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PART III
VISITING KOREA, LIVING IN KOREA
78 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
THE OVERSEAS KOREANS VISA (F-4)
F-4 STATUS (OVERSEAS KOREAN RESIDENTS)
THE OBJECT OF VISA ISSUANCE
This visa category is reserved for Overseas Korean residents whom the Ministry of Justice permits to
stay in Korea for special reasons.
- A Korean foreigner or his / her immediate family who left Korea after the Establishment of the
Korean Government and renounced Korean citizenship.
- A Korean foreigner or his / her immediate family who left Korea before the Establishment of the
Korean Government and officially confirmed his / her Korean citizenship prior to obtaining
foreign nationality.
- An official confirmation means that an individual filed a registration according to the "Registration
of Korean Nationals Residing Abroad Act" with the Korean Embassy or Consulate abroad or
organizations mandated an authority by the Republic of Korea at that time.
APPLICATION AND REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
A Korean foreigner shall make an application for a visa to a Korean Embassy or Consulate abroad
and required documents are as follows :
A Korean foreigner who previously held Korean citizenship before his / her obtain foreign
nationality.
- Passport
- Application form
- Substantiating documents demonstrating an applicant's ex-Korean nationality such as a Korean
family tree register
- Substantiating documents for the reasons and the time of obtaining foreign nationality
- Other documents which are deemed to be necessary by the Minister of Justice
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An immediate family member of a Korean-foreigner who obtained foreign nationality
- Passport
- Application form
- Substantiating documents that prove his / her parent's ex-Korean nationality
- Substantiating documents for the reasons and the time of obtaining foreign nationality of the
applicant and his / her parent
- Substantiating documents which establish the relationship of the family such as a certificate of
birth
- Other documents which are deemed to be necessary by the Minister of Justice
- If necessary, the chief of a Korean Embassy or Consulate abroad may ask an applicant to
submit additinal documents
THE STANDARD OF VISA ISSUANCE
- The chief of a Korean Embassy or Consulate abroad may issue a single visa (F-4) with a 2 year
period of sojourn
- For a Korean-American applicant, the chief of a Korean Embassy or Consulate abroad may re-
issue this visa for a period of 2 years.
VISA ISSUANCE
When the application is approved, the chief of a Korean Embassy or Consulate abroad shall affix
a visa stamp in the passport of the applicant. Contained in the stamp, are noted the status of sojourn
(F-4), period of stay (less than 2 years) and validity of the visa
(Website : www.moj.go.kr/immi/08_english/02_business/service_01_f.html)
80 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
SPECIFICALLY FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS (OAKS)
G.O.A.'L.
WHO CAN OBTAIN THIS VISA?
People of Korean decent residing overseas that emmigrated from korea after 1948. Overseas
Korean Nationals (Haewe-Hankook / Dongpo= Kyopo) or Foreign National Koreans (Wekook-
Kookjeok-Dongpo=OAKs, Korean born overseas with another citizenship and Koreans who have
changed their citizenship).
HOW DOES THIS BILL BENEFIT US?
This bill for OAKs gives us legal status in Korea for two years and is also renewable without having to
leave the country. If you decide to move within these two years, you must notify the Seoul
Immigration office. We no longer need sponsorship from a school, company, family or friend. This
means work, study, or family visas are not necessary. We are legally entitled to own land or property,
open up a business, and tutor privately.
Employment in companies will be a little easier to obtain, as the companies will not have the hassle
of paperwork for a work visa. In most every case of employement, speaking Korean is always a plus!
THIS VISA DOES NOT GUARANTEE US TO OBTAIN THE FOLLOWING
When buying a cellular phone (as a foreigner) we may not be able to purchase it under our own name.
each companies rules differ for extending credit. If you experience difficulties, then you should consiler
asking a native Korean to sponsor a cellular phone for you. Applying for a bank loan, credit card, or
wiring money overseas from Korea. Is also conditional of each bank’s approval. up to the bank if they
want to trust you. If they do not trust you, then you should ask a native Korean to sponsor you.
Employment means 'white collar' jobs such as teaching, office work, government work, etc. You are
NOT allowed to work (as the Koreans would say) any of the 3D's. This means, dangerous, dirty, and
difficult jobs. i.e. factory workers, street venders, janitorial work, maintenance, house cleaning, etc.
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HOW TO OBTAIN THIS VISA
From overseas you may go to the nearest Korean embassy or consulate. Calling first is
recommended! In Korea you should go to the Seoul Immigration office in "Oh Mok Kyo Dong"
(subway line, no. 5). There is a special department specifically for this visa on the 2nd floor, room
204. When arriving on the first floor there is a written notice only in Korean. You will need to pay the
60,000 won fee on the first floor by purchasing a stamp before going to the second floor to apply for
the visa.
DOCUMENTS TO PROVIDE
Proof that you were once born in Korea as a Korean citizen (a copy of your "Family Register" - Ho-
Jeok). For OAKs - Your family register is either in your file at your adoption agency or in Korea at
your adoption agency. If your file is missing or misplaced, your adoption agency in Korea will help
you provide proof that you were once born in Korea as a Korean citizen. Unfortunately those who
were adopted in the late 1950's or those who were not adopted through any current adoption agency
may have a more difficult time to obtain this document.
Note You must provide this document in order prove that you were born in Korea. If you know your
adoption agency in Korea, you can write to them to request this letter.
Note If arriving on a tourist visa, the immigration officer may ask you to provide your family registry
and a document of proof that you discontinued your Korean citizenship. You may do this while
you're at your adoption agency.
T i p Obtaining this document may be difficult for some of you, we recommend you come to Korea
on a tourist visa which in most cases is valid for 90 days (cost $50). Visa exemptions for
European countries and Australia allow you to stay in Korea for up to 90 days without a visa.
For the U.S., the limit is 30 days, and for Canada, 180 days. After arrival in Korea, you will
have less dificulty changing your visa status.
82 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
THINGS YOU WILL NEED
- Two application forms :
- Domestic residence report of foreign national Korean (Wekook-Kookjeok-Dongpo
Kooknae- Keososhingoseo), and a change of visa status form.
- $50 US or 60.000 won
- You can purchase a stamp at the immigration office or at your Korean consulate.
- Two current pictures
- Valid ID
- Current passport
Process time If you arrive in Korea on a (3-6 months) tourist, working, or student visa, it will take 1-
2 weeks from the time you submit the visa request (Seoul immigration office).
Note When submitting the request, the immigration officer will take all documents listed above
including your ID card and passport. At this time ask for a receipt stating that your passport
and ID are with them. They will inform you what day you can receive your passport, and new
ID card.
FOR A LIST OF DISTRICT IMMIGRATION OFFICES IN KOREA
Website : www.moj.go.kr/english/function/function06_08.php
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FOREIGN EMBASSIES IN SEOUL, KOREA
You may want to register with your embassy during your stay in Korea as a precaution, or in case friends
or family from abroad need to contact you in an emergency.
