Official Govt Notices

The following are official notices published by the embassy or consulates from native English speaking countries who have sent their citizens to South Korea to teach English in South Korea:

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The Federal Government of the United States of America’s stance on ESL Jobs in South Korea :

source:http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/living/teaching/teaching_1240.html

TEACHING ENGLISH IN KOREA, OPPORTUNITIES AND PITFALLS
US Embassy Seoul, Korea
AN UNOFFICIAL GUIDE COMPILED BY
AMERICAN CITIZEN SERVICES, U.S. EMBASSY, SEOUL

Over the last few years the U.S. Embassy has received many inquiries about teaching English in Korea. We have prepared this unofficial guidebook to give teachers basic information on the business of teaching English here so that they can be better informed before committing themselves to a particular job.

Unfortunately some American citizens come to Korea under contract, with promises of generous salaries, bonuses and other amenities, only to find themselves in tenuous situations, often lacking funds to return to the U.S. The Embassy, by regulation, cannot enter into any case, conduct an investigation, nor act as a lawyer in legal or contractual mishaps experienced by U.S. citizens. We can neither investigate nor certify employers. It is up to each individual to evaluate potential employers before signing a contract.

We hope this information will prove useful. If you have any problems please contact the American Citizen Services Branch at the U.S. Embassy, 82 Sejong Ro, Chongro Ku. Our telephone number for basic information is 397-4603 or 397-4604. Please press 0 at any time during the message to be connected to an ACS+ staff member. Our Fax number is 02-397-4621. Our office is open for walk-in service every weekday, except Wednesdays, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Embassy is closed on official American and Korean holidays.

OVERVIEW

Many Americans have enjoyed their teaching experiences in Korea; others have encountered problems. The key to happy and fruitful employment as a language instructor in Korea is to be employed by a reputable school and to negotiate a well-written contract before leaving the U.S. We advise anyone considering accepting an English teaching job in Korea to carefully review the terms of the contract regarding working and living conditions. It would also be useful to ask for references from persons familiar with the institution, especially American former employees.

The KOTESOL teacher’s association is a good source for up-to-date information on teaching in Korea. Information about this group can be found in the section entitled ‘SOURCES OF INFORMATION.’

The following pages will discuss the types of positions available in Korea, visa matters, contract considerations, sources of information, cultural pitfalls to consider, tips on adapting to Korea, and how the Embassy can help.

TYPES OF ESL POSITIONS AVAILABLE IN KOREA

Most English teachers work in language institutes (”hakwon” in Korean). There are, however, positions available in several types of institutions:

- private foreign language institutes (hakwons)
- corporate in-house language programs
- university language institutes- university academic departments
- government/private research centers
- editing/public relations, advertising companies
- private teaching/informal classes

HAKWONS: Private language institutes are found all over Korea. Some institutes are well-known with many branches while others are small and short-lived. The ESL market in Korea is extremely competitive and many institutes fail. Most hakwons employ a number of instructors for conversation and occasionally for writing classes. The typical employee can expect to work 20 to 30 hours per week (ESL Placement Korea would like to say that it’s actually about 25-35 hours a week). The majority of classes are conducted early in the morning and in the evening, so many instructors have free time in the afternoons [or evenings depending on their schedule]. Most classes have between 10 and 25 students. Pupils may be grade school or college students, or businessmen who are contemplating overseas assignments. Some of the better institutes will provide housing for instructors. The average salary is currently about 1.5 million won per month (US $ 1,850). [addition by ESL Placement Korea: salaries have risen to approximately the high 1.X millions to about 2.0 million as the average currently - June 2008]

PRIVATE BUSINESS PROGRAMS: Most large corporate groups (”chaebol” in Korean) have their own in-house programs. The typical instructor can expect to teach more than 30 hours per week, teaching all day from early in the morning to late at night. Most are intensive residential programs where the students study for three to six months. Some employers provide full benefits including housing, but the instructor may be required to either live on campus or commute long distances from Seoul. The average salary for these institutes is currently between 1.5 to 2 million won per month (US $ 1,850 to US $ 2,500).

UNIVERSITY INSTITUTES: Major universities in Seoul, as well as some provincial universities, operate foreign language institutes. Some pupils are university students, but the majority of students are businesspeople. These institutes tend to have the highest hiring standards in Korea; most instructors have MA degrees in TESOL, and years of teaching experience. The pay, status and benefits offered by these institutes are among the best in Korea. As a result there is very low turnover.

UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENTS: Most universities in Korea employ full-time English conversation instructors. University classes tend to be large, with little personal contact with the students. Most instructors teach between ten and 15 hours a week. Academic standards in Korean universities tend to be somewhat lax. Leftist, nationalistic and sometimes anti-American attitudes may prevail among some students. Most universities in Seoul do not provide housing, and some do not provide the benefits required by law. Monthly salaries currently tend to run about 1 million won (US $ 1,300) per month, with three to four months of paid vacation per year.

Provincial universities generally provide better housing, working conditions and salaries, and tend to treat foreign instructors as part of the faculty. The better working conditions, however, should be balanced against the cultural isolation a foreigner may encounter living in the Korean countryside.

GOVERNMENT/RESEARCH INSTITUTES: Many government agencies and some private companies operate research institutes. Most of these institutes hire foreigners who have degrees in the humanities, economics or business administration as full-time editors. Editors proofread correspondence and research publications, write speeches, and occasionally teach. Most institutes pay quite well, and some provide housing. Because these institutes tend to be government-run or closely affiliated with powerful corporate groups, their instructors seldom experience problems in obtaining work visas.

EDITING/PR/MEDIA: Quite a few public relations and advertising companies in Korea hire foreigners to work as copy editors, and occasionally as teachers. These positions are very hard to obtain as they are quite popular with the resident English-teaching community. There are also opportunities to appear on television programs, movies and radio. Most of these positions pay quite well and some provide housing assistance.

KORETTA/EPIK KOREAN GOVERNMENT PROGRAM: This fairly new, Korea-wide, government-sponsored program places native speakers in every school district in Korea and presents a unique opportunity for the adventurous to live far from tourist routes and population centers. While recruiting and training appear to be performed quite professionally, [English] teachers’ living and working experiences vary considerably. Some are welcomed with open arms and treated extremely well. Others, arriving in areas where the program has been forced upon reluctant, underfunded schools, are not wanted and this is made clear to them from the beginning. Housing, benefits, reliability of pay, and access to ombudsmen is steadily improving, but still has a long way to go.

PART-TIME EMPLOYMENT: Many full-time English teachers teach part-time as well, either at another institute or with privately-arranged classes. Extra-contractual private instruction is illegal; however many English teachers do take private students. Part-time instruction at a second institute is legal only with permission from the sponsoring institute and Korean immigration authorities. Private students pay more per hour, but some instructors have found it hard to maintain long-term private classes. One should arrange for private lesson fees to be paid prior to each class. The Embassy reminds teachers that they are personally responsible for any violations of Korean teaching and immigration law they might commit.

VISA MATTERS

EMPLOYMENT VISAS: In order to work legally in Korea, one must first obtain the appropriate employment visa. The Korean government tightly controls visa issuance for employment, and sometimes teachers have been unable to obtain visas. A person who wishes to work in Korea must obtain the visa outside Korea. One can, however, come to Korea on a tourist visa, obtain sponsorship documents, and apply for the visa in a nearby country. Depending on the job and other factors, it can take between one week and two months to obtain the appropriate visa. A teacher arriving in Korea with a teaching visa must register with Korean Immigration and obtain a residence certificate and re-entry permit within 90 days of entry.

(NOTE: Employers, on behalf of Korean government agencies processing your case, may briefly need your passport for visa or permit purposes. Despite what some employers may tell you, you are not required to hand over your passport to your employer for the duration of your stay. It is your passport; keep it yourself.)

Korean Immigration offices require the same documentation that was used to obtain the visa, so one should make plenty of copies. The Embassy has a complete listing of the various visa categories and fees, as well as contact information for Korean Immigration offices and for Korean consulates in the United States. Visa categories and fees may change from time to time, so they should always be confirmed with Immigration or a consulate.

Most English instructors are granted either an E-2 visa (conversation instructor), an E-1 visa (professor at educational institution higher than a junior college), or an E-5 visa (professional employment with a public relations firm or corporation). Dependents of diplomats stationed in Seoul can work as English teachers by obtaining a work permit from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This can be handled through the Embassy personnel office. An individual who is married to a Korean citizen can also acquire permanent residency and the right to work under the F-2 category. [F-4 visas are for foreigners with Korean heritage]

REQUIRED FORMS: In order to obtain both the visa and the residence permit (which must be obtained within 90 days of entry) the following documents must be submitted to either a Korean consulate or the Korean Immigration office:

1. sponsorship guarantee form (notarized) (shin won pojunso)

2. contract, not less than one year and not more than two years (ko young kyeyakso)

3. certificate of employment (chaejik junmyungso)These documents are supplied by the employer and should be arranged one month in advance to allow for mistakes and other mishaps.

In addition, the authorities will probably require the following:

4. statement of purpose [not really needed]
5. resume
6. driver’s license-size photos [we would say passport sized photos]
7. original of college diploma plus copies
8. [SEALED] transcripts

**Criminal Record History is now required with an Apostille or Notary (for Canadians) attached to it

**A Medical Health statement is also required now.

The Ministry of Education, which also must approve the visa and the residence permit, requires English teachers to register at the U.S. Embassy and to submit Embassy-notarized copies of their resumes with their applications for residence permits. Registration at the Embassy can be accomplished quickly. Notarial services cost $10 per document, payable in either dollars or won. The Embassy cannot accept personal checks. **This is less common these days

CHANGING EMPLOYERS: Korean Immigration must approve changes in employment. This is accomplished through leaving Korea and entering under a new visa with a new sponsor. Changing one’s employer while in Korea is quite difficult and requires written consent of the original sponsor. Even with such consent, many teachers have found it nearly impossible to effect such a change while in Korea, and some have even been arrested and deported for overstaying their original visas while still involved in trying to change employers within the country. Questions on this procedure should be directed to the nearest Immigration office or Korean consulate.

LEGAL WARNING! Some Americans have run into serious legal problems with Korean Immigration because they either work as English teachers while in Korea on tourist visas or they accept part-time employment or private classes without obtaining the proper permission. Violation of Korean immigration laws can result in severe penalties including imprisonment, fines of up to 100,000 won ($120) for each day of overstay, or deportation with a ban on re-entry for up to two years. It is your responsibility to understand local laws and to obey them.

If you violate Korean visa laws, the Embassy cannot assist you other than to provide you with a list of attorneys.

CONTRACTS

NATURE OF CONTRACTS IN KOREA: Foreign instructors in Korea occasionally have contract disputes with their employers. In the Korean context, a contract is simply a rough working agreement, subject to change depending upon the circumstances. Most Koreans do not view deviations from a contract as a breach of contract, and few Koreans would consider taking an employer to court over a contract dispute.

Instead, Koreans tend to view contracts as always being flexible and subject to further negotiation. Culturally, the written contract is not the real contract; the unwritten, oral agreement that one has with one’s employer is the real contract. However, many employers will view a contract violation by a foreign worker as serious, and will renege on verbal promises if they feel they can. Any contract should be signed with these factors in mind.

