Korean Job Discussion Forums

[mtfirefly]

I realize that its hard to answer this question since there are so many variables to consider, but figured I'd try. I am getting close to finishing my 1st year teaching in Korea and want to do a 2nd. I'm working at a hagwon (SLP - Sogang Language Program specifically) and despite all the horrible things that other people have experienced with them, I've had a very good experience working with them. That being said, I've been trying to find some information online about what I can expect to earn as a 2nd year teacher but I haven't had any luck.

The only information I find is for 1st year teachers and the pay is basically the same (2.0-2.2 mil). Now, my degree isn't in education but I hope I could make more with 1 year experience. So, what can I expect signing on for a 2nd year with my school?

[furtakk]

If you stay at the same school, it's pretty fair to ask for around 2-300 extra a month. They are saving on recruiting fees, airplane tickets, and visa fees. Not to mention that they have a sure thing and don't have to worry about the new teacher not doing well.

[koreatimes]

They aren't saving much on airfare unless you choose not to fly anywhere during your time between contracts. Personally, I only average 6 months at these schools, so I don't bother worrying about airfare issues. However, if you have completed one year, you might want to try to get a flight home and back paid for by the school. Whether or not this is normal now with the budget cuts, I don't know. I do know teachers that did this and their pay also went up when they returned.

As far as getting paid more, figure 100,000 for each factor. So, automatically, it should be 100,000 more than your first contract states. Next, consider any training you may have gotten. Has your workload increased? A friend of mine was at 2.4 and he worked his butt off with high school classes and regular hagwon classes. He got a flight home between contracts and came back with 2.7. I don't know if you can expect 250,000 though. If they won't give you a flight home and back, then I think 200,000 is a better request settling with 150,000.

[PatrickGHBusan]

[jrwhite82]

Also consider asking for other perks. Like an extra week of vacation, get AC if you don't have it yet, etc...

[marsavalanche]

do you honestly think most hagwons would be willing to up your pay 200-300 after one year? i feel most would rather just hire another newbie for 2.1 than meet your offer, at least that's the vibe i get from this forum.

my first hagwon, which was the perfect place to START in korea imo, was guilty of this. no one extended a year because they wouldn't up the pay.

i can't speak for public schools.

asking for another week of vacation is a great idea.

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[PatrickGHBusan]

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[minos]

The only way to go up in pay and benefits is to change jobs. Even then, your likely to only hit about 2.3, but you'll get easier hours than SLP. Unless you move to a UNI or SAT hagwon which pay more.

Some hagwons(and public/private schools) offer lots of lucrative extra work.

Most of the higher pay comes from having a string of privates and side work.

Highest I've ever earned at base pay(no side work on the job) was 2.7....but they're out of your league.

Some places offer 2.5, but they're pretty competitive just for that extra 200. Places that pay 3.0 mil and up are out of your league without experience and/or a edu. degree/ivy degree

[Carbon]

All of this really depends on the teacher's performance. Are you worth more of anything? That is the key question that most people are incapable of answering themselves, as for most, being objective regarding one's performance is tough.

Generally, a renewal should have some perk, but in reality, don't expect or ask for much unless you really are doing something extraordinary (and you are sure the school knows it).

[marsavalanche]

[jrwhite82]

[jeremysums]

Can you teach in Korea and be a recruiter at the same time?