Korean Job Discussion Forums

Oreovictim · Joined: 23 Aug 2006

I only have to wait a few more days before I get my passport, and then I'll be off hunting for jobs. (Advice from a book.) But I have a few questions:

1. What's the difference between hogwon, public, and private schools?

2. Are Korean kids more respectful than American kids?

Don't get me wrong, a 7-year-old kid is a 7-year old kid. But are the older kids at least somewhat respectful? (If you've ever dealt with wild, obnoxious American middle school and high school kids, you know where I'm coming from.)

Thanks!

ttompatz · Joined: 05 Sep 2005 Location: Kwangju, South Korea

jmbran11 · Joined: 19 Jan 2006 Location: U.S.

Public school is operated by the government. "Hogwon" is a for-profit institution that teaches subjects when the students are not attending regular school (usually the afternoons/evenings). Hogwons are businesses that sell eduacation. A "private school" could be a hogwon, because they are privated owned and operated. It could also be a real school that is not run by the government, such as a privately-operated elementary school that uses English as the language of instruction and is accredited by an international organization. However, usually it's just a hogwon that is trying to sound more sophisticated. As you will learn, the difference in quality between hogwons is enormous.

As for the children, I think they are similar to children in the U.S., except they are forced to sit in classrooms much longer and so may require a more creative and energetic teacher to inspire them. Hopefully other posters can give you a better idea.

If you have the idea that because the Korean culture teaches conformity, respect for authority, and respect for one's elders, the children will all sit quietly and obey you blindly, you may be in for a disappointment.