Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Saudiman]

I worked one year for EPIK in Gangwon-do in 2006-2007. I would like to get an experience letter (not positive or negative, just verifying dates and places on letterhead, possibly sealed or stamped) from the head office in Chuncheon as the county superintendent is not being cooperative or does not understand what I need. I am not in Korea now, but wondered how I could facilitate this the next time I arrive in Korea? Is there a form I could submit online? Thanks in advance.

[Redcap]

I was in a similar situation. Like you, all I really wanted was some sort of documentation that could verify my employment in Korea. I didn't have much faith in the POE to carry out such a simple request, so I contacted the county superintendent instead. He said that it was not his responsibility to provide such a letter.

On a subsequent business trip to Korea, I visited the public school where I had worked, and requested some assistance from my old principal. He barked an order to the vice-principal, who proceeded to craft a reference letter with enough embellishment that would make a Hollywood publicist jealous. The letter was on school stationary, and was stamped with an official seal.

My advice to you would be to contact the POE in Chuncheon first. If they aren't in a cooperative mood, then you should consider contacting your old school. Keep in mind that since you're a few years removed from teaching in Korea, there's a distinct possibility that your old principal and vp may no longer be at your old school.

Good luck

[TheUrbanMyth]

You do not actually have to visit the school you worked at to get this letter (a certificate of employment yes?). I worked in Seosan at a middle school and was able to get this COE from a middle school in Daejeon which saved me a trip to Seosan. Apparently they're all linked and can call up your employment history by typing in your school/passport number?
If your Korean is not up to snuff..it might be better to take along a Korean friend...they might wonder what a random foreigner is doing wandering the halls.