown allows you to do it if you just have some college coursework) for three years of college when I'm home on breaks. I did the middle and high school levels. I expected this to get me more money, but they offered only 2.1. Thoughts about that teaching experience and what I should ask for salary?

[sojourner1]

Sure, Korea is Korea when it comes to the cost of groceries, but 7-11 and GS 25 tend to be the more pricier options for beer, water, cold cut samwiches, and snacks. It's just more difficult to save in Seoul since you have the best bars and restaurants serving the best beer and food in Korea. You also have expensive concerts and shows that come to town as well as other cultural events which will add up to a few thousand dollars a year if you're actively interested in cultural events and the arts. One show or concert can easily cost $50 to $100 so this adds up quickly. With all this running around in such an exciting cultural capital, you're subway, bus, and taxi costs might add up in excess of $100 perhaps $200 a month.

While I haven't lived in Seoul, I believe you can save money, if not more due to higher salaries and extra afterschool classe available at the many numerous schools. And provided you are conservative where you don't do many extra activities that cost money such as bars, western restaurants, and other entertainment.

Really, the FFF in Seoul factor many Seoulite teachers talk about, is largely dependent on how much you're willing to blow. Not much more than walking around and talking is free... Seoul truly is the capital, not only for government, but for the arts, culture and everything else. If I lived there, I'd look for free performances held on weekends and holidays, but still blow too much on Erdinger beers and tasty food in Itaewon.

[egrog1717]

Newbie public school teachers (at least this year's batch of SMOE NSETs) are only rocking 1.8...

Though even with that I manage to send 1 million home a month (living in Seoul) and still go out Thurs - Sat when I feel like it...