BASIC FEATURES OF MOST TEACHING CONTRACTS: Contracts for teaching positions should include provisions for the following: salary, housing, tickets home, working hours, class size, severance pay, taxes, and medical insurance. If these items are not included, one should negotiate until they are. Information on these topics is given below. When in doubt, ask; get it in writing, and remember that only the Korean-language version of the contract is legally binding in Korea.

SALARY: Most contracts provide for either a set monthly salary, or for a salary based on the number of hours taught. In any event, a guaranteed monthly remuneration should be included in the contract. Payment dates, methods, and currency should be specified in advance.

HOUSING: Few contracts provide for housing in Seoul. This can be a serious problem as housing in Seoul is among the most expensive in the world. Housing options include key money (yearly deposit), monthly rent, shared housing, dormitories, lodging houses, and inns. If your institute does not provide housing, it should at least be able to help you in finding housing, and in negotiating the appropriate rent and utility payments. Teachers who have been promised housing might want to request photos, floorplans or furniture inventories in advance. Koreans have very different ideas of what ‘western’ and ‘furnished’ housing mean. ‘Furnished’ might only mean a linoleum floor and a 2-burner stove. ‘Western’ usually just means an apartment with an indoor bath. Koreans measure housing space in ‘pyong’. One pyong is approximately 36 square feet. Pyong measurements usually include the front porch, utility room, etc. Monthly rents can run from U.S. $1500 to U.S. $4000 for a modest apartment.

KEY MONEY SYSTEM (CHUNSEE): Key money (chunsee) is a year’s rent paid in advance; with no monthly rent payment. At the end of the contract period, the renter receives the chunsee back without interest. Chunsee can be risky because property ownership may change in the middle of the contract period, or the owner may simply decide that the foreigner is in no position to fight for the chunsee. One can reduce this risk by having the employer agree to pay the chunsee. Chunsee payments run from a minimum of 20 million won (US $ 24,000) for a studio in a less desirable part of town to 500 million won (US $ 650,000) for a small apartment in one of the richer neighborhoods.

Wolsee is a variation of chunsee. The renter pays a certain amount per month plus an initial deposit which he receives back when he moves out. The same caveats apply as with chunsee.

DORMITORIES, LODGING HOUSES (HASUK) AND INNS (YOKWANS): Yonsei, Ewha, Seoul, Hanyang, Konkuk, and Hankook Universities all have dormitory accommodations available. In addition, the Korea Research Foundation runs an International House for foreign students. Sometimes these dormitories can accommodate foreign instructors, but they usually only accommodate their own regular faculty. Shared housing is a popular alternative, but be careful in choosing roommates and spell out financial arrangements in advance.

Lodging houses (hasuk) are popular with young Koreans in college or just starting out in their professional careers. Single rooms run about US $ 500 per month, and include Korean-style breakfast and dinner, and sometimes include laundry service. The disadvantage is the lack of privacy.

Another option is staying with a local family. This can be an excellent opportunity to experience Korean life and culture, but again the lack of privacy can be a disadvantage. Most instructors who live in such homestays eventually move into more private accommodations.

Finally, some people rent rooms in yokwans (inns) on a monthly basis. This is similar to staying in a lodging house, at about the same cost with no food provided, but offers far less security and less privacy as well. Some yokwans cater to short-term clients and criminals, so staying in a yokwan may cause some Koreans to treat you with a lack of respect.

TICKETS HOME: Some institutes promise to provide tickets home upon completion of a contract or to reimburse teachers for the trip to Korea. One should be aware that sometimes this commitment is not honored. Consider requesting an open-ended round trip ticket in advance.

WORKING HOURS: Most institutes require foreign instructors to teach five to six hours per day, Monday through Friday, and some also ask instructors to teach Saturday as well. Universities will usually require 10 to 15 hours per week plus participation in student activities such as editing school newspapers. Research centers usually require 40 hours per week, with occasional uncompensated overtime. Saturday morning is a normal part of the Korean work week. Teachers may have to teach early morning or late evening classes to accommodate working students.

CLASS SIZE: This is usually not spelled out in the contract. Private institutes usually have classes of between 10 to 20 students, while universities can have as many as 100 students in a class.

SEVERANCE PAY (Taechikum): The Embassy receives many inquiries and complaints about severance pay issues. It is a good idea to broach this subject early in your employment, and to be prepared for resistance. By Korean law, discussed below, all full-time employees, Korean or foreign, are entitled to receive severance pay of one month’s salary for each year of employment. Employers cannot ask you to waive this, nor can they get around it by employing you on an 11-month contract. However, Korean courts have ruled that unless a Hakwon instructor actually TEACHES 40 or more hours per week, as spelled out contractually, he is NOT ‘full-time’ and is NOT eligible for severance pay.

The Ministry of Labor has jurisdiction over severance pay matters. The Severance Pay Division can be reached at (02) 503-9727. The Ministry of Labor’s general number is (02) 500-5543/5544. The International Labor Policy Division of the Ministry of Labor (Tel: 02-504-7338) may, at your request, call employers to remind them of their legal obligations. The Ministry of Education may, at your request, call employers to remind them of their legal obligations. If you have exhausted all other avenues and feel that you need to take legal action, the Embassy can provide you with a list of local attorneys.

Severance pay rights are covered by the Labor Standards Act of the Korean Legal Code. English language translations of the Code are available at the Kyobo Bookstore, located near the Embassy. The key provisions of the Labor Standards Act as they relate to severance pay include the following:

Article 28: (Retirement Allowance System) 1) An employer shall establish a system by which average wage of not less than thirty days per year for each consecutive year employed shall be paid as retirement allowance to a retired employee. Provided, however, that this shall not apply in cases in where the period of employment is less than one year.

Article 5: (Equal Treatment) No employer may include any discrimination in the terms of labor conditions because of nationality, religion or social status.

Article 10 (Scope of Application) stipulates that the act applies to all enterprises except small family businesses, domestic servants, and those exempted by Presidential decree.

KOREAN TAXES: Most foreign employees are required to pay Korean income taxes, which are generally withheld and paid by the employer. Teachers working for colleges or universities are sometimes entitled to an exemption from paying Korean taxes for up to two years because of the U.S.-Korea Tax Treaty. **Korean Taxes are typically 3.3% or higher.

Article 20 of the Korean tax code states: An individual who is a resident of a contracting State, and who at the invitation of any university, college, or other recognized educational institution, visits the other contracting State for a period not exceeding two years solely for the purpose of teaching, or research or both at such educational institution shall be taxable only in the first mentioned State on his remuneration for such teaching or research.

The Tax Office maintains a list of institutes that are tax exempt. This provision applies only to teachers employed at universities, research centers, or university-operated institutes. (Teachers at hakwons and at private companies have to pay taxes.) The General Affairs section of the university or research center should be able to apply for the exemption. If the institute wrongly withholds taxes, it is required to pay a refund.

For guidance on these matters contact the Korean Tax Office, as they have been helpful in arranging compliance with these provisions. They also publish an English language Income Tax Guide for Foreigners. This guidebook comes out in April of each year, and is available free from any tax office. The Korean tax year runs from May 31 to the following May 1, with May income estimated. In most instances, one’s employer files the appropriate tax forms, but if they do not file, the individual must do so.

If you believe that your employer is not complying with Korean tax laws, your first step should be to discuss the matter with him or her. If that does not work, you should discuss the matter with the Korean Tax Office, International Taxation Division, 397-1346/7, or the nearest Korean Tax Office. If the problem is still not solved, you may wish to contact an attorney.

PENSION PROGRAM: Foreigners living in Korea are required to pay into the national pension plan, just as foreigners living in the U.S. must pay into Social Security. No mechanism exists at present for refund of these payments, although an agreement between the two countries may be negotiated within a few years.

U.S. TAXES: Americans residing abroad are not exempt from filing requirements, but are, under certain conditions, entitled to exclusions on foreign-earned income. More information on overseas income and filing is available from the IRS publications “Tax Guide for U.S. Citizens Abroad” and “Overseas Filers of Form 1040.” These and other Federal tax forms are available at the Embassy.

IRS representatives are available year-round at the IRS regional office in Tokyo. They may be contacted by mail, phone, or fax:

IRS
U.S. Embassy, Tokyo
10-5, Asasaka 1 Chome,
Minato-ku (107) Tokyo Japan

Tel: 81-3-3224-5470
Fax: 81-3-3224-5274

MEDICAL INSURANCE: Foreign instructors are entitled to Korean medical insurance through their employer. This should be clarified at the time of acceptance of employment. Employers often buy the minimum policy required, which provides about 400,000 won (about $500) worth of coverage. Those desiring more coverage should negotiate with their employers or buy their own.

Medical care in Korea is generally good, but, while not as expensive as in the United States, can still be costly. Many practitioners and hospitals will not accept overseas health insurance, and may require payment before treatment. It is therefore very important for individuals to make sure that insurance or funds are available in case medical care is needed. The Embassy maintains a list of English-speaking medical and dental care providers in Korea, as well as a list of insurers willing to write policies for Americans residing in Korea.

SOURCES OF INFORMATION: The Embassy does not keep a comprehensive listing of foreign language institutes nor does it provide assistance in finding employment. In Korea, English-teaching jobs are filled either through word of mouth or through advertisements in the local English newspapers. Occasionally, the better institutes will hire through advertisements in the TESOL Newsletter, or at job booths at TESOL conferences. They also occasionally advertise through college placement offices and newspapers in the United States.

RECRUITING AND PLACEMENT SERVICES: Most English teachers hired from the United States do not get their jobs directly through the institute where they work. Instead, they are recruited by a placement service. These services recruit on campus and in U.S. publications. The embassy has received complaints about a number of recruiters. Those considering working in Korea should deal with recruiters carefully: many of them do not know at which hagwon in which area of Korea the teacher will be placed; very few of them, to our knowledge, will accept responsibility for a placement that is contrary to the original terms of agreement or contract. Prospective teachers should keep all of the advice in this publication in mind when discussing employment terms with a recruiter.

Once you arrive in Korea it is a good idea to subscribe to one of the local English language newspapers, The Korea Herald or The Korea Times. Both are published daily except Mondays, and cost 7,000 won per month. Both are available in Seoul at some street newsstands, but outside of Seoul are generally only available through subscription. The Herald can be contacted at 727-0404, fax 727-0677, and The Times at 724-2828, fax 723-1623. Overseas subscriptions are available.

KOREAN YELLOW PAGES, OTHER DIRECTORIES: The Korean Yellow Pages is a very useful English-language phone directory. It is available at most larger bookstores. These stores also sell other business directories. The U.S. Foreign Commercial Service and the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea jointly publish a Korean business directory. These directories contain a wealth of information, including addresses and phone numbers for universities and Korean government offices. The Korean Research Foundation publishes a pamphlet on studying in Korea that contains information on all the universities in the country.

KOTESOL: KOTESOL is an independent, national affiliate of TESOL, an organization of teachers of English to students of other languages. KOTESOL was founded in 1992 as the union of two separate national organizations. KOTESOL is a not-for-profit organization established to promote scholarship, disseminate information, and facilitate cross-cultural understanding among English teachers in Korea.

