Korean Job Discussion Forums

thekat · Joined: 03 Jun 2003 Location: Canada

So, If my bank account is running pretty low at home, is it at all reasonable to consider taking a free plane ticket and a job in s. korea and count on being able to save up some money there? Are there any special (necessary) costs associated with the first month?

Alkiwi · Joined: 22 May 2003

Yeah its a good idea - one which I am currently going with at the moment. When I was there last time I think in the weeks before my first pay (usually in the first week of the month) setting up and getting started probaly cost me about 200 USD, but then again I was going into an apartment that was new and relatively bare apart from the usual bed desk deal. That much should see you more than right - you will be able to eat, get around on the bus/train etc. If you are lucky, some schools give you a relocation bonus which helps. Laughing

itaewonguy · Joined: 25 Mar 2003

yes, you'll be sweet mate!!
can even take an advance from your boss when you get here. to see you through until payday..

Son Deureo! · Joined: 30 Apr 2003

I'd suggest bringing a bit more than $200 USD, $500 at a bare minimum. While I just might be able to scrape by on 250,000 won for a month now, you'll probably be paying a bit more for things at first just because you don't know where to get good prices, and you'll need to spend some money to get yourself established (mostly household goods). A lot of bosses will give you an advance on your first month's pay, you should probably find that out before you get to Korea without any money in your pocket.

Even if your boss is willing to give you an advance, a lot of Korean bosses will tally up favors they have done for you as an excuse to mistreat you later. The less favors you need when you first arrive, the better off you will probably be.

If you can, I'd suggest bringing enough for a plane ticket back in case you need it. Since you're coming over sight unseen, you never know what kind of situation you might be getting yourself into. If you don't have that kind of cash lying around, consider making sure you have a friend or relative who will bring you home, or bringing an emergency credit card.

Most people who come to Korea find themselves in at least OK situations, but pays to have your bases covered in case you don't.

Good luck.

Austin · Joined: 23 May 2003 Location: In the kitchen

I agree with San Deureo. I would never come to Korea with less than $500 USD (1,000 USD is better). Moreover, I would never ask my employer for an advance of any kind, that is one of the major missteps that too many newcomers make within their first week.

First impressions and perceptions are very critical to your success here. Imagine how your boss would view a foreigner that would come here with little or nothing.

Do you follow?

Anyway, if you do not have it, you do not have it. Therefore, use a credit card, but think twice before asking your employer.

SCSA

BTW, when you are getting settled in, try to be as independent as possible. If you constantly call your employer for help, you will be fostering the impression of an inability to adapt and succeed.

rapier · Joined: 16 Feb 2003

yep, korea to the rescue. When i first arrived here I had zip in the bank. Upon stepping onto this strange planet and being abducted by these aliens, I discovered they were friendly, and gave me an advance until my first paycheque. I'm not sure how widespread this favour is, though. You can always stipulate that you'll need one on arrival before you sign the contract- but its unlikely to be a problem.

William Beckerson · Guest

If you're willing to live a frugal lifestyle, I've found that I can personally can get by on roughly 600,000 won / month. And most bosses will be willing to toss you at least 200,000 won until payday.

This is the place to go teach if you're broke.

waterbaby · Joined: 01 Feb 2003 Location: Baking Gord a Cheescake pie

Everyone so far has addressed Kat's questions about surviving the first month in Korea when low on funds. The second part of the question is can you save money in Korea. I think the general consensus on that one is a big fat "YES!"

Here's a link to another thread about whether or not you can save money in Korea
http://www.eslcafe.com/forums/korea/viewtopic.php?t=4675

Here's another thread that might be of interest. It's about tips for making and saving money.
http://www.eslcafe.com/forums/korea/viewtopic.php?t=4495