Embassy of Belgium Embassy of The Netherlands
Website : www.belgium.or.kr Website : www.nlembassy.or.kr
Embassy of Norway
Embassy of Canada Website : www.norway.or.kr/info/embassy.htm
Website : www.korea.gc.ca
Embassy of Sweden
Embassy of Denmark Website : www.swedenabroad.com
Website : www.denmark-embassy.or.kr
Embassy of The United Kingdom
Embassy of France Website :
Website : ambassade.france.or.kr www.britishembassy.or.kr/english/index.htm
Embassy of Germany Embassy of The United States of America
Website : www.gembassy.or.kr/de/home/index.html Website : usembassy.state.gov/seoul
84 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
MOTHERLAND AND ROOTS TOURS TO KOREA
Motherland and/or Roots tours have become part of the post-adoption services offered by many
adoption agencies. Some of these tours are for teenage adoptees and their adoptive parents, others
are exclusively for adult Korean adoptees. Some private tour companies offer tours to Asia that
include specialized motherland tours for adoptees and their families. In addition, a few non-profit
Korean organizations, as well as the Overseas Koreans Foundation, run annual summer programs
for adoptees. Most tours run from 10 days to two weeks.
Please check the following websites or contact the tour organizer directly for more information about
dates, prices and duration.
U.S. TOUR ORGANIZATIONS
California Pacific Tours
Tel : 1-650-615-4750
Email : ysj@cptours.com
Website : www.cptours.com
Children's Home Society of Minnesota-Tour Korea!
Affiliated with Eastern Social Welfare Society
Tel : 1-651-646-4414
Jeff Mondloh, Email : jmondloh@chsm.com
Website : www.childrenshomeadopt.org/Korea_Tours.html
Dillon International, Inc.-Visit Korea
Affiliated with Eastern Social Welfare Society
Tel : 1-918-749-4600
Email : bev@dillonadopt.com or elaine@dillonadopt.com
Website : www.dillonadopt.com/Dillon%20Visit%20Korea%20Tour.htm
Friends of Korea Family Exchange Program
Tel : 1-916-933-1447
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Email : forkorea@aol.com
Website : www.friendsofkorea.org/?page=family_exchange
Holt Motherland and Family Tours
Motherland Tour is for adoptees 18 and older
Tel : 1-541-687-2202
Sue Mills, Email : suem@holtintl.org
Website : www.holtintl.org/tours/korea/
Korean Homeland Tours
Affiliated with Catholic Charities in Maryland
Tel : 1-301-989-9164
Email : CaroleCangiano@koreahomelandtours.com
Website : www.koreahomelandtours.com
Korean Roots Tour
Website : www.roottravel.co.kr
※ Contact one of four following agencies for more information :
Spence-Chapin, NY
Tel : 1-212-360-0244
Nancy Wahlin, Email : nwahlin@spence-chapin.org
Family and Children's Agency, CT :
Tel : 1-203-855-8765
Ms.Anne Facto, Email : fcadoption@aol.com
Family Adoption Consultants, OH
Tel : 1-330-468-0673
Barbara Irvin, Email : birvinfac@yahoo.com
TBI General Tours, NH :
Tel : 1-908-823-0320
Lai SooHoo Lum, Email : laitbi@rcn.com
86 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
Korean Ties Program
For adoptive families
Tel : 1-800-398-3676
Email : info@adoptivefamilytravel.com
Website : www.adoptivefamilytravel.com
Sejong Cultural Outreach Korea Trip
Camp Sejong, 5 Willow Court, Park Ridge, NJ 07656
Tel : 1-530-674-2110
Email : lgelber47@comcast.net
EUROPEAN TOUR ORGANIZATIONS
Shilla Travel
Travel agency specializing in tours to South Korea,
run by a Korean adoptee
Postbus 13271, 3507 LG Utrecht, The Netherlands
Tel : 31(0)30 271 76 92, 31(0)30 272 13 84, Fax : 31(0)30 272 02 79
Email : info@shilla.nl
Website : www.shilla.nl
KOREAN TOUR ORGANIZATIONS
Holt Travel Services
Organizes Motherland and Family tours, individual tour packages and manages Holt Guesthouse
Tel : 82-2-338-7774, Fax : 82-2-338-8044
Email : holtra@chollian.net
Website : www.holt.or.kr/travel/main1/main.htm
Eastern Social Welfare Services
Motherland tour affiliated with
Children's Home Society of Minnesota and Dillon International
493 Changchondong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 120-836
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Tel : 82-2-332-3941
Email : postadoption@eastern.or.kr
Website : www.eastern.or.kr
The Overseas Koreans Foundation (OKF)
Summer Cultural Awareness Program for Overseas Adopted Koreans
Annual two-week tour and cultural program
Tel : 82-2-3463-6742, Fax : 82-2-3463-2666
Jeannie Hong, Email : hongjh@okf.or.kr
Website : oaks.hanminjok.net
YWCA
Summer School for Korean Adoptees
Annual program for European adoptees over 18 years of age
Tel : 82-2-3705-6016, Fax : 82-2-3705-6020
Email : sska2004@hotmail.com
Website : www.seoulywca.or.kr/young/sska_about.asp
International Korean Adoptee Services (InKAS)
Summer School
Annual two-week cultural program with tour
Tel : 82-2-3148-0258, Fax : 82-2-3148-0259
Email : inkas21@yahoo.co.kr
Website : inkas.or.kr/eng_default.asp
88 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
ACCOMMODATIONS
SEE www.tour2korea.com
HOTELS
Hotels are classified into five categories : super deluxe (five-star), deluxe (four-star), first class (three-
star), second class (two-star), third class (one-star).
Generally, a double room in a super deluxe hotel costs approximately 200,000-400,000 won ,a
deluxe hotel 150,000-250,000 won, a first class hotel 100,000-150,000, second class 50,000-
100,000 won, third class 30,000-100,000 won. Hotel prices vary depending on season and location.
Hotels above deluxe class usually contain fitness center, sauna, business center, restaurants and
cafes. Hotels often add a 10% VAT and 10% service charge.
YOUTH HOSTELS
Currently there are 52 hostels in South Korea. Hostels are located in famous cities and regions from
tourist sites and downtown areas to places that are difficult to reach. It is a good idea to make a
reservation beforehand. Generally, hostels are very large and offer facilities comparable to deluxe
hotels. Thus, the price varies considerably from 10,000 won (for a single room) to 160,000 won (for a
family room). Persons possessing a Hostelling International Card can receive discounts ranging from
20-30%. Hostelling International Cards are available at various Youth Hostels Association offices
around the world. In Korea, you can get one from the Korea Youth Hostels Association Office for
20,000 won (15,000 won if under 25 years old).
Korea Youth Hostels Association
Address : Jeokseon Hyundai Building Rm.409, Jeokseon-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Tel : 82-2-725-3031, Fax : 82-2-725-3113
Directions : The building is at Gyeongbokgung Station
(Seoul Subway Line No.3) exit 6
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※ For information on other hostels contact the Youth Hostels Association
※ Tel : 82-2-725-3031, Fax : 82-2-725-3113
※ Website : yh.kyha.or.kr/english/index.html
Holders of the Hostelling International Card can receive many benefits such as favorable exchange
rates at Chohung Bank, and a 10-20% discount at Everland, Lotte World, Seoul Land, Mt. Chiaksan
Dreamland, Kumho Car Rental, Han River Cruises, Namsan Seoul Tower, Movie Theaters, etc.
