Korean Job Discussion Forums

Depths of My Soul · Joined: 04 Apr 2010 Location: In The Sun

Hey.

I plan on applying to the English Program in Korea (EPIK) and was just wondering whether it's better to apply direct through their website or use a recruiter.

Here in the UK if I applied for a job through a recruiter (agency) it would generally mean I'd get paid less by the company as the recruiter would be taking a % of "my salary". Is this how it works in Korea? If so, am I better to apply direct?

Perhaps I'm missing something. What kinds of things do recruiters offer? Is there more job security and 'after-work placement care/help?' If so then perhaps it's better to go for that.

I would appreciate some feedback from those in the know. Pro's and cons etc.

Thanks.

ttompatz · Joined: 05 Sep 2005 Location: Kwangju, South Korea

Depths of My Soul · Joined: 04 Apr 2010 Location: In The Sun

Thanks for that.

So there are benefits of going through a recruiter.

blackjack · Joined: 04 Jan 2006 Location: anyang

bsrosenfeld · Joined: 25 Jan 2010

My girlfriend and I came to Korea recently and we both used the same recruiter. After speaking with a few different recruiters we chose the one that we both liked. He was honest, up-front and very professional. He was not afraid to tell us the truth about the job opportunities, even if he knew it wasn't what we wanted to hear.
He advised us to pass on certain jobs, and pushed us to accept others. Now we are both working for GEPIK at 2 different middle schools and love it. He played a big part in the application process, getting us the best housing and helping us get established. He even keeps in contact with us now that we are here and is helping us get cellphones.

There is no cost to you at all so I would suggest using a recruiter to help you out. If you're interested in speaking with our recruiter send me an e-mail: [email protected]

Best of luck to you.