KOTESOL has active chapters in Seoul, Taejon, Pusan, Taegu, Kyongju and Chongbuk province. Chapters hold individual monthly meetings, and sponsor educational activities in their areas, as well as participate in an annual conference in October. The Seoul chapter meets on the third Saturday of every month. The time, date, place and topic are announced in the local English newspapers about a week prior to the scheduled meeting. For, more up-to-date information, contact other English teachers.

CULTURAL PITFALLS

DIFFERENT EXPECTATIONS: Many types of people teach English in Korea. Some are professionally trained with degrees in TESOL; some hold graduate degrees in other disciplines and teach in Korea because they want to experience another culture; some teach English while doing other things, such as research; some teach while looking for other jobs; some are merely seeking any kind of work to help pay school bills; some are just passing through.

Teachers have differing expectations. They bring their own unique perspectives to their jobs, as well as their own individual reactions to new circumstances. Some expect to be revered and are shocked when they are not; others expect to make a lot of money but later find they actually earn about what a unionized bus driver in Seoul does; some expect to receive a large Western-style house and are disappointed to find themselves living in a modest room. Some teachers have been dismayed to find that their rooms were not air conditioned, and that they would have to work on their birthdays. Having realistic expectations and a flexible attitude prior to starting employment as a teacher in Korea will help prepare you for the inevitable stress and possible disappointment you may encounter.

SHORT-TERM USCISTITUTES: The Korean ESL market is extremely competitive. There are over 100,000 institutes of all types in Korea, most of them small-scale, marginal operations. Due to the competitive nature of the ESL business in Korea, many institutes do not survive long. They open their doors, hire the first foreigner they can find, advertise, teach for a month or so, lose money and close. Most of these cannot and will not pay their teachers for work performed, or for contract-specified repatriation, leaving teachers broke and stranded.

FOREIGNERS ARE NOT KOREAN: Korean society in general makes a great distinction between one’s inner circle of family, friends and business colleagues, and outsiders. One should always treat one’s inner circle with complete respect and courtesy, while one treats strangers with indifference. Korea is not an egalitarian society; one is either of a higher or a lower status than other people. How do foreigners fit into this scheme? The simple answer is - they don’t. Foreigners are completely off the scope.

In recent years, less than 10 percent of Koreans traveled abroad, most often on group tours with other Koreans, or on business trips. Even now, with outbound tourism high, most Korean travelers still visit only friends, relatives or Korean neighborhoods, or travel in groups of other Koreans. Thus, Korean society remains very inwardly focused. For most Koreans, foreigners exist only as stereotypes, and are not always liked. Living in Korea as a foreigner requires patience and fortitude. Many foreigners have found Koreans can be quite friendly and warm, but a foreigner will seldom be accepted as part of the inner circle; he will almost always be an outsider looking in.

SOCIAL STATUS OF TEACHERS: Teachers are usually treated with great respect in Korea. However, it is also important to exhibit the kind of personal qualities and behavior that help maintain that respect. A foreign teacher who does disrespectful things, such as dressing or behaving too casually or informally, or losing his temper with a boss he considers unreasonable, would be held in great disdain by most Koreans, and runs the risk of getting into serious trouble with both his employer and the Korean Immigration Office. In other words, one should always present a mature, discreet, dignified and respectful manner. As a foreigner in Korea you will be highly visible, and you may find living here to be like living in a fish bowl, with everyone around you watching what you do with great interest. Remember that Korean society is more conservative in many ways than American society, and abide by local norms.

THE ESL PROFESSION IS NOT CONSIDERED PROFESSIONAL BY SOME KOREANS: By and large, Koreans do not think teaching ESL is a professional occupation. In fact, many believe any native speaker will do. This of course is based partially on reality - many ESL instructors in Korea have not had any professional training.

KOREAN BOSSES: Korean society is extremely hierarchical. The boss is the boss; he is never questioned or criticized. The same mistreatment you may feel you have received from him is probably not limited to his foreign employees. He probably reneges on contracts and makes ‘unreasonable’ demands of his Korean employees, too. As a result, one should be careful in how one deals with one’s employer. When discussing issues that might become difficult, one should make sure not to lose one’s temper, raise one’s voice, or speak in less than respectful language.

LACK OF CLEAR COMMUNICATION: Neither Korean society nor language is very precise. Many things are left unsaid, but still are understood. Of course, foreigners often do not understand. It is important that one understand what is expected and what is required up front, and that any misunderstanding be solved early on. Otherwise problems may develop.

ADAPTING TO KOREA SOCIETY

(This section of advice was written by KOTESOL, the local English Teacher’s association.)

CULTURE SHOCK: When first arriving in a country, one is usually excited and eager for new experiences. After a while, the newness wears off, and homesickness begins. Do not judge yourself too severely at this point. It happens to everyone. “I will never understand this place. I want some real food, some real friends, a real apartment. Why do Koreans do X?”

There is hope and it is usually just a matter of time. As you continue to cope with the realities of living here, you begin to take things for granted which used to annoy you. Life becomes pleasant enough that you no longer care about the inconveniences. You suddenly find that you like kimchi. You realize your students are interesting people to know, that helping them improve their English just adds to that interest; you begin to understand your boss who was such a pain when you came; you make a few good friends who are willing to show you the Korea outside of the foreigner’s community, you begin to try and learn some Korean and use it. There are many foreigners in Korea who have come to and remain at this point, - not so much assimilated, but a part of the country in their own niche here, and who want to spend a long time in Korea.

For many others, however, the feeling eventually comes that it is time to leave. With luck you will realize it before it affects your life too deeply. It is time to leave when you begin to be negative about the country and its people. When you no longer want to go to work; when you dislike your students; when you become irritated with everything and everyone and have angry discussions with others of like mind, it is time to go.

HOW THE EMBASSY CAN HELP

Just to reiterate, the Embassy, by regulation, cannot enter into any case, conduct any investigation, or act as a lawyer for any personal mishap or employment dispute experienced by a U.S. citizen. We cannot investigate, certify, or vouch for employers. It is up to each individual to evaluate an employer before signing a contract, and to use common sense when traveling this far, including keeping sufficient funds available to return home should the situation become untenable.

The Embassy can assist Americans in a variety of ways. The Embassy offers notary services, renews passports, assists with absentee voting registration, and stocks basic IRS tax forms. We can provide phone numbers of Korean government agencies you may have to deal with. If you find yourself in need of legal help, we can provide a list of attorneys; however, we are unable to recommend any specific lawyer from this list. In case of a financial emergency, we can receive and disburse funds sent to you from a source in the U.S., usually much faster than a bank or wire transfer. Finally, we encourage all U.S. citizens to register with the Embassy. Registration allows us to contact you in the event of a family emergency.

We hope that this handbook has been useful. If you have any further questions, please contact the American Citizen Services Unit. Good luck, and enjoy your stay in Korea.

February 5, 1997

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Canada’s Diplomatic mission to South Korea’s official opinion about Teaching English in Korea:

source: http://www.voyage.gc.ca/main/pubs/korea-en.asp

INTRODUCTION

The key to happy and fruitful employment as a language instructor in Korea is to be employed by a reputable school and to obtain a fair and clear contract. Many Canadian citizens have come to Korea under contract with promises of generous salaries, bonuses and other amenities. The majority of them have had an enjoyable and rewarding experience. A minority, however, have found themselves in positions far different from those originally promised.

Canadian government offices are not permitted to become involved in any case, conduct an investigation, or act as lawyers or mediators in any personal, legal or contractual conflicts experienced by Canadian citizens. They cannot investigate, certify or vouch for prospective employers. It is up to each individual to evaluate any employment offer before signing a contract.

However, if you encounter employment difficulties, the Seoul Metropolitan government has recently established the Seoul Help Center for Foreigners, which provides many forms of assistance, including a Job Help System for Expats in Seoul, community services, information on Korea and contacts regarding specific issues. The address is:

2nd Floor, Main Building
Seoul City Hall
31 Taepyeongno 1-ga, Jung-gu
Seoul 100-744
Korea
Tel: 82-2-731-6800
Fax: 82-2-731-6803

Residents of Seoul are encouraged to forward suggestions and/or ideas on how the city can better serve the foreign community to hotline@seoul.go.kr.

The City of Busan has established a similar office (the Foreigners Assistance Center) in its city hall building. The address is:

1st Floor, City Hall Building
1000 Yeonsan 5 dong
Yeonje-gu, Busan 611-735
Tel: 82-51-865-0133
Fax: 82-51-888-6659

More information is available on the website of the Busan Foundation for International Activities.

The Embassy of Canada in Seoul does not maintain a list of teaching institutes. If you are thinking of accepting a job as a teacher of English in Korea, you are advised to ask the institute concerned for the names and telephone numbers of current and former teachers so that you can contact them directly.

If you encounter difficulties while teaching in Korea, contact the Consular Section at the Embassy of Canada in Seoul:

16-1 Jeong-dong, Jung-gu
Seoul (100-120), Republic of Korea
Tel.: 82 (2) 3783-6000
Fax: 82 (2) 3783-6112
E-Mail: seoul@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.korea.gc.c

Postal address:
P.O. Box 6299
Seoul 100-662, Korea

or the Canadian Consulate in Busan:

c/o Dongsung Chemical Corporation
472 Shin Pyung-dong, Saha-gu
Busan 604-721, Republic of Korea
Tel.: 82 (51) 204-5581
Fax: 82 (51) 204-5580

For emergency assistance after hours, telephone the Canadian Embassy in Seoul and follow the recorded instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Consular Affairs Bureau, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada, in Ottawa at (613) 996-8885.

Calling Korea

To telephone to Korea from other countries, dial:

international long distance code + country code + area/city code + telephone number

For example, if you are in Canada and you want to speak to the
Canadian Embassy in Seoul, you must dial:

011 - 82 - 2 - 3783-6000

If you are in Korea and want to make a long distance call within the country, you must dial:

domestic long distance code + city/area code + telephone number
For example, if you are in Busan and you want to speak to the
Canadian Embassy in Seoul, you must dial:

0 - 2 - 3783-6000

Recommended for your general information are the publications Bon Voyage, But … Essential Information for Canadian Travellers and Working Abroad: Unravelling the Maze. Both are produced by Consular Affairs and are available on the Internet or by calling 1-800-267-8376 (in Canada) or (613) 944-4000.

Most English instructors teach in private foreign-language institutes (hakwons in Korean). There are, however, positions available in several other types of organizations:

* corporate in-house language programs;
* university foreign-language institutes;
* university departments;
* public schools;
* government/private research institutes; and
* public relations and advertising companies.

Hakwons

Private language institutes are found all over Korea but the majority are located in Seoul. Some are well known and have many branches, while others are small-scale operations and are short-lived. The ESL (English as a Second Language) market in Korea is extremely competitive and it is common for institutes to fail. Many of the more marginal businesses open their doors, hire the first foreigner they can find, advertise for students, offer classes for a month or so, and then close.

Most hakwons employ expatriate (American, British, Canadian, New Zealander and Australian) instructors for conversation classes. Some of the better institutes will provide housing for instructors. The typical full- time employee can be expected to work 20 to 30 hours a week. The majority of classes are conducted in the early morning and the evening. Therefore, many instructors have free time in the afternoon. Most classes have from 10 to 15 students ? usually university students, or businesspeople who are contemplating overseas assignments or trying to improve their English skills. Many hakwons also have after-school classes for children as young as five years old.

