Korean Job Discussion Forums

u05emk2 · Joined: 28 May 2006

Hi. I'm new to this forum and am considering teaching in Korea. I am wondering if anyone knows whether 6 month contracts are available much in the country? Nearly all the contracts I've seen are for a year at least. If anyone has any experience of shorter contracts I would be greatful for any information. Cheers.

Aussiekimchi · Joined: 21 Apr 2006 Location: SYDNEY

I have been putting out feelers for any schools interested in the 6 month contract.
Not many takers as yet. Certainly none in Seoul.
It would be :
1 single airfare
slightly higher salary
half severence
accomodation
6 months E2 visa with guarranteed release letter
Again not too many takers yet.

soviet_man · Joined: 23 Apr 2005 Location: Seoul

Maybe if you are under 30 and only want short-term work in Korea, you should consider non-teaching jobs. For example you might be eligible to apply for a "H1" Working Holiday visa (for citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan).

But if you insist on teaching and getting an E2 then you still have options:

For example I knew an older semi-retired couple (they were both in their early 60s) and they "job shared" 1 full-time position (at a hagwon) between them. So each person only worked 2 or 3 days a week.

That way if one of them wanted to travel somewhere overseas (for 1 or 2 weeks to see their grandkids or whatever) - then the other one would cover for them.

It was an interesting setup and it worked very well for them.

So maybe find someone else to team up with, share an apartment, and "job share" for a year. Just an idea.

giancaldo · Joined: 10 Feb 2006

Well, I managed get an 8 month position in a public school. Quite a good deal really for me. I did fly here first however. Also I didn't get my airfare paid for and I'll get half the typical severance. It was grand deal for me though.

So, getting a contract for less than a year is possible but you may need to be in the country.

Bibbitybop · Joined: 22 Feb 2006 Location: Seoul

I will probably get slammed for saying this, but:

You could get a job and then give your employer reasonable notice that you are quitting after 6 months. The contract may state 30 days or 45 days. You may get on a blacklist and have to pay back your airfare, but you could leave anytime. This is unprofessional, but if you at least gave fair notice, that's better than no notice at all.

This does give teachers a bad reputation. That is why I am about to get slammed in 5...4...3...

sheba · Joined: 16 May 2005 Location: Here there and everywhere!