MOTELS/YEOGWANS
The most prevalent type of accommodation in Korea are motels and yeogwans. Many motels and
yeogwans populate the vicinity nearby bus terminals and train stations in large cities. They are easy
to access, and relatirely inexpensive. Reservations are not required unless it is peak season or a
holiday. One to the low price and easy accessibility, conditions are often modest. These
accommodations usually offer ‘On-Dal’ rooms so if you want a western-style room (with a bed) it is a
good idea to check beforehand. The prices vary depending on location and facilities. Generally, the
cost is about 25,000-50,000 won, however prices may increase significantly during peak seasons or
holidays.
Peak seasons : April-May, July-August, October-November. During winter, motels and yeogwans
are usually filled around ski resorts.
See the official website : www.worldinn.com/eng/Main.po
HOMESTAYS
Homestays are the best way to learn and experience Korean culture and lifestyle. The host families
can act as guides and provide profound insight on Korean tourist sites and culture. For a small fee
these host families are willing to share their home and time. Furthermore, an increasing number of
families are offering room and board to foreign travelers. The cost for one night's accommodation
90 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
usually ranges from 25,000-40,000 won. Cheaper rates are available for long-term accommodations.
LABO Korea www.labostay.or.kr
Homestay Korea www.homestaykorea.com
Korea Homestay www.koreahomestay.com
SN Global www.gohomestay.com
Korea Youth Exchange Promotion Association www.kyepa.or.kr
LEX Youth Korea www.lex.or.kr (Korean)
Seoul Homestay Center www.seoulhomestay.com
Also, adoptee service organizations in Korea such as InKAS and IECEF also offer homestay
arrangements (see Resources for Adoptees in Korea).
TEMPLE STAYS
Temple Stays were initially established for foreign tourists during the 2002 World Cup, but with its
continuing popularity and demand, the program has been extended. Temple Stays offer a unique
experience for tourists to live in a Buddhist temple, learn and experience firsthand about Korean
culture and the lifestyle of Buddhist monks. It is a truly unique and special type of accommodation.
Temple Stays operate on an irregular basis depending on the schedules of individual temples.
Applications can be made at the Temple Stay Korea homepage.
Website : www.templestaykorea.net/default_eng.asp
GUESTHOUSES
Guesthouses are inexpensive and are a good way to experience Korean culture and meet other
foreign tourists. Backpackers can receive useful travel information from the owners of the
guesthouse. They also offer special weekend programs that allow foreigners to meet Koreans.
Guesthouses offer foreign tourists the opportunity to learn about Korea firsthand and meet new
Korean friends. Many guesthouses are remodeled family homes (generally sharing bathrooms) and
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are nearby downtown areas and tourist destinations. The price for one night is around 15,000-40,000
won.
KoRoot is a guesthouse exclusively for Korean adoptees (as well as their families and partners) :
www.koroot.org (see Resources for Adoptees in Korea).
Guesthouse Korea www.guesthouseinkorea.com
Seoul Backpackers www.seoulbackpackers.com
Kims Guesthouse www.kimsguesthouse.com
Guesthouse Sinavrow www.sinavrow.com
Friends House www.friends-house.com
Exciting Korea Guesthouse www.excitingkorea.com
Seoul Guesthouse www.seoul110.com
Wow Guesthouse www.wowgh.co.kr
Young Home www.guesthouse-homestay.com
Tuyosinoie www.tuyosi.com
Guesthouse Seoul www.guesthouseseoul.com
Namsan Guesthouse www.namsanguesthouse.com
HANOK
Visitors can also stay at a hanok, a Korean traditional house. It is a unique opprtunity for overseas
visitors to experience the traditional Korean life style. All furniture, windows and other items are
reproductions of a traditional Korean house. Traditional sleeping pads and quilts are provided.
Samcheonggak in Seoul and Jirye Artists Colony and Suaedang in Andong boast beautiful natural
surroundings. Rakgojae, Seoul Guest House in Seoul, and Saehwagwan and Yangsajae in Jeonju
are each located inside a hanok village, where visitors can feel the flavor of old Korean life. Room
rates very. For Samcheonggak, rates are over 200,000 won per room (breakfast not included), but
for most others, rates are under 100,000 won per room (breakfast included).
92 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
SEOUL
Friends House www.friends-house.com
Rakgojae hs-plan.co.kr (Korean)
Samcheonggak www.samcheonggak.or.kr
Seoul Guest House www.seoul110.com
JEONJU
Saehwagwan www.saehwagwan.com
Yangsajae www.jeonjutour.co.kr
ANDONG
Jirye Artists Colony www.jirye.com
Suaedang www.suaedang.com (Korean)
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RESOURCES FOR ADOPTEES IN KOREA
There are a number of organizations in Korea that offer services for adoptees who return to
Korea. Most of these organizations are non-profit, volunteer-based organizations which provide help
with accommodations and homestays, cultural adjustment, translation, language programs, birth
family searches, and employment.
BRIDGE OF ADOPTEES FROM CHONNAM KWANG-JU (B.A.C.K.)
Email : missionjin@yahoo.co.kr
Website : www.back.or.kr
An organization based in the southern city of Kwangju that helps adoptees with birth family
searches, translation, homestays and also promotes domestic adoption in Korea.
GLOBAL OVERSEAS ADOPTEES' LINK(G.O.A.'L)
Seodaemungu Chungjeongno3ga 189-9 Midong APT #512 Seoul, South Korea
Tel : 82-2-365-6585 Fax : 82-2-365-6586 Email : office@goal.or.kr
Website : www.goal.or.kr
G.O.A.'L (Global Overseas Adoptees' Link) was established in Seoul, in March 1998 by a group of
overseas adopted Koreans (OAKs) from Europe and the US, as an independent organization run by
OAKs already living in Korea to assist OAKs during their transition to live in or visit Korea.
The mission of G.O.A.'L is to provide adoptees with a variety of services to ease their stay in
Korea. G.O.A.'L currently offers the following services, birth family search assistance, employment &
94 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
accommodations referrals, translation/interpretation aid, annual conferences, language classes, and
social activities to network with other adoptees and Korean natives affiliated with G.O.A.'L.
Additionally, several Korean language scholarship opportunities are available through various
partnerships with Korean universities in and outside of Seoul.
In February 2002, G.O.A.'L officially registered as a non-profit organization (NPO) and established
a Board of Directors consisting of nine members from various fields interested in the adoptive
community and G.O.A.'L's mission. G.O.A.'L also received non-governmental organizational (NGO)
status in 2004. With both registrations G.O.A.'L hopes to attract more financial assistance through
corporate, institutional and individual sponsorships.
The G.O.A.'L office is currently staffed by OAKs from Europe and the US, as well as native
Koreans. Additionally, a strong and dedicated volunteer and member base reflects the success of
the organization. G.O.A.'L is located on the 5th floor of the Midong Apartment Complex near
Chungjeongno Subway Station, exit #8, on lines #2 (Green) and #5 (Purple). For more information
visit our website at : www.goal.or.kr or email to: office@goal.or.kr.