All institutes are required by law to provide health insurance during the period of employment and severance pay on completion of a one-year contract, but some institutes fail to honour these provisions. (For more information, see “Severance Pay”) The average monthly salary is currently about 1.8 to 2 million a month (in major cities) or about 1.5 to 1.6 million won a month (in a small franchise).

Corporate In-House Language Programs

Most of the large corporate conglomerates (chaebols in Korean) have their own in-house language programs. An instructor can typically be expected to teach more than 30 hours a week, working irregular hours all day from early in the morning to late at night. Most of these programs are intensive residential programs that require the students to study for three to six months. Some of the programs provide instructors with full benefits, including housing, but instructors may be required either to live on-site or to commute long distances from Seoul. The average monthly salary in such programs is currently about 2 to 2.5 million won. Recently many chaebols have reduced or cancelled their in-house programs due to financial restraints.

University Foreign-Language Institutes

The major universities in Seoul, as well as some provincial universities, operate language institutes. Many of the students are enrolled in university but the majority are businesspeople. The hiring standards of these institutes tend to be the highest in Korea: most instructors have master’s degrees in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and years of teaching experience. The pay, status and benefits offered by these institutes also are among the best in Korea. As a result, there is a very low staff turnover.

Provincial universities tend to provide better housing, working conditions and salaries, and to treat foreign instructors as part of the faculty. These advantages, however, should be balanced against the cultural isolation a foreigner may encounter living in the Korean countryside.

University Departments

Most universities in Korea employ full-time English conversation instructors. University classes tend to be larger and feature less personal contact with the students. Most instructors teach between 10 and 15 hours a week. Leftist, nationalist and sometimes anti-American attitudes may be prevalent among some students. As most Koreans have difficulty in differentiating between Canadians and Americans, this could be problematic for Canadian teachers. Many universities in Seoul do not provide housing, and some do not provide the benefits required under Korean law. Monthly salaries currently average about 2 to 2.3 million won, with three to four months of paid vacation a year.

Public Schools

Recently the federal, municipal and some provincial governments have begun hiring more and more expatriate teachers to teach English in the public school system. The Korean government sponsors the English Program in Korea (EPIK), similar to the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) program in Japan. An equivalent program, known as English Teachers in Seoul (ETIS), operates exclusively in the Korean capital. The conditions and hours of work are comparable in many ways to teaching in the public systems in Canada. Housing and basic furnishings are usually provided, and salary ranges from below 2 million to 2.5 million won per month. A candidate having a master’s degree with experience in teaching or a TESOL certificate would be on the high end of the pay scale, while one with a non-education-based bachelor’s degree would be on the lower end. Insurance is half paid by the employer and half by the employee. The different levels of government in Korea have stated that they will engage more foreign teachers for the public schools. To date, however, this approach is relatively new, and few Canadians have experience in this area.

Government/Private Research Institutes

Many government agencies and some private companies operate research institutes. Most of the institutes hire foreigners with degrees in the humanities, economics or business administration to work as full-time editors. The editors proofread correspondence and research publications, write speeches, and occasionally teach as well. Most of the institutes pay quite well and some provide housing. Because the research institutes are usually government-run or closely associated with powerful corporate groups, instructors who work in them seldom experience problems in obtaining employment visas.

Public Relations and Advertising Companies

here are several public relations and advertising companies in Korea that hire foreigners to work as copy editors and occasionally as teachers as well. These positions are very difficult to obtain as they are quite popular with the resident English-teaching community. There are also opportunities to appear on television and radio programs, and in movies. Most of these companies pay quite well and some provide housing assistance.

Teaching English Part-Time

Many full-time instructors also teach part-time, either privately or at a second institution. Private instruction is illegal. Part-time employment at a second institution is illegal as well, unless permission is granted by the sponsoring institution and Korean immigration authorities. You are obliged by law to pay taxes on all income earned. If you fail to do so and get caught and fined, you will not be able to leave Korea until you have paid the required amount. If you do not have sufficient funds, immigration authorities will insist that you arrange for money to be sent from Canada. When considering part-time employment, make sure you know the law and understand that you are taking a serious risk if you teach private lessons.

Employment Visas

To work legally in Korea, you must obtain the appropriate employment visa. The Korean government tightly controls the issuance of visas for employment. In some instances, teachers have been unable to obtain the appropriate visa.

You must obtain the work visa outside Korea. If you enter Korea as a tourist and are offered employment, you can then apply for a work visa at a Korean diplomatic or consular mission in a nearby country, such as Hong Kong or Japan, provided that a Confirmation of Visa Issuance number has been provided in advance by the prospective employer. Before travelling to the nearby country, be sure to confirm with the Korean mission there that they will process visa applications from Canadian citizens.

Depending on the job and other factors, it can take between one week and two months to obtain the appropriate visa. However, visa applications submitted to Korean missions in Japan (Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka) are usually processed within two working days. Be prepared to stay as long as required to obtain the visa.

As visa regulations and the documents required change quite frequently, you should contact the nearest Korean diplomatic or consular mission if you are outside Korea, or a Korean immigration office within Korea, for confirmation of regulations and fees.

On arrival in Korea, you must register at a Korean immigration office and obtain a residence permit and a re-entry permit within 90 days of entry. All foreigners are required to possess a valid re-entry permit in order to re-enter Korea. Korean immigration offices require the same documentation as is needed for obtaining the visa, so you should make a number of copies.

Most English instructors are granted an E-1 visa (professor at an educational institution higher than a junior college), an E-2 visa (conversation instructor) or an E-5 visa (professional employee with a public relations firm or corporation). An individual who is married to a Korean citizen can also acquire permanent residency rights as a spouse.

Despite what some employers may tell you, you are not required to hand over your Canadian passport to your employer for the duration of your stay. It is your passport and you should keep it in your possession.

Required Forms

To obtain a visa (before entering), you must submit the following items to the relevant Korean government office with your passport and a completed visa application form:

* an employment contract (ko yong kyeyakso);
* a sponsorship guarantee form (shin won pojungso) notarized by a notary public;
* a copy of the employer’s business registration certificate;
* the original diploma of your four-year university degree, plus copies;
* sealed university transcripts;
* two photos (3.5 x 4.5cm) with a light background, taken within six months; and
* a visa fee (30$ for single entry, 50$ for multiple entry).

To obtain a residence permit (within 90 days of entry), you must provide the following items to the relevant Korean goverment office:

* your passport;
* an application form;
* two photos (3 x 4 cm);
* a fee of KRW10,000; and
* a copy of the employer’s business registration certificate.

The Korean government is investigating more thoroughly the use of fraudulent documents, university degrees and ESL certificates. Penalties for using fraudulent documents include deportation and restrictions on re-entry for five years or more.

Changing Your Employer

To change employers, you require permission from the Korean immigration authorities and, in principle, must leave Korea and return under a new visa with a new sponsor. Changing employers is quite difficult and requires release consent from your original employer for the remaining contract period. You should direct any questions on this procedure to the nearest immigration office.

If you resign to take up new employment without a letter of release from your previous employer, you must leave the country within 14 days of your resignation. A new work permit will not be issued until the expiration of your previous contract. However, after leaving the country, you can return to Korea as a tourist while awaiting the expiry of your old contract, although you are not allowed to work in the interim.

Legal Problems

Some expatriates have encountered serious legal problems with the Korean immigration authorities because either they have accepted employment as English teachers while in Korea on a tourist visa or they have agreed to take part-time employment or teach private classes without obtaining the proper permission. Violation of Korean immigration laws can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment, fines of up to 50,000 won for each day of overstay, or deportation with a ban on re-entry, usually for up to two years. It is your responsibility to understand local laws and obey them. Canadian government offices cannot assist you in any way if you violate Korean laws, other than to provide you with a list of attorneys.

Nature of Contracts in Korea

Many foreign-language institutions view a contract as just part of the process of beginning a relationship with an instructor. The contract is only as binding as the personal connection. Therefore, foreign instructors sometimes have contract disputes with their employers. The employer may consider the contract a simple working agreement, infinitely flexible and subject to change (usually after the foreign teacher has arrived in Korea). The real contract is not a written one, but an unwritten, oral agreement. Most Koreans do not view deviations from a contract as a “breach,” and few would consider taking an employer to court over a contract dispute. You should bear these factors in mind when signing a contract.

Negotiating a Teaching Contract

A basic contract for a teaching position should include provisions for the following: salary; housing; working hours; severance pay; income tax; medical insurance; and ticket home. If these items are not covered, you should negotiate until they are specifically included in the contract. Note that class size is not usually specified in a contract, although you may want to clarify this point. Private institutions generally have classes of from 10 to 15 students, while universities may have as many as 100 students in a class.

Most contracts provide for either a set monthly salary or a salary based on the number of hours taught. In any event, a guaranteed monthly remuneration should be specified. More detailed information on these contract items is given below. Remember: When in doubt, ask.

The currency in Korea is the won. For the current exchange rate, visit the Bank of Canada’s Currency Converter. Traveller’s cheques are accepted at all chartered banks (”Eunhaeng” in Korean). U.S. dollar traveller’s cheques are recommended for the best exchange rate. Foreign debit cards are not accepted. Some major banks have ATMs that accept international client or credit cards. The amount allowed per withdrawal may be quite low, rendering the service charge disproportionately high. Most ATMs that can be used to draw money from Canadian banks offer English instructions. Major foreign credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, American Express) are widely accepted by hotels and other tourist facilities and are generally regarded as safe to use. Travellers may wish to check with their card issuer prior to travel for the latest reports of credit card fraud. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

In keeping with Korea’s Foreign Currency Control Act, when transferring funds from Korea to Canada, you need to report and register your intention to transfer regular funds, within your salary limit, with a local bank, providing your employment certificate and proof of income (such as an income tax payment certificate). A local bank will place a stamp in your passport stating how much was transferred. If you are working in Korea and paying Korean income tax, you can transfer your entire income, based on your tax payment certificate. As a tourist, you are required to declare at customs if you are bringing into, or carrying out of, the country more than the equivalent of US$10,000, including local currency.

Few contracts provide for housing in Seoul. This can be a serious problem, as housing in Seoul is among the most expensive in the world. If your institute does not provide housing, it should at least be able to help you find accommodation and negotiate the appropriate rent and utility payments. Housing options include: the key money system (yearly deposit); monthly rent; shared housing; and dormitories, lodging houses and inns.
The Key Money System

Under the key money (chunsee) system, when you move into a house you give the owner of the property the equivalent of a year’s rent in advance and pay no monthly rent. At the end of the contract period, you receive the chunsee back. In return for the use of your money to earn interest during the contract period, the owner gives you back the principal.

This system is well established in Korea, but it does involve risks. For example, an owner may simply decide that a foreigner is in no position to fight for the chunsee, and there have been cases where ownership of a property changed during the contract period. You can reduce the risk by having your employer agree to pay the chunsee. Chunsee payments run from a minimum of 5 million won for a small studio in a less desirable part of town to 60~100 million won for a better apartment in one of the more prestigious neighbourhoods.

