Korean Job Discussion Forums

[korea.teacher]

Background: I previously wrote that after I started working at my institute, the manager said he was thinking of firing me because my recruiter lied about my age, saying I was younger...and was thinking of not reimbursing me for expenses either. I'm just finishing my first month.

I thought I had heard it all, but my manager who is quitting said the institute is still using my recruiter. The recruiter is actively looking for replacements for both me and the other teacher. So the recruiter that got me in trouble, apologized to the institute and promised to find replacement applicants at no cost!

As bad as my situation is, the manager said you don't want to know my story.

And so it goes.

Advice: The other teacher suggested we both strike, but the Labor office said that could be grounds for immediate dismissal. What do you think?

Advice: I like the suggestion I received from a poster about requesting a letter of release and transferring to another school. That seems like a win-win situation for the institute and me. Problem is, the manger said the owner is not normal and reacts emotionally. I kind of figured that out on my own.

In my situation, he selected me after reviewing my resume and seeing my photo, but got upset when he learned that I was actually older. Who knew staying healthy could be so bad for you...go figure!

[ED209]

If he does fire you get it in writing. Keep as many records as you can.
He has to give you 30days notice or 30days pay.
Start job searching(if you're a glutton for punishment), get new docs.
Now this is what I believe should happen next, though I haven't been through it. When you are fired or find a new job, inform immigration of your situation and 'demand' an exit order. Do a visa run to Japan. Try to get new employer to cover expenses(a visa run is cheaper than getting someone from your home country).
Take any remaining grievances to the labor board, who do frown on 11th month firings.

[buymybook]

Don't strike, or do anything that would give them a reason to go after you. Don't tell them/warn them about anything that you will do, surprise is the best offense. Don't do anything until you get fired(reason(s) why listed on paper) until then you are not fired, go into work with a work face and try to keep positive, don't yell/scream at your employer.

If you want, ask to have a meeting in the office. Don't worry about the other teachers or tell anyone what you will do(don't trust anyone). If/when you get fired, then file a complaint with the labor ministry AFTER you get paid if you have a good reason(s)/feel it's worth it.

If/when you get fired ask for a letter of release(which you take to Immigration and gives you permission from your employer to work again for another employer). If they don't give you one then you should do what the other poster suggested. Go to Immigration and ask for an exit order, have all documents needed to get another job/do a visa run.

You forgot to let us know how long you have been working there? I'm guessing not even 6 months but maybe you are approaching that date?

[wheredowego]

My experience:

Transfering your visa is the easiest way. Get them to sign a letter transfering your visa to whatever new job you find.

Once your school files with the labour board that they dismissed you, you have 30 days to remain in the country.

The labour board won't give a damn about your situation, even if you get fired 2 days before your contract ends. They will only help to get money for time worked or 30 days pay. Plane ticket, unpaid tax/pension/medical, other contract bonuses--they won't care.

Your new job probably won't be much better.

Good luck.

[wheredowego]

p.s. Don't sign anything. ANYTHING.