INTERNATIONAL EDUCATIONAL & CULTURAL EXCHANGE FOUNDATION (IECEF)
Adoptees' Homecoming Support Center
Tel : 82-2-2683-7315 Fax: 82-2-2683-7310 Email : adopteecenter@iecef.org
Website : www.iecef.org
Services offered :
Airport pickup, general orientation in Korea, basic guidance and support, birth family search
assistance, homestays and help with finding employment.
The Adoptees' Homecoming Support Center at IECEF is a non-profit organization dedicated to
providing services to Korean adoptees who want to visit or live in Korea.
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IECEF Homestays
- A great opportunity to experience Korean culture in a unique and supportive environment.
- All host families’ accommodations are evaluated for their location, cleanliness, and safety.
Birth family search assistance
- Adoptees’ search information is posted on the IECEF website and printed in its brochures.
- IECEF provides written and oral translation services for both adoptees and birth families.
- IECEF publishes a book series called The Letter Never Sent written in both English and Korean
languages as part of a continuous effort to assist adoptees with birth family search.
Employment assistance
- IECEF posts job opportunities on its website board and networks with business and organization
contacts to search for potential jobs for adoptees.
If you are thinking about coming to Korea and have any questions, please contact us.
International Educational & Cultural Exchange Foundation (IECEF)
96 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
INKAS: INTERNATIONAL KOREAN ADOPTEE SERVICE
Tel : 82-2-3148-0258 Fax : 82-2-3148-0259 E-mail : inkas21@yahoo.co.kr
Website : www.inkas.or.kr
InKAS is a non-profit organization which protects and serves overseas adoptee and adoptive
family's interests.
We wish to support the development of adoptee pride in their Korean roots through the promotion
of international friendships and by improving Korea's image through collaborative projects with
adoptees and adoptive parents.
Purpose
1. To assist adoptees in establishing their identities and inspiring pride in their ethnic identity.
2. To provide adoptees with a chance to relate to various world cultures through InKAS's volunteer
services.
3. To take the leading part in globalization by acting as non-governmental diplomats.
4. To improve Korea's image held by adoptees, adoptive families, and adopting nations through
InKAS.
5. To provide services in and out of Korea through InKAS
Finding Your Roots
- We can Assist in birth families searches.
- We provide all the resources and do the search for you.
- We also translate letters for you if you wish to correspond with your birth families.
- We will make all the necessary arrangements for you.
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Visiting Korea
- When you visit Korea either as an individual or in a group basis, we provide all the necessary
services such as airport pickup, hotel or homestay arrangements, and provision of guides or
interpreters.
- You can also visit Korea to learn about the Korean culture & language, Korean. In either case,
we will help you with all the necessary arrangements.
- We can help adoptees do volunteer work at places like orphanages while they stay in Korea.
International Exchange
- We will help you form international relationships with Korean families who can speak English.
You can develop friendships and understand each other by exchanging mail or visiting with each
other.
- We will help you make friends with Korean students who can speak English, so you can have a
better understanding of Korea.
- Individual exchange for any individual adoptee over 18 or Family exchange between overseas
adoptive families and domestic families.
98 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
KOROOT : A GUESTHOUSE FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
Tel : 82-2-3210-2451 Fax : 82-2-3210-2452 Email : master@koroot.org
Website : www.koroot.org
KoRoot is a family-style guesthouse that was established in 2003 as an inexpensive place for
adoptees to stay when visiting Korea. Located near downtown Seoul in a quiet neighborhood,
KoRoot offers clean living conditions with all the conveniences and comforts of a home, in beautiful
surroundings.
KoRoot is more than just a guesthouse. We also support the needs of adoptees by offering basic
courses in Korean culture and language, help with finding birthparents, and interpretation and
counseling support following reunions. Adoptees can stay at KoRoot for up to 3 months, and we also
help adoptees make other arrangements if they plan to extend their stay in Korea. KoRoot is a
resource for adoptees, and we want to help convey adoptee voices, thoughts and opinions to Korean
society.
KoRoot recently celebrated its one-year anniversary in July 2004. With one year past, we can look
back on some of our accomplishments. We have had events including our monthly evenings with a
notable Korean, and monthly dinners that bring current residents together with adoptees and other
Koreans living in Seoul. We have also installed facilities for Korean language instruction and offer
basic classes in the Korean language.
We also have many plans for the future. They include offering a weekend course in adjusting to
life in Korea for those adoptees who plan to live and work for an extended period here. We also will
offer programs to visit famous historical or natural sites, as well as organize seminars that bring
adoption specialists and policy makers to discuss adoption-related policies. As part of our goal to
bring adoptee voices to Korean society, we would like to showcase adoptee artists and their creative
work, and we will also be translating adoptee memoirs to be published in Korean.
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KOREAN LANGUAGE AND CULTURAL PROGRAMS
ONLINE COURSES Fax : 82-2-332-6004
Website : www.gkli.co.kr
Teen Korean
Website : www.teenkorean.com Language Teaching Research Center (LTRC)
60-17 Taepyongro 1-ga, Chung-gu, Seoul 100-101
Sogang University Virtual Korean course Tel : 82-2-737-4641, Fax : 82-2-734-6036
Website : korean.sogang.ac.kr/ Email : ltrc@unitel.co.kr
Website : www.ltrc.co.kr
Introduction to Korean
Website : www.unification.org/ucbooks/kintro/toc.htm Seoul Korean Language Academy
4F Jichoun Building, 818-1 Yoksam-dong,
Korean Language Education Clearinghouse Kangnam-gu, Seoul 135-080
Website : www.arts.monash.edu.au/korean/klec Tel : 82-2-563-3226, Fax : 82-2-563-3227
Email : seoul-kla@seoul-kla.com
Korean National Tourism Office Website : www.seoul-kla.com/eng/main_00.htm
List of Korean language programs, Basics of
Korean Language, Romanization rules, Handy
Korean Phrases, Let’s Learn Korean UNIVERSITY PROGRAMS
Website : english.tour2korea.com/02Culture/
KoreanLanguage/learn_korean_language.asp?k ■SEOUL
onum=subm1_1&kosm=m2_9
Yonsei University
Korean Language Institute
LANGUAGE INSTITUTES Institute of Language Research and Education
134 Shinchon-dong, Sodaemun-gu, Seoul 120-749
Ganada Language Institute Tel : 82-2-2123-3464, Fax : 82-2-393-4599
568-51 Yeonnam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, 121-866 Email : yskli@yonsei.ac.kr
Tel : 82-2-332-6003 Website : www.yonsei.ac.kr/~kli/
100 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
Ewha Women's University Konkuk University
Institute of Language Education Foreign Language Institute
11-1 Daehyun-dong, Sodaemun-gu, Seoul 120-750 1 Hwayang-dong Kwanjin-gu, 143-701, Seoul Korea
Tel : 82-2-3277-3183, Fax : 82-2-3277-2855 Tel : 82-2-450-3075/6, Fax : 82-2-455-6709
Email : korean@lu.ewha.ac.kr Website : www.konkuk.ac.kr/~kfli
Website : ile.ewha.ac.kr/english/
Kyung Hee University, Seoul Campus
Seoul National University Institute of International Exchanges
Language Education Institute 1 Hoeki-dong, Dongdaemoon-gu, Seoul 130-70, Korea
Survival Korean Evening Class Tel : 82-2-961-0081~2, Fax : 82-2-959-9018
San 56-1 Shinrim-dong, Kwanak-gu, Seoul 151-742 Email : iie@khu.ac.kr
Tel : 82-2-880-8570 / 5488 Website : www.iie.ac.kr
Email : klp@snu.ac.kr
Website : language.snu.ac.kr/ Sungkyunkwang University
Language Institute
Sogang University Humanities and Social Sciences Campus
Center for Korean Studies 53 Myeongnyun-dong 3-ga Jongno-gu Seoul 110-
1, Shinsu-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul 121-742, Korea 745, Korea
Tel : 82-2-705-8088, Fax : 82-2-701-6692 Website : eng.skku.edu/admission/D4a.html
Email : ckss@sogang.ac.kr
Website : www.sogang.ac.kr/~ckss Kyung Hee University, Suwon Campus
Institute of Continuing Education
Korea University 1 Seochun-ni, Kiheung-eup Yongin City, Kyunggi-do
Institute of Foreign Language Studies Tel : 82-331-201-2277, Fax : 82-331-205-7142
Korean Language & Culture Center Email : khwd8319@khu.ac.kr
5-1 Anam-dong, Sungbuk-gu, Seoul 136-701
Korea ■ Gwangju
Tel : 82-2-3290-1455, 82-2-927-3690
Fax : 82-2-921-0534 Chosun University
Website : langtopia.korea.ac.kr Korean Language Institute
101
375 Seosuk-dong, Dong-gu, Gwangju 501-759, Korea CULTURAL PROGRAMS
Tel : 82-62-230-6667,6674,7329
Fax : 82-62-234-6769 Inje University Institute for International
Website : www.chosun.ac.kr/~z5018 Human Resources (IIIHR)
Website : www.chosun.ac.kr/~z5018/korlec.htm Website : home.inje.ac.kr/~iiihr
� WHAT IS IIIHR?