Monthly Rent

Walsee is a variation of chunsee. You pay a certain amount per month, plus a deposit, which you get back when you move out. The risks are the same as with chunsee. Monthly rents can run as high as 1.1 to 2.8 million won for a modest apartment.

Shared Housing

This is a popular option but you should of course be careful in choosing room-mates, and each person’s financial responsibilities should be spelled out in advance.

Dormitories, Lodging Houses and Inns

Yonsei, Ewha, Seoul, Hanyang and Konkuk universities and Hankook University of Foreign Studies all have dormitory accommodation available. In addition, the Korean Research Foundation runs an International House for foreign students. Sometimes these dormitories can accommodate foreign instructors, although usually they accommodate only their own faculty.

Lodging houses (hasuk) are popular with young Koreans in college or those just starting their professional career. Single rooms can cost over 500,000 won a month and include Korean-style breakfast and dinner, and sometimes laundry service. The disadvantage is the lack of privacy. Another option is to stay with a local family. This can be an excellent opportunity to experience Korean life and culture directly, but again the lack of privacy can be a disadvantage. Most instructors who live in such homestays eventually move into more private accommodation.

Finally, some people rent rooms in an inn (yokwan) on a monthly basis. This is similar to staying in a lodging house and costs about the same with no food provided, but it offers far less security and less privacy as well. Some yokwans cater to dubious short-term (hourly) clients, so staying in a yokwan could put your personal safety and reputation at risk.

When Housing is Provided by the Employer

Real-estate agents worldwide are experts in writing enticing descriptions of their properties. There are instances where the quality of accommodations falls far below the expectations of foreign language teachers.

Given that employment contracts are often viewed as intent to enter into a long-term relationship, in accordance with Korean culture, it is not always wise to insist on western-style accommodations upon arrival. It is also important to remember that real-estate prices are generally higher in Korea than in Canada. Your modest accommodations may be very expensive.

Most institutes require foreign instructors to teach 5 to 6 hours a day, Monday through Friday, not necessarily consecutively. Some institutes ask instructors to teach on Saturday mornings as well. University departments usually require instructors to teach 10 to 15 hours a week, and to participate in student activities and in the editing of school newspapers. Research institutes usually require instructors to work 40 hours a week and do occasional overtime without compensation.

Canadian government offices in Korea receive many questions and complaints about severance pay (taechikum) issues. It is important to make sure that your contract contains a clear statement about severance pay, even if your employer is reluctant. By Korean law, discussed below, all full-time instructors (if you have an employment visa, you are considered full-time), whether Korean or foreign, are entitled to receive severance pay of one month’s salary for each year of employment. Employers cannot ask you to waive this right, nor can they evade it by employing you on an 11-month contract.

The Ministry of Labor has jurisdiction over matters of severance pay. You can reach the Severance Pay Division at 82 (2) 507-1701. The general number for the Ministry of Labor is 82 (2) 502-9457/8 or 82(2) 2110-7080/81. The Ministry of Labor or the Ministry of Education may, at your request, call employers to remind them of their legal obligations. If you have exhausted all other avenues in trying to obtain severance pay and feel that you need to take legal action, the Embassy of Canada in Seoul can provide you with a list of attorneys.

Severance pay rights are covered by the Labour Standards Act of the Korean Legal Code. English-language translations of the Code are available at the Kyobo Bookstore, located near the U.S. Embassy. The key provisions of the Labour Standards Act relating to severance pay include:

* Article 28(1) (Retirement Allowance System): An employer shall establish a system by which an average wage of not less than 30 days per year for each consecutive year employed shall be paid as retirement allowance to a retired employee. Provided, however, that this shall not apply in cases where the period of employment is less than one year.

* Article 5 (Equal Treatment): No employer may include any discrimination in the terms of labour conditions because of nationality, religion or social status.

* Article 10 (Scope of Application): The Act applies to all enterprises except small family businesses, domestic servants, and those exempted by Presidential decree.

When there is a dispute with your employer on your salary or severance payment, you should contact the local labour office in the area. The list of regional labour offices is available on the Ministry of Labor website.

Or you may wish to contact the following offices for legal advice:

Seoul Bar Association
Legal Center for Foreign Workers
Lawyers Association Building, 1st floor, 1718-1 Seocho-dong
Seocho-gu Seoul
Tel: 02-3476-8080 (ext. 1)
Fax: 02-3476-8094
Website: www.koreanbar.or.kr

English speaking consultants are available on Mondays from 14:00 to 17:00.

Foreign Workers’ Council
14 Bomun-dong 5-ga Sungbuk-gu Seoul
Tel: 02-928-2049 or 02-924-2706

Korea Legal Aid Corp.
1703-10 Seocho-dong Seocho-gu, Seoul
Tel: 132 (ext. 9)
Website: www.klac.or.kr
You can get information on small claims action on the website of the Supreme Court of Korea.

Income tax is another common cause of complaint. Most foreign employees are required to pay Korean income tax, which is generally withheld from an employee’s salary and paid by the employer. The Korean income-tax rate is 5 to 10 percent. It is your employer’s responsibility to do a year-end tax settlement every January. For detailed information, you may wish to refer to the National Tax Service website.

Article 20 of the Korean Tax Code states: “An individual who is a resident of a contracting State and who, at the invitation of any university, college, or other recognized educational institution, visits the other contracting State for a period not exceeding two years solely for the purpose of teaching, or research or both at such educational institution shall be taxable only in the first mentioned State on his remuneration for such teaching or research.”

The Korean Tax Office in Seoul maintains a list of institutes where foreign teachers are tax-exempt. In principle, Article 20 applies only to teachers employed at universities, research centres or university-operated institutes. Teachers at hakwons and at private companies may have to pay tax. The general affairs section of the university or research centre can apply for the exemption. If the institute withholds income tax without reason, it is required to pay a refund.

For guidance on taxation matters contact the Korean Tax Office in Seoul, which has been helpful in arranging compliance with Article 20. The Office also publishes an English-language income tax guide for foreigners in April of each year; this is available free at any tax office.

The Korean tax year runs from June 1 to May 31. Usually employers file the appropriate tax forms but if they do not do so, individual employees may be penalized for failing to file. If you believe that your employer is not complying with national tax laws and is illegally withholding income tax from your salary, your first step should be to discuss the matter with your employer. If that does not settle the matter, you should contact the International Taxation Division of the Korean Tax Office in Seoul at 82 (2) 397-1114 or 82 (2) 397-1446, or the nearest tax office. If the problem is still unresolved, you may wish to consider contacting an attorney.

Depending on the length of your stay in Korea, you may or may not be liable for payment of Canadian income tax on your income earned in Korea. Before your departure from Canada, it is advisable to contact the nearest Canada Revenue Agency office in order to determine your residency status with regard to Canadian income tax.

In principle, foreign instructors are entitled to Korean medical insurance through their employer. You should clarify this when you accept an offer of employment. It is important that you know and understand the nature and scope of coverage. While medical care in Korea is generally good and not as expensive as in Canada, it can still be quite costly. If you cannot/do not get insurance through your employer, you can get public health insurance on an individual basis, but only with a resident ID card.

If you purchase private health insurance, it is important to note that most medical practitioners and hospitals do not accept the premise of directly billing private health insurance, whether it is from an overseas or domestic firm. They usually demand payment before treatment and clients have to settle with their company for a re-imbursement after the fact.

It is therefore very important for you to make sure that insurance and/or funds are available in case you need medical attention. The Embassy of Canada in Seoul maintains a list of English-speaking medical and dental care providers in Korea.
For further information, see the website of the National Health Insurance Corporation.

When you leave Korea, you may be entitled to receive both your and your employer’s contributions to Korea’s National Pension Scheme if you :

* are a Canadian or Korean citizen; and
* have contributed to the Korean National Pension Scheme for less than 10 years.

The documentation required for a refund application is as follows:

* your passport;
* your alien registration;
* a copy of your bank book (Korean or Canadian); and
* an airline ticket showing your departure date.

Your employer will also have to report the termination of the contract to the National Pension Service (NPS) of Korea upon your departure from the country. The NPS will deposit the refund in your bank account after it confirms your departure.

If you are a Canadian citizen and are eligible for a lump sum refund, you will only be refunded contributions made on or after May 1, 1999, when the Agreement on Social Security between Canada and Korea entered into force. This lump sum benefit must be claimed within five years of the date you become eligible. It is important to note that you will no longer be entitled to receive a pension from Korea if your contributions are refunded.

If you do not apply for a refund of your pension contributions, the provisions of the social security agreement can help you to receive a Korean retirement pension if you :

* contributed to the Korean National Pension Scheme for more than one year;
* contributed to the Canada Pension Plan after 1988; and
* contributed to both the Canada Pension Plan and the Korean National Pension Scheme for a total of at least 10 years.

The period of time in which you participated in the Canada Pension Plan will be counted towards the Korean eligibility requirement of 10 years.

More information on the Social Security Agreement is available on Korea’s National Pension Service website. For additional information, see the website of Service Canada .

Some institutes will provide you with a ticket home on completion of your contract and will also promise to reimburse your costs for the trip to Korea. You should be aware that sometimes this commitment is not honoured.

There are many different types of people teaching English in Korea. Some are professionally trained with degrees in TESOL; some hold postgraduate degrees in other disciplines and are teaching in Korea because they want to experience another culture; some are teaching English while doing other work, such as research; some are teaching English while looking for other jobs; and some are merely passing through.

Most of these people bring their own unique expectations to their jobs, as well as their own individual reactions to the circumstances in which they find themselves. Some expect to be treated professionally and are shocked when they are not. Some expect to make a lot of money but later realize that they are actually earning about the same as a unionized bus driver in Seoul. Some expect to receive a large Western-style house and are disappointed to find themselves living in very modest accommodation. Being aware of cultural differences before you start employment as a teacher in Korea will help you prepare for any disappointments you may encounter.

The Status of Foreigners in Korea

Being accepted into an individual’s inner circle of family, friends and colleagues can be challenging in Korea. It may take some patience and effort to overcome cultural barriers and form close relationships. Nevertheless, most foreigners have found that Koreans can be quite warm and friendly.

The Status of Teachers in Korea

Most teachers in Korea, including TESOL teachers, are treated with great respect by their students. However, it is important for teachers to exhibit the personal qualities and behaviour that help to maintain that respect. A foreign teacher who acted disrespectfully would be regarded with great disdain by most Koreans, and would run the risk of getting into serious trouble with both his/her employer and the Korean immigration authorities. In other words, you should always act in a respectful manner and with discretion.

As a foreigner in Korea, you will be very visible: you may find everyone around you watching what you do with great interest. Always remember that Korean society is much more conservative in many ways than North American society; you should try to be sensitive to cultural norms and expectations.

Female Teachers in Korea

?Korea is culturally very different from Canada. Some female Canadian teachers have commented that their working conditions are not as good as those of male counterparts. Sexual harassment is not the norm, but it does happen, and women should be aware of the situation when making a decision about working in Korea.

There have been cases of sexual assault against Canadians and other foreigners. Victims have reported being robbed and sexually assaulted. Canadian teachers should remain cautious and whenever possible should try to share accommodation. For more information and advice, refer to our publication Her Own Way.

