Korean Job Discussion Forums

jenwil1999 · Joined: 29 Jul 2009

I'm finishing up the paperwork on an E7 visa, which required the original copies of both my diplomas (BA & MA).

I asked when they'd be returned to me and was told "I have your diplomas and we will keep your diplomas and your transcripts as well."

It seems my company just wants to put them in a file somewhere. Does anyone have any idea why they would do this? Has anyone experienced this?

BTW - It's a VERY reputable company and a long term contract (3 yrs or more). While I trust them and they seem to trust me, I don't really want them to hang onto these documents for 3-5 yrs. Besides, I've noticed the diplomas are already wrinkled from being shipped around and my undergrad doesn't allow me to order a duplicate (unless I claim a name change or something).

Any thoughts?

seoulsucker · Posted: Thu Sep 17, 2009 1:00 am Post subject:

They're not legally allowed to do that, and you shouldn't let them. Period.

ekul · Joined: 04 Mar 2009 Location: [Mod Edit]

Usually your transcripts float off somewhere, but definitely try and keep your original diplomas. Your diplomas should have an Apostille for your visa so surely a photo copy is enough?

GoodMike · Joined: 18 Jun 2009

My experience is that my boss has hold of all my information in a file somewhere at the school. In this area at least, there are random police checks of schools a couple times a year, and all the credentials must be presented to prove that I am a legit teacher.

Personally, i have no problem with my boss holding onto this information for me, less likely i will lose it. At the end of my contract (if i dont sign again) my documents will be returned.

Whitey Otez · Joined: 31 May 2003 Location: The suburbs of Seoul

Make up an excuse to get your degree back, say something about needing it for something back home. Then forget to give it back to them. It'll be the last you hear of it. Reputable or not, they can't hold your documents hostage.

seoulsucker · Posted: Thu Sep 17, 2009 2:48 am Post subject:

I don't know if that's what your boss told you, but if immigration officials raid the school, your ARC is sufficient proof that you're working there legally.

"Safe keeping" is not something I associate most schools with here. More than likely they think of it as some kind of leverage against you bailing on them.

Get it back now, and keep it safe at home, or better yet in a safe deposit box at the bank. End of story.

Carla · Joined: 21 Nov 2008

I let my hagwon keep my diploma only because it's framed on the wall in the lobby along with all the other diplomas/certificates of the other (Korean) teachers. To be honest, I actually have to stop and stare to find it. It's in a picture frame, where it won't get torn up and bent, and I don't have to worry about putting it somewhere in my apartment (not the best when it comes to paperwork). Also, my school allows me to order another diploma without TOO much hassle and it doesn't cost me an arm or a leg.

Now, if you can't see your diploma, if it's not in a safe area (they fold up diplomas, shove them places, just destroy them sometimes), if your school doesn't easily replace diplomas, or if you can't just take it anytime you want, I would lie, and say you need it, then just never get it back. Just say you need it to join a program or something like that. Hope it works out well.

jenwil1999 · Joined: 29 Jul 2009

It's helpful to hear everyone's experiences.

First, I'm not a teacher. So there's definitely not going to be any displays. And if there were - it should really be on the wall in my office. Second, another email from my assistant seems to indicate that they want to keep my diplomas forever (although that may not be the case - her English is great, but she often doesn't realize what she's implying via email)

So, I sent an email explaining that diplomas are considered pretty personal and important. Also, one of my schools doesn't issue copies of diplomas (they will issue a new diploma with slightly different information).

Anyway, I'll be back in Korea in a few days. It'll be easier to deal with it then. In the end, I don't think it'll be a big problem, but I'm definitely not letting them keep my diplomas.

Forward Observer · Joined: 13 Jan 2009 Location: FOB Gloria

A sample of the many, many, many others in your sneakers.

http://forums.eslcafe.com/korea/viewtopic.php?t=17309&highlight=diploma

http://forums.eslcafe.com/korea/viewtopic.php?t=165311&start=30

http://forums.eslcafe.com/korea/viewtopic.php?t=4236&highlight=diploma

http://forums.eslcafe.com/korea/viewtopic.php?t=6609&highlight=diploma

http://forums.eslcafe.com/korea/viewtopic.php?t=13823&highlight=diploma

http://forums.eslcafe.com/korea/viewtopic.php?t=10520&highlight=diploma