■ DAEGU The IIIHR is a non-profit educational institution
attached to Inje University, located in Kimhae,
Institute of International Studies & Programs Kyungnam, Korea. The institute started with a
Jillyang, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk 712-714, Korea program to invite a few young Korean Americans,
Tel : 82-53-850-5686, Fax : 82-53-850-5689 who were adopted by American families as
Email : iisp@daegu.ac.kr children, to live on campus for a period of four
Website : free.taegu.ac.kr/~iisp/english/ months, to study the Korean language, history
Website : eng_index.htm and culture, and to arrange short trips to different
Scholarship Opportunities cultural or historical sites around the country
Though the institute is providing the program only
■ NONSAN for the Korean adoptees, it will develop various
programs to provide service for various young
Geumgang University overseas Koreans including the ones from
14-9 Daemyung-ri, Sangwol-myeon, Nonsan-si, emigrant families
Chungnam 320-931, Korea
Tel : 82-41-731-3114, Fax : 82-41-731-3049 Ajou University Summer School
Director Hakyong Leigh, Email : leigh@gu.ac.kr Office of the International Affairs, Ajou University
Website : www.geumgang.ac.kr/en/international/ San 5 Wonchun-dong Youngtong-gu
Website : i_kor_int_01.html Suwon 442-749, Korea
Scholarships offered for all successful Tel : 82-31-219-2921-5, Fax : 82-31-219-2924
applicants. Scholarships include tuition waiver, Email : inter@ajou.ac.kr or iss@ajou.ac.kr
housing and an added stipend for volunteer work Website : www.ajou.ac.kr/~internat/inter/
as a language exchange partner Website : summer.htm
Ajou University provides an excellent six-week
102 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
international summer school program in Korean or Asian studies and International Business taught in
English, offering a wonderful opportunity for foreign students to explore Korea and its culture. Not
only are classes offered that can be transferred for credits, but there are also special activities, field
trips, language programs, and other events for students to explore and learn about Korea and its
culture during the summer vacation. Students who enroll in our international summer session will
experience fun filled activities such as an end of session party and field trips to the historical sites in
Korea. It is an excellent opportunity to visit Korea, and experience its rich culture and society.
Yonsei University
Division of International Education and Exchange (DIEE) Summer Session
Website : www.yonsei.ac.kr/~ysid/
INTERNATIONAL SUMMER SESSION
Scholarships available.
Ewha Women's University
International Co-Ed Summer School
Website : iei.ewha.ac.kr/
Application Deadline : May 31 of each year
Scholarships available, including the Korean Adoptee Fellowship at Ewha (KAFE), for two qualified
applicants each year
Korea University
Institute of International Education
Summer Campus
Scholarships available based on academic performance
Unju Rah, Program Manager
Tel : 82-2-3290-1596
Email : unju_rah@korea.ac.kr
Website : iie.korea.ac.kr/
103
Pusan National University
Summer Korean Program
Office of Public and Foreign Affairs
Pusan National University, Pusan 609-755
Tel : 82-51-510-3653, Fax : 82-51-582-6980
Email : summer@home.pusan.ac.kr
Website : home.pusan.ac.kr/~summer
LANGUAGE STUDY FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Korea Foundation Fellowships (Graduate Students and Professors)
Deadline July 31stof the year previous to the year of study
Fellowship Program Department
Tel : 82-2-3463-5614, Fax : 82-2-3463-6075
E-mail : fellow@kf.or.kr
Website : www.kf.or.kr/english/guideline/g1.html
The Korea Society Language Study Scholarship
For recent university graduates or graduate students who have a clearly defined interest in Korea.
U.S. citizens only.
Two language scholarships per year. Deadline in late March.
Contact : Rebecca Brabant
Tel 82-212-759-7525 (ext. 326)
Email : rebecca.ny@koreasociety.org
Website : www.koreasociety.org
104 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
FINDING A JOB IN KOREA : AN OVERVIEW
KELLI DONIGAN
OVERVIEW
For Korean overseas adoptees who are either thinking about coming to Korea to live or who are in
Korea for a duration, one of the primary needs is finding a job. However, the task of finding a job in
Korea is quite tedious and overwhelming especially if you don't know where to begin or who to
contact. Since 1999, G.O.A.L. (Global Overseas Adoptees Link) has offered an employment service
to help minimize the difficulty of looking for employment and to provide a network of contact
information between interested Korean employers and overseas adoptees.
To answer some common inquiries, we have provided a basic overview of what types of jobs are
available for Korean overseas adoptees, where and how to begin looking for jobs, certain
expectations, some personal advice about finding employment in Korea as well as some personal
anecdotes from two other adoptees who are living in Korea.
TYPES OF JOB POSITIONS IN KOREA
� Private Foreign Language Institutes (Hagwons)
� Private Business Programs (for large corporate groups such as LG, Hyundai)
� University Language Institutes - University Academic departments
- Highest hiring standards; most instructors have MA degrees in TESOL and years of
teaching experience.
�Government / Private research centers
- Degrees in the humanities, economics, or business administration as full-time editors.
- Editors proofread correspondence and research publications, write speeches, and
occasionally teach.
�Editing / Public Relations / Advertising companies / Journalism
- Hired as copy editors; very hard to obtain since they are popular
105
�Private tutoring / Informal Classes
- Technically illegal except with an F-4 visa. Part-time instruction at a second institute is legal
only with permission from the sponsoring institute and Korean immigration authorities.