If you are the victim of a sexual assault, you should immediately seek the assistance of the nearest medical and police authorities. Canadian consular officials can:

* assist in reporting the crime to the police;
* provide support and assistance in relation to the emotional, social, medical and legal consequences of the assault;
* assist in contacting relatives or friends;
* contact counselling services locally, if available, or in Canada;
* provide emergency financial assistance; and
* seek to ensure that a proper investigation is carried out and charges laid if the person responsible has been identified.

For further information on this matter, visit the Sexual Assault Problem page of our Web site.

Korean Employers

Korea is a more hierarchical society than Canada. Employees are not expected to question decisions made by their employers or to challenge their authority, especially in the presence of others. When discussing issues that might become difficult, do so in private and make sure that you do not lose your temper, raise your voice or use disrespectful language.

Communications Problems

Both the language and social customs of Korea are subtle and indirect. Many things are understood rather than stated. Of course, foreigners are often at a loss. It is important that you understand what is expected and required, and that any misunderstanding be resolved immediately. Otherwise, problems may develop.

The following advice on culture shock was supplied by KOTESOL. You can find more information on culture shock and how to cope with living in a foreign country in the Consular Affairs publication Working Abroad: Unravelling the Maze.

When first arriving in a country, one is usually excited and eager for new experiences. After a while, the newness wears off and homesickness begins. Do not be too hard on yourself; it happens to everyone ?”I will never understand this place.” “I want some real food . . . some real friends . . . a real apartment.” “Why do Koreans do this or that?”

It is usually just a matter of time. As you continue to cope with the realities of living in Korea, you will begin to take for granted things that used to annoy you. Life will become enjoyable enough that you will no longer care about the inconveniences. You will suddenly find that you like kimchi; you will realize that your students are interesting people and that helping them to improve their English just adds to that interest; you will begin to understand your friends who want to show you the Korea beyond the expatriate community; you will begin to try to learn some Korean and use it.

There are many foreigners in Korea who came and stayed; they have carved out their own niche in Korea and want to remain for a long time. Many others, however, eventually reach the point where they feel it is time to leave. With luck, you will realize this before it affects your life too profoundly. It is time to leave when you begin to be negative about the country and its people. When you no longer want to go to work, dislike your students, become irritated with everything and everyone and have angry discussions with others of like mind, it is time to go.

The Canadian Embassy in Seoul can, however, assist Canadians in a variety of ways. It offers notarial services, and also provides passport and consular services. It can assist in providing the telephone numbers of various Korean government agencies that you may have to contact. If you do find yourself in need of legal advice, the Embassy can give you a list of attorneys; however, it is unable to recommend any specific lawyer from this list, and the choice of legal representation must be your own decision. Embassy personnel will attempt to respond to all your questions or complaints. Finally, it is advisable for all Canadian citizens in Korea to register with the Embassy. Registration allows Embassy staff to contact you if an emergency or crisis situation arises, or if your family or friends urgently need to get in touch with you. Registration is voluntary, and the information you provide is protected and used in accordance with the provisions of the Privacy Act. Canadians can also register online.

If you have any further questions about teaching English in Korea, please contact the Consular Affairs Bureau at 1-800-267-6788 (in Canada) or (613) 944-6788.

The Embassy of Canada in Seoul does not maintain a comprehensive list of language institutes. Most positions are filled through either word of mouth or advertisements in the local English newspapers. Occasionally, the better institutes will hire instructors by advertising in the TESOL newsletter or by operating employment booths at TESOL conferences. They also sometimes advertise through university/college placement offices in the United States and Canada. The Internet is also being used to advertise jobs.

Newspapers

Once you have arrived in Korea, it is a good idea to subscribe to one of the local English newspapers, such as the Korea Herald, Korea Times or JoongAng Daily (distributed with the International Herald Tribune). They are published six times a week and cost from 16,000 to 20,000 won a month. They are also available in Seoul at most street newsstands. Outside Seoul, they are generally available only by subscription. You can contact the Korea Herald at 1588-0533, Korea Times at (2) 724-2342 or JoongAng Daily/International Herald Tribune at 1577-0510. Overseas subscriptions are also available.

The Korean Yellow Pages and Other Directories

A very useful English-language telephone directory, the Korean Yellow Pages is available for sale at most of the larger bookstores, as are other business directories. The U.S. Embassy Foreign Commercial Service and the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea jointly publish a Korean business directory. All these directories contain a wealth of information, including the addresses and telephone numbers of universities and Korean government offices. The Korean Research Foundation produces a pamphlet on studying in Korea; it contains information on all the universities in the country.

Korea TESOL (KOTESOL)

KOTESOL is a non-profit organization established to promote scholarship, distribute information and facilitate cross-cultural understanding among English teachers in Korea. It is a good source of up-to-date information on teaching in Korea. KOTESOL’s national executive supports teacher training and development through special interest groups, academic publications and research grants. The annual international conference each October, attended by over 800 people, is a chance to meet some of the best authors, teachers and researchers from around the world.

KOTESOL has active chapters in Seoul, Suwon, Cheongju, Gangneung, Daejeon, Jeonju, Gwangju, Daegu and Busan. Chapters hold monthly workshops and sponsor educational activities in their area. Dates, times and locations can be found on the chapter pages of the national Web site. For further information, contact:

E-mail: KOTESOL@asia.com
Web site: www.kotesol.org

Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
www.international.gc.ca

Consular Affairs Bureau
www.voyage.gc.ca

General
Tel.: 1 800 267-6788 (in Canada and the U.S.) or (613) 944-6788
TTY: 1 800 394-3472 (in Canada and the U.S.) or (613) 944-1310
E-mail: voyage@international.gc.ca

Emergencies
Tel.: (613) 996-8885
(call collect from abroad where available)
E-mail: sos@international.gc.ca

The Consular Affairs Bureau publishes, in both official languages, a series of safe travel brochures.

Country Travel Reports provide information on safety and security conditions, health issues and entry requirements for over 200 travel destinations. This information is also available by telephone: 1 800 267-6788 (in Canada and the U.S.) or (613) 944-6788.

Canadian government offices abroad
www.voyage.gc.ca/alt/canoffices.asp

Foreign government offices accredited to Canada
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Visit our For More Information page.

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Published by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada

Information in this publication is readily available for personal and public non-commercial use and may be reproduced, in part or in whole and by any means, without charge or further permission from Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada. We ask only that:

* Users exercise due diligence in ensuring the accuracy of the materials reproduced;
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All information in this publication is provided on an “as is” basis without warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied. Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada makes all reasonable efforts to ensure that the information contained in this publication is accurate. The reader is also encouraged to supplement this information with independent research and professional advice.

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We would like to receive your comments on this publication. Write to us at the address above or e-mail us at voyage@international.gc.ca.
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The opinion of Australia’s Embassy to South Korea on English Teaching in Korea:

source: http://www.southkorea.embassy.gov.au/seol/Teaching.html

Teaching English in Korea

Teaching English in Korea can be a positive experience, and the majority of those who come here as English teachers find this to be so. Complaints have however been received from Australian citizens teaching English in Korea about alleged misrepresentation of their living and working conditions. The most frequent complaints are that schools, institutions or recruiting agents misrepresent, or change without consultation, contract terms including salaries, working conditions, living arrangements and benefits (including health insurance) and the need for an appropriate work visa.

Some preparatory research before coming to Korea to take up employment is essential. The Australian Embassy is unable to investigate, certify or vouch for prospective employers. Ask the institute for details of present and past teachers and seek references from them. Ask where the institute is located and where you will be based, how long the institute has operated, and how many foreign teachers it employs. Ask about class sizes and expected working hours. Ask about accommodation, taxation, medical cover, who pays for air tickets, termination of contract arrangements, termination benefits etc. Please note that medical treatment, accommodation and utilities can be expensive if not included in the employment contract.

Contracts should clearly state all terms and conditions of employment and it is up to each individual to evaluate any offer of employment. Contracts should be reviewed carefully before they are signed. As both written and oral agreements are legally binding, an oral agreement, if proven, may take precedence over a written contract. Be careful not to make statements to an employer that can be construed to be a valid change to the terms of an employment agreement.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade strongly recommends travel and health insurance for all overseas travel. You should check with your insurer to make sure that your policy meets your needs and that it covers repatriation costs in the event of illness, accident or death.

The Australian Embassy is unable to intervene in any personal, legal or contractual dispute with an employer. We are unable to offer legal advice, but can provide details of English speaking lawyers and also the contact details of a local organisation that offers free legal advice to foreign workers in Korea. We cannot assist in meeting legal costs.

An appropriate employment visa is required to work legally in Korea. As visa regulations and required documentation change frequently, you should contact the nearest Korean Embassy or Consulate if you are outside Korea or an immigration office if you are in Korea, to obtain information on the latest regulations and fees.

If you wish to work in Korea, you must obtain a visa outside the country. However, you can enter Korea on a tourist visa, obtain letters of sponsorship and apply for a visa in a nearby country. It can take between one week and two months to obtain the appropriate visa.

On arrival in Korea you must register at a Korean immigration office and obtain a residence permit and re-entry permit within 90 days of entry. Most English instructors are granted an E-1 visa (professor at an educational institution higher than a junior college), an E-2 visa (conversation instructor) or an E-5 visa (professional employee with a public relations firm or corporation).

Changing employers is quite difficult and requires release consent from your original employer for the remaining period of the contract. Permission from the Korean immigration authorities is required and you must leave Korea and return with a new visa with your new sponsor. You should direct any questions on this procedure to the nearest immigration office.

Some foreign nationals have encountered serious legal problems with Korean immigration authorities because they have been employed as English teachers whilst on a tourist visa; they have undertaken part-time employment; or have taught private classes without obtaining the proper permission. Violation of Korean immigration laws can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment, fines or deportation with a ban on re-entry for up to two years. The Embassy is unable to provide assistance if you violate Korean laws, other than to provide a list of English speaking lawyers.

Your employer has no legal right to hold your passport, and is not required to do so by the Korean authorities. Please contact the Consular Section of the Australian Embassy if your employer insists on keeping your passport.

Embassy address: 11th Fl, Kyobo Building, 1 Jongno 1-Ga, Jongno-Gu, Seoul - Telephone: 02 2003 0100, http://www.southkorea.embassy.gov.au/seol/Teaching.html

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From the United Kingdom Diplomatic mission to South Korea about Teaching English in the Republic of Korea:

source: http://www.britishembassy.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1101396793974

Teaching English in Korea

CHANGES TO IMMIGRATION RULES FOR FOREIGN TEACHERS WORKING IN THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA

On 15 December 2007 the Ministry of Justice made some changes to the immigration rules which effects those in Korea in teaching positions on E2 visas and those planning to work in Korea as teachers on

E2 visas. Information about the immigration rules can be found on the English language version of the Ministry of Justice website: www.moj.go.kr

Anyone planning to come to Korea and work as a teacher should contact their nearest Korean Embassy to find out the latest application procedures. The website for the Korean Embassy in London can be found at http://www.koreanembassy.org.uk/engsub2_1.html.

For those already in Korea when you apply for a visa extension, renewal or when switching employers you will need to provide a criminal check completed in the UK and a health check completed in Korea.

