Korean Job Discussion Forums

odegaard · Joined: 11 Sep 2006

This has probably been mentioned before but couldn't find any reference to it in the archives...

I'm planing to come to teach in Korea soon along with my Korean wife. We met and married in the UK and now it's my time to experience her culture. My concern is with my age. Is 37 too old to secure a decent teaching position or am I going to face agist employers? I've read that there is a limit of 45, but I'm not even sure if this is true.

Any advice on this matter would be great from those in the know or of a similar age. Thanks.

Atassi · Joined: 14 Feb 2006 Location: 평택

At 37, I honestly think you have nothing to worry about. And the older you get, the more respected you will be in this society. Good luck

Ya-ta Boy · Joined: 16 Jan 2003 Location: Established in 1994

lastat06513 · Posted: Sat Sep 16, 2006 2:43 pm Post subject:

For alot of the public school an university/college positions, yes- Age would bring more respect.

But some hogwons would think twice about hiring an older person to teach children though.

I know it sounds rought, but thats the fact of things....

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

wylies99 · Joined: 13 May 2006 Location: I'm one cool cat!

Age 37 isn't too old. The number doesn't seem to mean as much as physical ability to do the job. If someone is in their 20's, and they have health issues, then that's a big problem, here.

SuperHero · Joined: 10 Dec 2003 Location: Superhero Hideout

Age is not much of an issue in public schools or universities however hagwons (who really wants to work there anyhow) are a different story.

BTW I'll be 36 before the end of the year and have a great position.

PRagic · Joined: 24 Feb 2006

At 37, your age will not be an issue for employment at any type of educational institution. Having said this, some things that may determine where you will be able to work and your level of pay are 1) teaching experience, and 2), more importantly, your level of education.

One good thing is that if your wife is still a Korean citizen, you can get an F2 visa. With this in hand, it is much easier to shift jobs. Come on over, pay your dues, and don't be afraid to make moves to better jobs.

Yu_Bum_suk · Joined: 25 Dec 2004

You're the perfect age for a high school. Some hogwans won't want you because they'd see you as potentially too difficult to boss and screw around. The fact that you have a k-wife gives you too much power - you could just tell them to *beep* off and get an F-visa.

Do you have any teaching experience?

DCJames · Joined: 27 Jul 2006

Toolman · Joined: 10 Sep 2006 Location: USA

Someone mentioned "privite" lessions. What is the situation with these?

just because · Joined: 01 Aug 2003 Location: Changwon - 4964

Peter Jackson · Joined: 23 Apr 2006

My older friends have experienced discrimination. I think if you're over 50 (and look it) your job choices may be less. You'll still find employment quite easily, however. The people I know in the over 50 crowd have related that it is much harder to secure work in their own countries than here.

I know someone around my mom's age but this person has such great stamina. Makes more than I do per month.

37? You've nothing to worry about I think.

Good luck! Very Happy