Korean Job Discussion Forums

[cornholio1]

For all you teachers out there on E-2/F-2/F-5 do not take a public school job offering less than 2.5 mill. That should be for beginner teachers with no experience whatsoever.I have been here for the past almost nine years, and the wages have been pretty steady for most beginners for the better part of that. They were constantly around 2.0 for first year teachers. That's for thirty hours a week too. Now they are getting a bit better but not right just yet. If you knew what the schools are actually authorized to pay even for a beginning teacher you would feel the same as I do. Don't get me wrong, I don't teach at a public school for exactly that reason.I make on a good year between 6 and 8 million without breaking my back too much if I push it I can make more than 10 but I have a child now and I want more time with her. Anyways, the point I'm trying to make is don't sell yourself out for a measley 2.2 or even 2.3. I know the biggest arguement is the vacation and the amount of time you end up working. Well, those are great arguements are great for silly people who have absolutely no idea about really descent hagwans. There are hagwans out ther with the same amount of vacation and working hours, with more pay. The recruiters are getting fat off our work and most of us are oblivious to it. On the average they make 2-4 million for bringing a teacher over, then a bonus if you finish your contract as well. I know my friend became one of them. Anyhow, just don't get fooled. Don't settle for less than 2.4 or 2.5 for your first year at public schools. For hagwans you kinda have to feel your way around for the good ones and if you can speak Korean it sure helps in the negotiation process. Most hagwans hire on the fly. They usually only give their recruiters a months notice and in those situations, take special advantage of the boss' ignorance. Let him/her know. If you need a teacher by next month I am going to need much more money by next month. It's as simple as that. Keep your wits and your money don't let this vicious cycle transpire any longer. The next time a recruiter approaches, calls, emails you with some crappy job with low pay, let him know that you know how much you want and won't settle for a single won less.
Thank you.....

The disgruntled babysitter(oops, I meant English teacher.)

[dirving]

Do you mean that you make in a good year between 60 and 80 million won? What's your visa status?

[definitely maybe]