Korean Job Discussion Forums

[juliebaas]

Sorry if this has been covered before, but I can't find it.


What is the expected dress code? Can women wear pants? Tasteful sleeveless shirts? Are you expected to dress up really nice for work, or can you wear jeans with a nice top.

What do you pack - is the shopping good there and can good clothes be found, I will be near Seoul in Incheon. I am trying to decide what to bring! HELP!

[djsmnc]

[juliebaas]

Well, then I'm packed and ready to go..but what about those evenings when I want to be a little less formal?

[jmbran11]

Your dress code will depend on where you teach. Ask them for specifics. I worked at one hogwan that allowed basically anything (jeans and t-shirt) for foreign teachers. The company where I work now requires suits and ties. Ask a teacher at the school. Adult Koreans (and possibly children) will generally like/respect you more if you are more dressy or sophisticated, at least initially. There are a lot of foreigners here who appear sloppy by Korean standards (probably including myself).

Generally, no shorts, pants are fine for women, and sleeveless would definitely depend on how tasteful. Shopping is plentiful if you are thin (maybe up to U.S. size 4). It is also possible otherwise, but you will have to work harder.

I would strongly suggest bringing some good separates with you and at least enough work clothes for two weeks' worth of outfits. Bring shoes and bras.

[crazylemongirl]

sleeveless is a big no-no. In terms of respect, the better you dress the more you will get. However if you are teaching kindy, bring stuff you don't mind getting dirty.