Korean Job Discussion Forums

[OBwannabe]

even or 8 friends of mine that I used to hang with in Seoul have moved on to greeener(?) pastures in Shanghai. I've been trying to make a return to Seoul after ignoring their warnings that Seoul/Korea ain't what it used to be....especially for those who are over 30. But now, after posting my resume online and contacting 15-20 recruiters, I see just how tough it is.
One interview so far and didn't get the job...and one offer(without interview) but they seem to have disappeared.

I'm considering following in their footsteps and teaching exclusively privates in Shanghai as the hourly pay is good (they say 200rmb/hr), but I'm wondering if age is a hurdle over there as well? China may be the wild west of ESL at the moment, but will being 38 years old get in the way of making any real money?

I would hate to quit my job, with benefits, to go teach in Shanghai on a tourist visa and have to make an expensive trip to HK every 3 months to renew if I can't afford to pay for my own health care and save at least the equivalent of 5 million won in a year(which is about what you would get in severance and pension contribution in the ROK). I also have to send the equiv of 600k won/mth home to cover debts.

You might say, "just ask your friends". But they are still in their 20's and I would love to hear from someone who is a bit older and has Shanghai experience.

In the meantime I'll keep trying for the ROK.

Trying to save enough for 2 years of college tuition and claim zero on income tax so I can qualify for maximum student loan.

Yes, I have a long term plan.

Thanks all.