- Private tutoring pays more per hour, but sometimes is hard to maintain long-term
�IT Venture Companies / Marketing / Overseas Trading Companies
- Requires specialty skills in IT field, and have at least a minimal if not fluent ability in Korean
or another foreign language.
WHERE AND HOW TO START LOOKING
1) It's recommended that you look first in your home country. Do research by surfing the Internet
to learn more about the job market in Korea and what kind of job it is you want. Make sure to
continue to update your resume and have a cover letter as well.
2) Visit the websites of either the Institutes, or company you are interested in. What the company's
culture like? Who are its leaders? What's the company's mission statement, and what is it
looking for in its employees? What distinguishes this company from its competitors? If satisfied
and interested, send your resume along with a cover letter if needed.
3) It is important to figure out what exactly What you want to do and in which field. From here,
contact employers or companies of interest directly either via email or by phone.
4) Networking : seeking employment through friends, colleagues, and acquaintances are good
ways but don't stop there, look into different organizations, headhunter/job agencies, and
foreign chambers of commerce in Korea to assist you in looking for jobs.
5) Also, contacting executive search consultants and recruiters is a good way to help find
employment opportunities. However, it's important to understand how recruiters operate.
Recruiters find people for jobs, not jobs for people. However, if you make the effort to meet with
a recruiter in person (as opposed to simply sending them your resume), the odds are that they'll
remember you when a job comes along that you're qualified for.
106 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
6) In this tough job market, having good etiquette can make all the difference in the world. Be sure
to return calls promptly, write thank-you letters after interviews, turn off your cell phone during
meetings, and decline a job offer-rather than hold onto it-if you know you're not going to accept
it. Politeness and etiquette show great integrity and respect to everyone you are in contact with
during your job search.
WHAT TO EXPECT AND NOT TO EXPECT
1) Expect it to take some time. The current economic situation is not so good and because of this
slump, employment growth in Korea has been stagnating and finding a job is highly competitive
for both native Koreans and foreigners/adoptees. If you can't find a job right away, don't be too
discouraged-keep trying. Just be patient; a suitable job will turn up. Don't be too rash.
2) Expect a wax and wane period occasionally. If you are a teacher, for instance, some times
there may be no vacancies at all, and at other times there may be an unusualy high demand
for teachers all at once, but hardly any applicants. This is why its good to consult around on a
regular basis. Not only does the stability of the economy have to due with finding a job, but
good timing. A good time to apply for Universities is during December - February and also from
May - July. This is usually their recruiting period.
3) Don't expect the same conditions as you would at home. It is Korea; not America, not Europe.
So as frustrating or incomprehensible as it may seem, there are different standards and
regulations in Korea as well as for foreigners. As adoptees we are considered foreigners.
Make sure you learn about some of the basic standards or rules in your place of employment
and what is expected from you.
4) Don't be too picky or demanding. If you come off this way, you'll end up with no job. Usually, if
you are hired, especially in a Korean business company, you will most likely be one of the few
foreigners/adoptees, if not the only one. It's a challenge for Koreans as well as
foreigners/adoptees to work together. Most Korean employees want to find someone who is
107
willing to make some compromises and is willing to negotiate.
5) Don't take things too literally. Just because Koreans say something or even promise
something verbally; doesn't mean that it will happen. For a business or English Institute, I
would recommend having the agreement of working terms written out thoroughly and
explained to you. Make sure you have things in a written contract and signed by you end
employer.
Try to find someone in whom you can trust and work with well to help meditate or translate. You
just have to use your sixth sense or instinct in some cases.
ADVICE
Since I've been here for over 6 years, I'd like to share with you some invaluable tips that helped
me to adjust and make life in Korea a little less complicated and more enjoyable :
Be Proactive! This means be your own resource! There are many resources through the
Internet and organizations, but don't always rely on them to help you. They can only do so much.
Do not wait for a job advertisement to come your way! Answer it! The first step in being your own
resource, take the initiative to find what it is you are looking for; market yourself; do some research
of the field you are interested in. Create a network of friends or business contacts who you can
trust and help you. And you'll feel great knowing that you at least tried and made an effort!
Get a handphone-used or new (It's a ubiquious and addicting item)! If you happen to not have
one, it's really hard to have people contact you, especially if you are out and about, and it's a bit
isolating. Careful though, don't go too fanatic since it could be costly depending on how much you
use it. This may be another reason why you need to find a job quickly!
I wish you lots of luck finding a job here and enjoy yourself in Korea. The new employment
coordinator of G.O.A.L is Mun, Kyung Hee. If you have further questions, please contact
Kyunghee's job website at www.cafe.daum.net/jobinfo, where you can upload your resume and
make inquiries.
Happy Job Hunting!
108 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
TROUVER UN JOB EN CORÉE
PAR KELLI DONIGAN
Traduit par Eric
VUE D'ENSEMBLE
Pour les adoptés étrangers qui pensent a venir s'installer en Corée du Sud ou qui viennent pour une
longue periode, l'un des besoins primaire et de Trouver un travail. Cependant, la recherche d'un
emploi en Corée est assez fastidieuse et éprouvante surtout si vous ne savez pas par ou
commencer ou qui contacter. Depuis 1999, G.O.A.L. (Lien Global pour Adoptés) a mis en place un
service d'emploi afin de réduire les difficultés á rechercher un travail et afin de fournir un centre de
contact entre les employeurs Coréen interessé et les Coréens adoptés.
Afin de répondre aux questions les plus fréquentes sur ce sujet, nous avons mis en place une
répertoire basique sur lequel on peut trouver les genres d'emploi valable pour les Coréens adoptés,
ou et comment commencer, certaines attentes, conseils personnel sur le fait de trouver un emploi, et
aussi quelques anecdoctes personnelle de la part de deux adoptés vivant actuellement en Corée.
TYPES D'EMPLOI EN CORÉE DU SUD
� Instituts Privée de Langues Etrangère (Hagwons)
� Programmes Privées en commerce (pour les grands groupes comme LG, Hyundai)
� Instituts de Langues Universitaire - Département d'Enseignement Universitaire
� � - Meilleures conditions requise; la plupart des instructeurs ont une Maîtrise en TESOL
(eq : diplôme d'enseignant en Langues étrangère )et des années d'experience dans
l'enseignement.
� Gouvernement/centre Privé de recherche.
� Diplôme en Science humaines, économies, commerce ou administration en tant que
éditeurs a plein temps.
� � - Editeur/correcteur en correspondance et publications de recherches, rédaction des
discours, et enseigner occasionellement.
� Rédaction / Relations Publique / Compagnies publicitaire/ Journalisme
109
� � - Engagé en tant qu'éditeur de pages; très dure a obtenir car c'est très populaire
� Cours & Classes privées
� � - en théorie illegal. L'enseignement a mi-temps dans une seconde institut est légale
seulement avec l'accord de l'institut sponsorisant et l'office d'immigration en Corée.
� � - Les cours privés rapportent plus de l'heure, mais sont dur a maintenir a long terme
� entreprises informatiques / Marketing / Compagnies étrangère
� � - Cela demande des connaissances en informatique, et aussi parler un minimum de
Coréen si ce n'est pas courant ou une autre langue.
