Korean Job Discussion Forums

[lasagna]

I landed in Busan South Korea this morning, with no VISA. They told me I'd have to make the standard VISA run sometime, maybe later this week. The more I learn about this school, the more scared I'm becoming. They have suggested working on weekends is a possibility, and I won't do that as it wasn't in my contract. They don't know when the school will be opening, and have very few students right now. It might not open until November, and I will be in Korea with about $400 in US travelers cheques and about $20 in won. Is it possible for me to make a run for it to Seoul, where a more reliable job potentially exists through a friend of mine, or where I can hunt for a job that's better. Any responses are appreciated.

Thanks, Andrew

[huffdaddy]

[Pak Yu Man]

If they want to change the contract...leave. Make sure your new school pays for the airline ticket.
If you've signed a contract with them there may be some problems.
I'm not sure, but I think you are good to go as long as you don't have a visa. No visa=no legally binding (hahahaha) contract.

[Hater Depot]

[the eye]

If you see signs of a bad situation, consider yourself lucky that you haven't secured a VISA.
In addition to using your friend for a contact, why not search the job ads and line up a few for interviews, then you can see things as they are. You could probably arrange to see quite a few in a couple of says.

[lasagna]

i dont have my diploma, i do have my transcripts. can i get my diploma before the potential visa run? they suggested it might occur later this week. i did sign a contract, but i dont give a flyin frack about that anymore. if i can get my diploma, then i can just fly or bus to seoul or whatever, and they most likely cant track me down?

thanks, andrew

[lasagna]

also, they have my original diploma, so if i have to get a copy sent to me in seoul will that be ok? i also believe some of the paperwork/progress is in motion to getting my work VISA, so will that cause me a problem later?

[Qinella]

You have your transcripts still? And you didn't give them a copy ever? In that case, I don't think your visa process is in motion right now. Afaik, you need those to get a work visa here.

If you find a job in Seoul, first of all, a copy of a diploma probably isn't gonna work (though some have said it has worked for them). Second, there's no way the ex-employer who has it is going to merrily send off copies so you can ditch him.

That diploma is a bargaining tool. You need to get it asap. If you are really going to scram, be up front about it. Tell him you feel like you've been deceived, and demand your diploma. Then, just go. Not much he can do.

[CBP]

So does Korea still accept certified and notarized copies of degrees? My school has asked for my original diploma.

Any way, good luck with your situation. What a disappointment that must be.

[Hater Depot]

Copies are accepted if notarized by a Korean consulate. Originals are in no way required.

[lasagna]

well, it could be worse. that was some serious culture shock yesterday. my director does seem trustworthy; she even admitted to being worried about the situation. i asked about my pay, and she kind of laughed and said not to worry. i saw the new school, it is beautiful and brand new and clean and smells of new wood, very nice. still no children at the school though. anyways, im still thinking of going to seoul, but ive learned alot since yesterday.

thanks again