The attached leaflet from the Korean Immigration Service explains the background to the changes and the procedures to be followed:

New Changes on the E2 Teaching Visa Holders in Korea” Document from Korean Immigration Service (DOC)

The British police do not issue “certificates of good conduct” or “police clearance certificates”. However you can request a police reply under the subject access provisions of the Data Protection Act 1998 as a suitable equivalent. The Korean authorities find this acceptable. It is possible for British Citizens living in Korea to make this request to their local police authority from outside the UK. You do not have to have been living in the UK before making this request. The reply from the British police has no expiry date as it covers the time up to the request was made. We understand that the request and reply take around 40 days to complete. The reply will be sent to you by post only and will not be sent by either email or fax. Only you can make the request via the British police - the British Embassy cannot facilitate this for you.

The Metropolitan Police website has further information on obtaining a police reply under the subject access provisions of the Data Protection Act 1998. Click here:

http://www.met.police.uk/dataprotection/faq.htm#certs for step by step instructions on how to make this request. Similar requests can be made to other police forces in the United Kingdom.

For a list of Police Forces in the UK including contact details, click here: www.askthe.police.uk

Once you have your police check this will need to be notarised by the Consular section of the British Embassy. We can notarise the police certificate which will be acceptable by the Korean Immigration Office. For current fees please visit our Consular Fees

British Embassy
Taepyungro 40
4 Jeong-dong
Jung-gu
Seoul
100-120

The Consular Section of the British Embassy Seoul is open as follows :

Between 09:30-12:00 Monday-Friday
For fee paying services including the acceptance of passport and notarial applications, birth registration etc. and for pre-booked appointments (marriage, notarial, citizenship ceremonies)

Between 14:00-16:30 Monday-Friday
The section is open for general enquries and non fee paying services only.

Tel:+82 (2) 3210 5500
Email: Consular.Seoul@fco.gov.uk

Degree certificates will also need to be verified to prove their authenticity. This applies to applicants both in Korea and applying in the UK. This can be done by your employer. They will need to contact the Korean Accreditation Agency who will carry out the necessary checks. In order for them to be able to do this you will need to provide a signed letter of consent to your employer. Failure to complete these checks may result in your visa being denied.

A few general tips:

English language teaching is a large and lucrative commercial operation here in Korea. Unfortunately, as with all such operations, some language institutes are not as reputable as others or quickly go out of business. Some preparatory research before taking up employment therefore, may avoid problems in the future.

Wherever possible, try to check out potential employers, before committing yourself. Ask for contact details of present and past teachers and seek references from them. Ask how long the business has operated, and how many foreign teachers it employs. Ask about class sizes and expected working hours. Ask about accommodation, taxation, medical cover, who pays for air tickets, termination of contract arrangements, terminal benefits etc. Please note that medical treatment and accommodation and utilities, can be expensive if not included in the employment package.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office advises all those travelling abroad to take out sufficient medical/travel insurance for the duration of their stay. This should cover repatriation costs in the event of illness/accident or death.

Commercial disputes between language institutes and teachers they employ are not uncommon. On occasions, the conditions of employment stated in contracts are not honoured, or are subject to change without prior consultation. Always keep copies of all correspondence with your employer and/or recruiting agency.

If you are being offered something in your contract which is ”too good to be true”, them, quite possibly it is! Be realistic in your expectations.

Ensure you enter Korea using the correct visa, i.e. one which allows you to take employment. The nearest Korean Embassy is able to give advice on the visa requirements to work in the Republic of Korea.

Click here for the contact details of the Korean Embassy in London.

Retain your passport. Your employer has no legal right to hold your passport, and is not required to do so by the Korean authorities. Your passport remains the property of the British Government at all times. Please contact the Consular Section of the British Embassy for advice, if your employer insists on keeping your passport.

Please note that the British Embassy is unable to intervene in any commercial dispute with your employer. We are unable to offer legal advice as we are not trained to do so. We can, however provide details of English speaking lawyers, and also the contact details of a local organisation which offers free legal advice to foreign worker in Korea. We cannot help to meet any legal costs. You should consider taking out insurance cover, to pay for any costs which you might incur, if you become involved in a dispute with your employer.

Consular Section
British Embassy
Seoul
23 April 2008

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From the New Zealand Consulate/Embassy for South Korea regarding Teaching English in Korea:

source: http://www.nzembassy.com/info.cfm?CFID=13870963&CFTOKEN=64164423&c=8&l=39&s=nz&p=448

Teaching English in Korea
This unofficial guide has been prepared to give New Zealanders basic information on the business of teaching English in Korea so they can be better informed before committing themselves to a particular job.

Unfortunately, some New Zealand citizens have come to Korea under contract with promises of generous salaries, bonuses and other amenities only to find themselves in tenuous situations, often lacking funds to return home.

The New Zealand Embassy is not permitted to enter any case; conduct an investigation; nor act as a lawyer in legal or contractual mishaps experienced by New Zealand citizens. We can neither investigate nor certify employers. It is up to each individual to evaluate a potential employer before signing a contract.

We hope that this information will prove useful. The Embassy does not maintain a list of teaching institutes. Prospective teachers are urged to deal directly with the school and current or former teachers of the institute.

If you have any other problems, please contact the Consular Section at the New Zealand Embassy in Korea:

New Zealand Embassy, Seoul
15th floor, Kyobo Building
1 Chongro 1-ka, Chongro-ku
Seoul
Telephone: 82-2-3701 7700
Facsimile: 82-2-3701 7701
Post: KPO Box 2258, Seoul 110-110, Korea
Website: www.nzembassy.com/korea

For emergency assistance after hours, call the New Zealand Embassy in Seoul and follow the instructions.

We also recommend you to have a look at Travelling Overseas section of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade website for general travel advice.

Overview
Many New Zealanders have enjoyed their teaching experiences in Korea while some have encountered problems. The key to happy and fruitful employment as a language instructor in Korea is to be employed by a reputable school. We advise anyone considering accepting an English teaching job in Korea to ask the school for names and telephone numbers of teachers past and present, contact them directly to ask about conditions. Keep in mind that there is no shortage of teaching jobs in Korea, so do not accept anything you’re not comfortable with.

The KOTESOL teachers’ association is a good source for up-to-date information on teaching in Korea. Information about this group can be found at Sources of Information.

The following pages will discuss the types of positions available in Korea, Korean visa matters, contractual considerations, sources of information, cultural pitfalls to consider, tips on adapting to Korea, and how the Embassy can help.

Contracts
Nature of Contracts in Korea:

Koreans see business less as a rational, legally based interaction than as a relationship. Consequently there is a much weaker sense of law in Korean business relations than in international business. For many Koreans, a contract is part of the symbolism involved in beginning a relationship, and ‘beginning’ is the important word. The contract, thus, is only as binding as the personal relations.

It is not surprising, therefore, that foreign instructors in Korea occasionally have contract disputes with their employers. The employer may, indeed, consider the contract a simple working agreement, subject to change depending upon the circumstances- and usually after the foreigner has arrived in Korea. Most Koreans do not view deviations from a contract as a “breach” and few Koreans would consider taking an employer to court over a contract dispute.

Instead, Koreans tend to view contracts as always being flexible and subject to further negotiation. Furthermore, the written contract is not the real contract; the unwritten, oral agreement that one has with one’s employer is the real contract. The contract should be signed with these factors in mind.

Basic Features of Most Teaching Contracts: Contracts for teaching positions normally include some, but not necessarily all, provisions for the following: salary, housing, hours, class size, severance pay, taxes, and medical insurance and ticket home. (If these items are not included, one should negotiate until they are specifically included in the contract.) Information on these topics is given below.
Remember - when in doubt, ask.

Salary: Most contracts provide for either a set monthly salary or for a salary based on the number of hours taught. In any event, a guaranteed monthly remuneration should be included in the contract.

Housing: Few contracts provide for housing in Seoul but many will include a housing allowance of between 200,000 to 500,000 won. This can be a serious problem as housing in Seoul is among the most expensive in the world. Housing options include key money (yearly deposit), monthly rent, shared housing, dormitories, lodging houses, and inns. If your institute does not provide housing, they should at least be able to help you in finding housing, and in negotiating the appropriate rent and utility payments.

Key Money System (Chunsee): Key money (chunsee) means you give the owner of the property the equivalent of a year’s rent up front when you move into the house, and pay no monthly rent. At the end of the contract period, the renter receives the chunsee back. In return for the use of the money for the contract period, the owner of the house returns the principal back to the renter. The renter pays no monthly rent while the owner earns interest on the key money.
This is quite risky because ownership may change in the middle of the contract period, or the owner may simply decide that the foreigner is in no position to fight for the chunsee. One can reduce this risk by having the employer agree to pay the chunsee. Chunsee payments run from a minimum of 2 million won for a small studio in a less desirable part of town to 50-80 million won for a decent apartment in one of the more prestigious neighbourhoods.

Wolsee is a variation of chunsee. A renter pays a certain amount per month, and a certain deposit which he receives when he moves out. The same caveats apply as with chunsee. Monthly rents can run as high as 1.1-2.8 million won a modest apartment. Shared housing is a popular alternative but, of course, one should be careful in choosing roommates, and financial responsibilities should be spelled out in advance.

Dormitories, Lodging Houses (Hasuk) and Inns (Yokwans): Yonsei, Ewha, Seoul, Hanyang, and Konkuk universities and Hankook University of Foreign Studies all have dormitory accommodation available. In addition, the Korean Research Foundation runs the International House for foreign students. Sometimes, these dormitories can accommodate foreign instructors, but they usually only accommodate their own faculty.

Lodging houses (hasuk) are popular with young Koreans in college or those just starting out in their professional careers. Single rooms run about 500,000 won per month, and include Korean-style breakfast and dinner, and sometimes include laundry service. The disadvantage is the lack of privacy.

Another option is staying with a local family. This can be an excellent opportunity to experience Korean life and culture directly, but again the lack of privacy can be a disadvantage. Most instructors who live in such homestays eventually move into more private accommodations.

Finally, some people rent rooms in yokwans (inns) on a monthly basis. This is similar to staying in a lodging house, at about the same cost with no food provided, but offers far less security and less privacy as well. Some yokwans cater to dubious short-term (hourly) clients so staying in a yokwan may result in some Koreans treating you with a lack of respect.

Working Hours: Most institutes will require foreign instructors to teach five to six hours per day, Monday through Friday, and some also ask instructors to teach Saturday morning as well. Universities will usually require 15 to 25 hours per week, and participation in student activities and editing school newspapers. Research centres usually require 40 hours per week, with occasional overtime without compensation.

Class Size: This is usually not spelled out in the contract. Private institutions usually have classes of between 10 and 20 students, while universities can have as many as 100 students in a class.

Severance Pay (Twaechikum)
The Embassy receives many enquiries and complaints about severance pay issues. It is generally a good idea to approach this subject early in your employment, and to be prepared for resistance. By Korean law, discussed below, all full-time instructors (if you have a work visa, you are considered full-time), be they Korean or foreign, are entitled to receive severance pay of one month’s salary for each year of employment. Employers cannot ask you to waive this. However they have been known to get around it by employing you on an 11-month contract so be careful not to sign such a contract.