OU ET COMMENT COMMENCER
1) Il est recommendé que vous cherchiez déja avant de venir en Corée. Faites des recherches en
surfant sur internet afin d'apprendre plus sur le marché de l'emploi en Corée et afin de définir le
genre d'emploi que vous desirez. Assurez-vous de tenir a jour votre CV et d' avoir une lettre de
motivation.
2) Visitez les sites web des Instituts, ou enterprises auquels vous êtes interessé. Comment est
l'esprit de l'entreprise? Qui sont ses dirigeants? Quel est son mot d'ordre, et qu'est qu'elle
attends de ses employés? Qu'est-ce qui distingue cette enterprise de ses concurrents? Et si
vous êtes satisfait et interressé, envoyez votre CV et votre lettre de motivation si besoin.
3) Il est très important de définir ce que vous voulez faire éxactement ou dans quel branche.
Partant de lá, contactez les employeurs ou les compagnies directement par email ou
téléphone.
4) Dans votre entourage : chercher un emploi a travers vos amis, collègues, et connaissances
sont de bonnes debouchées mais ne vous arretez pas lá, cherchez aussi dans les autres
organisations, les chasseurs de tête/agence d'interim, et chambre de commerce internationale
en Corée afin de vous aider a Trouver des emplois.
110 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
5) Aussi, contacter des cadres consultants et recruteurs est un bon moyen de trouver des
opportunités. Cependant, il est important de comprendre comment les recruteurs travaillent.
Les recruteurs trouvent des personnes pour des emplois, et non des emplois pour des
personnes. Néanmoins, si vous faites l'effort de rencontrer les recruteurs en personne (au lieu
d'envoyer votre CV), vous aurez plus de chance qu'ils se souviennent de vous si une occasion
se présente et que vous êtes qualifié.
6) Dans ce rude marché de l'emploi, avoir une bonne étiquette peut faire toute la différence du
monde. Soyez sûr de répondre aux appels téléphonique dans les temps, ecrivez des lettres de
remerciement après avoir passé des interviews, éteignez votre portable pendant les
entretiens, et refusez une offre d'emploi au lieu de les mettre en attente si vous savez déja que
vous n'allez pas la prendre. La politesse et une bonne apparance montre une grande intégrité
et un respect vis a vis des gens avec qui vous êtes en contact durant votre recherche
d'emploi.
A QUOI S'ATTENDRE ET NE PAS S'ATTENDRE
1) Attendez vous a ce que cela prenne du temps. La situation économique actuelle n'est pas très
bonne et a cause de la crise , l'évolution du marché de l'emploi en Corée a stagné, et trouver
un emploi est très compétitif pour les Coréens et les étrangers/adoptés. Si vous ne pouvez pas
trouver d'emploi tout de suite, ne soyez pas decouragé perséverez. Soyez patient; une
opportunité va s'ouvrir. Ne soyez pas trop imprudent.
2) Attendez vous á avoir des hauts et des bas de temps á autre. Si vous êtes enseignant, par
exemple, vous n'aurez aucune debouchées des fois comme d'autre fois vous aurez une
demande massive d'enseignants arrivant tout d'un coup, mais très peu de candidats. C'est
pourquoi il est bon de consulter les offres régulièrement. La stabilité de l'économie n'est pas le
seul facteur dans la recherche d'emploi mais un "bon timing" compte aussi. Une bonne période
pour postuler dans les universités est aux alentours de décembre- Février et aussi Mai - Juillet.
C'est habituellement leurs période de recrutrement.
111
3) Ne vous attendez pas á avoir les même conditions que dans le pays oú vous habitez. Ici, c'est
la Corée du Sud; pas les USA, pas l'Europe. Alors aussi frustrant ou incompréhensible qu'il
soit, il y a different standards et règles en Corée valable aussi pour les étrangers. En tant
qu'adoptés nous sommes considerés comme étrangers. Assurez-vous d'apprendre les règles
ou les coutumes basique dans votre lieu de travail et aussi ce que l'on attends de vous.
4) Ne soyez pas trop difficile ou capricieux. Si vous partez comme ca, vous allez finir sans
emploi. D'habitude, si vous êtes embauché, surtout dans une compagnie Coréenne, vous
serez probablement l'un des seul étrangers/adoptés, si ce n'est pas le seul. C'est un défi pour
les Coréens aussi bien que pour les étrangers/adoptés de travailler ensemble. La plupart des
employés Coréen veulent trouver quelqu'un qui soit prêt a faire des compromis et quelqu'un
qui puisse négotier.
5) Ne prenez pas les toutes les choses a la lettre. Même si les Coréens disent quelque chose ou
font des promesses oralement ; cela ne veut pas dire que ca va arriver. Pour un business ou
une Institut d'anglais, je vous recommenderais d'obtenir un accord sur les conditions de travails
écrit minutieusement et expliqués en details. Assurez-vous d'avoir un contrat écrit et signé par
vous et l'employeur.
Essayez de trouver quelqu'un avec qui vous pouvez travailler et avoir confiance afin de vous aider á
traduire et réflechir. Vous devez juste utiliser votre sixième sens ou instinct dans certain cas.
CONSEIL
J'aimerais vous donner quelques conseils les plus important qui m'ont aidé a rendre plus de 6 ans de
ma vie en Corée moins compliqué et plus plaisante :
Soyez Proactif! Ca veut dire soyez votre propre ressource! Il ya plein de ressources a travers
internet et les organisations, mais ne comptez toujours pas sur elles pour vous aider. Elle ne
112 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
peuvent pas tout faire. N'attendez pas qu'une annonce arrive a votre porte! Répondez y! Le premier
pas en étant votre propre ressource, est de prendre l'initiative de Trouver ce que vous cherchez
vous-même; analysez vous-même; faites des recherches sur les branches qui vous interessent.
Créez un groupe d'amis ou de contacts business qui peuvent vous aider et en qui vous pouvez
compter. Et vous vous sentirez rayonnant sachant que, au moins vous avez fait l'effort d'essayer!
Prenez un téléphone portable- neuf ou d'occasion (c'est un outil omniprésent/ vous rendant tres
dependant)! Si vous n'en avez pas, ce sera très difficile pour les gens de vous contacter, surtout si
vous n'êtes jamais au même endroit, et c'est un peu isolant. Attention cependant, ne devenez pas
trop fanatique ca pourrait vous coûter chère selon le temps que vous passez au téléphone. Ca
pourrait être une autre raison pourquoi vous devez trouver un emploi assez vite!
Je vous souhaite beaucoup de chances dans votre recherche d'emploi et amusez-vous bien en
Corée du Sud. Le nouveau responsable de la section de l'emploi a G.O.A.L est Mun, Kyung Hee. Si
vous avez d'autres questions, contactez le site internet de Kyunghee sur l'emploi a
www.café.daum.net/jobinfo, oú vous pouvez transmettre votre CV et formuler des demandes.
Bonne chasse a l'emploi!
113
PERSONAL WORK EXPERIENCES
AND ADVICE ABOUT KOREA
DANIEL WOO YEOL, FROM FRANCE
I am working as a software engineer in a Korean company providing anti-virus and other security
software. They had contacted me first when I was in France. They were interested in hiring an
experienced foreigner, with specialty skills. I am the first foreigner to work in the Korean headquarters
of this company; I am supposed to help them understand Western culture and the European market
better to make the work more efficient and to fit Western demands.