The Ministry of Labour has jurisdiction over severance pay matters. Severance Pay Division can be reached at (822) 503-9727. The Ministry of Labour general number is (822) 500-5544. The Ministry of Labour or the Ministry of Education may, at your request, call employers to remind them of their legal obligations. If you have exhausted all other avenues and feel that you need to take legal action, the Embassy can provide you with a list of attorneys.

Severance pay rights are covered by the Labour Standards Act of the Korean Legal Code. English language translations of the code are available at the Kyobo Bookstore, located in the same building as the Embassy. The key provision of the Labour Standards Act as they relate to severance include the following:

* Article 28: (Retirement Allowance System) 1. An employer shall establish a system by which average wage of not less than 30 days per year for each consecutive year employed shall be paid as retirement allowance to a retired employee. Provided, however, that this shall not apply in cases in where the period of employment is less than one year.

* Article 5: (Equal Treatment) No employer may include any discrimination in the terms of labour conditions because of nationality, religion or social status.

* Article 10: (Scope of Application) stipulates that the act applies to all enterprises except small family businesses, domestic servants, and those exempted by Presidential decree.

Korean Taxes

Another common complaint concerns taxes. Most foreign employees are required to pay Korean income taxes, which are generally withheld and paid by the employer. Korean income tax is 5-10%.

Article 20 of the Korean tax code states:
An individual who is a resident of a contracting State and who, at the invitation of any university, college, or other recognized educational institution, visits the other contracting State for a period not exceeding two years solely for the purpose of teaching, or research or both at such educational institution shall be taxable only in the first mentioned State on his remuneration for such teaching or research.

The tax office maintains a list of institutes that are tax exempt. In principle, this provision applies only to teachers employed at universities, research centres, or university-operated institutes. Teachers at hakwons and at private companies may have to pay taxes. The general affairs section of the university or research centre could apply for the exemption. If the institute wrongly withholds taxes, it is required to pay a refund.

For guidance on these matters, contact the Korean Tax Office as they have been helpful in arranging compliance with these provisions. They also publish an English Language Income Tax Guide for Foreigners. This guidebook comes out in April of each year and is available free at any tax office. The Korean tax year runs from 1 June to the following 31 May. Usually, one’s employer files the appropriate tax forms, but if they do not file, the individual may be liable for not filing.

If you believe your employer is not complying with the Korean tax laws, and is illegally withholding income taxes from your salary, your first step should be to discuss the matter with your employer. If that does not work, you should discuss the matter with the Korean Tax Office, International Taxation Division, 720-4793 or 720-4222, or visit National Tax Service website or visit the nearest Korean Tax Office. Should the problem still not be resolved, then you may wish to consider contacting an attorney.

New Zealand Income Taxes: Depending on the length of your stay in Korea, you may or may not be liable for payment of New Zealand income tax on your income earned in Korea. You are encouraged to contact your nearest Inland Revenue office before your departure from New Zealand to determine your residency status as for New Zealand income tax.

Medical Insurance: In principle, foreign instructors are entitled to Korean medical insurance through their employer. This should be clarified at the time of acceptance of employment. It is important that you know and understand the nature and scope of coverage so be sure to ask your employer about the important details. Medical care in Korea is generally good, and while not as expensive as in New Zealand, can still be quite costly. Many practitioners and hospitals will not accept overseas health insurance and may demand payment before treatment. It is therefore very important for individuals to make sure that insurance or funds are available in case medical care is needed. The Embassy maintains a list of English-speaking medical and dental care providers in Korea.

Ticket Home
Some institutes will provide you with a ticket home on completion of your contract and will also promise to reimburse your costs for the trip to Korea. You should be aware that sometimes this commitment is not honoured.

Types of Foreign Language Institutes and Programmes
Most English teachers teach in language institutes (hakwon in Korean). There are, however, positions available in several types of institutions listed below:

- private foreign language institutions (hakwons)
- corporate in-house language programmes
- university language institutes
- university departments
- government/private research centres
- public relations & advertising companies
- private teaching/informal classes

Hakwons
Private language institutions are found all over Korea but the majority are located in Seoul. Some institutes are well known with many branches while others are smaller and short-lived. The ESL market in Korea is extremely competitive and many institutes fail. Most hakwons employ a certain number of expatriate (American, British, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand) instructors for conversation classes. The typical full-time employee can be expected to work 20 to 30 hours per week. The majority of classes are conducted early in the morning and in the evening, so many instructors have free time in the afternoons. Most classes have between 10 and 15 students. Students will probably be university students or businessmen who are contemplating overseas assignments or trying to improve their English conversation skill. Many Hakwons also have after school classes for children as young as 5 years old. Some of the better institutes will provide housing for instructors.

All institutes are required by law to provide health insurance during the period of employment and severance pay upon completion of a contract but some institutes fail to honour these provisions. (For more information on severance pay, see Contracts. The average monthly salary is currently about 1.4 to 1.5 million won.

Corporate in-house Language Programme
Most of the big corporate groups (chaebol in Korean) have their own in-house programmes. The typical instructor can be expected to teach more than 30 hours per week, teaching irregular hours all day from early in the morning to late at night. Most of these programmes are intensive residential programmes where the students study for three to six months. Some of these programmes provide full benefits including housing, but the instructor may be required to either live on-site or commute long distances from Seoul. The average salary for these institutes is currently between 1.5 to 2 million won per month. As a result of current economic conditions many Chaebols are reducing or cancelling their in-house programmes.

University Language Institutes
The major universities in Seoul, and some provincial universities as well, operate foreign language institutes. Many of the students are university students, but the majority of the students are business people. The hiring standards of these institutes tend to be the highest in Korea; most instructors have MA degrees in TESOL and years of teaching experience. The pay, status, and benefits offered by these institutes also tend to be among the best in Korea. As a result, there is very low staff turnover.

Provincial universities tend to provide better housing, working conditions, and salaries, and tend to treat foreign instructors as part of the faculty. The better working conditions, however, should be balanced against the cultural isolation a foreigner may encounter living in the Korean countryside.

University Departments
Most universities in Korea employ full-time English conversation instructors. University classes tend to be larger, with less personal contact with the students. Most instructors teach between 10 and 15 hours a week. Academic standards in Korean universities, however, tend to be somewhat lax. Many universities in Seoul do not provide housing, and some do not provide the benefits required by law. Monthly salaries currently tend to run about 1.5 million won, with three to four months of paid vacation per year.

Government/Private Research Centres
Many government agencies and some private companies operate research institutes. Most of these institutes hire foreigners who have degrees in the humanities, economics, or business administration as full-time editors. Editors proof-read correspondence and research publications, write speeches, and occasionally teach as well. Primarily, institutes pay quite well, and some provide housing. Because these institutes tend to be government-run or closely associated with powerful corporate groups, instructors who work there seldom experience problems in obtaining employment visas.

Public Relations & Advertising Companies
There are several public relations and advertising companies in Korea that hire foreigners to work as copy editors, and occasionally as teachers as well. These positions are very hard to obtain as they are quite popular with the resident English-teaching community. There are also opportunities to appear on television programmes, movies, and radio. Most of these positions pay quite well, and some provide housing assistance.

Private Teaching/Informal Classes
Many full-time English teachers teach part-time as well, either at another institute or with privately-arranged classes. In principle, private instruction is illegal, however many English teachers do engage private students. Part-time instruction at a second institute is possible with permission from the sponsoring institute and the Korean immigration authorities. Private students tend to pay quite a bit more per hour, but some instructors have found that it is hard to have a long-term private class. If you are going to hold private lessons, you should arrange for lession fees to be paid prior to each class. Keep in mind that over the past few years, Korean Immigration has tightened its control over such work permits. If fined you cannot leave Korea until the fine has been paid. Immigration will insist that you get money sent from New Zealand if you do not have sufficient funds. When considering private teaching, know the law and understand that you may be taking a serious risk if you teach without permission.

English Programme in Korea (EPIK)
The Korean Government invites 140 teachers from English speaking countries each year to teach English in primary and secondary schools. Please visit EPIK website at http://epik.knue.ac.kr or contact the nearest Korean Embassy for more information.

Visa Matters
KOREA IMMIGRATION SERVICE

Korea Immigration Service, a division under Ministry of Justice, has offices throughout Korea and will be able to assist you with visa matters including questions about your visa status, alien registration, extention/renewal of sojourn period and changes in visa status. Please visit Korea Immigration Service website for more information.

Employment Visas
To work legally in Korea, one must obtain the appropriate employment visa. The Korean government tightly controls visa issuance for employment, and there have been instances in which teachers have been unable to obtain the appropriate visas. With effect from 15 December 2007 the government of the Republic of Korea has introduced new regulations that require an apostille certified criminal record check and a health certificate to be submitted with E-2 teaching visa applications or extension applications.

At this time, the New Zealand Embassy does not have any further information about what specifically the Korean authorities will require of E-2 visa applicants. If you have further questions, we suggest that you contact the Korean Immigration Service, Border Control Division, at 500-9116, 500-9117, or 500-9118, or consult their website http://seoul.immigration.go.kr/HP/IMM80/index.do. The New Zealand Embassy in Seoul is not able to provide a criminal record check service, nor can the Embassy authenticate record checks.

The Privacy Unit of the Ministry of Justice will provide information on criminal convictions. For information on how to obtain a copy of your criminal record and application forms please refer to the website http://www.justice.govt.nz/privacy.

The Authentication Unit of the Department of Internal Affairs issues Apostille Certificates. For information on how to obtain an Apostille Certificate please refer to the website http://www.dia.govt.nz/apostille .

Legal Warning: Some expatriates have run into serious legal problems with the Korean Immigration Office because they have either accepted employment as English teachers while in Korea on a tourist visa or they accepted part-time employment or private classes without obtaining the proper permission. Violation of the Korea Immigration laws can result in severe penalties including imprisonment; fines of up to Won 50,000 for each day of overstay or deportation with a ban on re-entry, usually for up to two years. It is your responsibility to understand local laws and to obey them. The Embassy cannot assist you in any manner if you violate Korean visa laws, other than provide you with a list of attorneys.

Sources of Information
The Embassy does not maintain a comprehensive listing of foreign language institutes. Most positions are filled either through word of mouth, or through advertisements in the local English newspapers. Occasionally, the better institutes will hire through advertising in the TESOL Newsletter, or by operating job booths while attending TESOL conferences.

Newspapers

Once you arrive in Korea, it is a good idea to subscribe to one of the local English newspapers, Korea Herald or Korea Times. Both are published six times per week and cost Won 12,000 per month. Both are available in Seoul at most street newsstands, but outside Seoul, are generally only available through subscription. The Herald can be contacted at 727-0430, fax 727-0677, and the Times at 724-2715, fax 736-7416. Overseas subscriptions are also available.

Korean Yellow Pages, Other Directories

The Korean Yellow Pages is a very useful English language phone directory. It is available for sale at most of the larger bookstores as are other business directories. The American Embassy Foreign Commercial Service and the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea jointly publish a Korean business directory. These directories contain a wealth of information, including addresses and phone numbers for universities and Korean government offices. The Korean Research Foundation produces a pamphlet on studying in Korea that contains information on all of the universities in the country.

KOTESOL

KOTESOL is an independent national affiliate of TESOL, an organization of teachers of English to students of other languages. KOTESOL was founded in 1992 as the union of two separate national organizations. KOTESOL is a nonprofit organisation established to promote s

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