If you are looking for an opportunity to work in a Korean IT company, you must have some advanced
degree (at least a Masters) and some proven skills. If you can speak reasonable English and some
German it would help a lot. You shouldn't expect to earn the same salary you would get in some
Western countries, but at least you can ask for a decent, competitive salary.
From what I know the best option is to apply for an overseas IT job when you are still in your country;
most of the people working in an IT company signed their contract before coming to Korea. That is
safer because of the economic crisis. Don't be too surprised if Korean people sometimes do not keep
their word, but they usually respect signed contracts.
LISA HANSON, FROM AMERICA
I have been Korea for almost one year. I came on the heels of finishing graduate work in New York. I
have worked for five months at The Korea Times and four months at Herald Media, which owns The
Korea Herald.
The Work
Stories are easy to find. The hard part is being able to tell them in a full way. Many young people in
Korea speak English. However, the older generation, which normally comprises the "official voice"
for a story, is largely non-English speaking. If you are persistent and have the time, you can
always find a way to get around this by adopting a new angle or finding (or paying) a friend to
translate for you. But you may, as I do, always feel a little bit like you missed something crucial.
114 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
The People
The majority of people in management positions are proficient in English. However, complete fluency
and a firm grasp of the language are largely non-existent. This can cause problems for you,
especially if you have specialized training in English and/or journalism. My best advice is to be
patient. Your words might be changed to Konglish. And, some editors may dismiss your suggestions.
But, be patient.
More than age or gender, both companies appreciate your commitment. After awhile, you will find
that people trust you more and are more willing to take your advice.
115
EXPERIENCES ET CONSEIL PERSONNELS
SUR L'EMPLOI EN CORÉE DU SUD
DANIEL WOO YEOL, FROM FRANCE
Je travaille en tant qu'ingénieur dans une société coréenne qui développe des antivirus et autres outils de
sécurité informatique. ILS m'ont contacté lorsque j'étais en France. Ils souhaitaient recruter un étranger
expérimenté. Je suis le premier étranger dans leur siège coréen. Je suis supposé les aider à mieux cerner
la culture de l'Occident, mais aussi à changer leurs habitudes de travail, pour s'adapter au modèle
international.
Pour rejoindre vous aussi une société coréenne dans le secteur informatique, il vous faut d'abord des
diplômes (maîtrise au minimum), et de l'expérience. Si vous parlez correctement Anglais et Allemand,
c'est un plus évident. Mais ne pensez pas obtenir ici les salaires de l'Occident. Vous pouvez au moins
prétendre a un salaire décent.
Selon ma propre expérience, le mieux reste d'être sûr d'un emploi avant de venir ici. Avec la crise c'est
plus prudent. Et si les Coréens ne respectent pas toujours leurs promesses verbales, ils ne trichent pas
avec les contrats écrits, à l'inverse des Chinois.
LISA HANSON, DES USA
Cela fait Presque un an que je suis en Corée. Je suis arrivé a la fin de mes études a New York. Et j'ai
travaillé pendant cinq mois au The Korea Times et quatre mois au Herald Media, qui détient The Korea
Herald.
Le travail
Les histoires sont facile á trouver. La partie la plus dure et de pouvoir les raconter en entier. Beaucoup de
jeunes gens en Corée parlent anglais. Cependant, la plus ancienne géneration, qui normallement detient
la "parole officielle" pour une histoire, ne parle pas anglais pour la plupart d'entre eux. Si vous avez le
temps et persistez, vous pouvez toujours trouver un moyen afin de per er la barrière de la communication
en choisissant un nouvel angle ou en trouvant (ou en payeant) un ami qui peut traduire pour vous. Mais
vous vous sentiriez un peu comme si vous avez manqué quelque chose de crucial.
116 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
Les gens
La majorité des gens en poste de direction peuvent parler un bon anglais. Cependant, il est Presque
improbable de trouver des personnes parlant couramment ou très bien la langue. Cela peut vous causer
des problèmes, surtout si vous avez été formé en anglais et/ou en journalisme. Mon meilleur conseil est
d'être patient. Vos mots pourraient être changé en "Konglais". Et, certain rédacteurs pourraient abandoner
vos suggestions. Mais, soyez patient.
Plus que l'age ou le sexe, les compagnies apprecient votre devouement. Plus tard, vous allez decouvrir
que les gens vous font plus confiance et sont prêt a prendre plus en compte vos conseils.
117
TEACHING ENGLISH IN KOREA
Because English has become the global language of business and trade, for Koreans, securing a
good job often requires one to demonstrate a good command of the English language. For this
reason, demand for native-English speaking teachers is very high, at public schools, private
institutes, universities, and through private tutoring. Students range in age from small children to high
school students, businesspeople to housewives.
Here are some links to job recruitment companies, job postings websites and other ESL-related
websites.
Apex Korea www.apexkor.com
Asian Job Network www.asianjob.net
Dave's ESL Cafe www.eslcafe.com
Easy English Consulting www.eze365.com
Ejobfair www.ejobfair.net
English Spectrum www.englishspectrum.com
English Job in Korea www.englishjob.net
EnglishWork www.englishwork.com
English Program in Korea
(government-sponsored university teaching program) epik.knue.ac.kr/
ESL Career eslcareer.com
ESL Pro www.eslpro.com
ESL Worldwide eslworldwide.com
OMEGA www.eslcafekr.com
Family Care www.familycare21.com
Find a Teacher www.findateacher.co.kr
Good Luck English www.goodluckenglish.com
Julice's Korean Job www.julice.co.kr
Korea Joblink www.koreajoblink.com
KORJOB www.korjob.com
Okay Korea .com www.okaykorea.com
Teach English www.teachenglish.co.kr
TransKorea2000 www.transkorea2000.com
The Korea Herald www.koreaherald.co.kr/job/kh_ joblink.asp
118 GUIDE TO KOREA FOR OVERSEAS ADOPTED KOREANS
ENGLISH MEDIA IN KOREA
Description Nmae Web-site
Newspaper Korea Herald www.koreaherald.co.kr
Korea Times www.koreatimes.co.kr/times.htm
Joongang daily joongangdaily.joins.com
Donga daily english.donga.com
Chosun Ilbo english.chosun.com
Hankyoreh www.hani.co.kr/section-001100000/home01.html
Yonhap News english.yna.co.kr
NewsOnKorea www.newsonkorea.com
OhmyNews english.ohmynews.com
Korea Web Weekly www.kimsoft.com/korea.htm
The Seoul Times www.theseoultimes.com
koreaweb koreaweb.ws
Gateway to Korea www.korea.net
New on Korea www.newsonkorea.com
The Peninsula Reports www.newsonkorea.com
TV KBS english.kbs.co.kr
Arirang TV www.arirangtv.com
AFN Korea www.afnkorea.net
Radio Arirang FM www.arirangfm.com
AFN www.afnkorea.net
TBS Radio www.tbs.seoul.kr
Magazine Seoul Selection www.seoulselection.com
Seoul Classidied www.seoulclassified.co.kr
