I'd like to take the time to reply as this review may be making it difficult for my school to find my replacement. I took over after this teacher, and while I was not present for the 2017-2018 year, judging from the above review and the testimony of those who were there, it's a night and day difference. From last year's staff, only 2 teachers stayed on--- a very kind and quiet Korean English teacher, and a shell-shocked English native teacher. Both were keen on a fresh start after 3 Korean teachers left. We hired 2 new Korean teachers and they are both hardworking, funny, and friendly. Since getting to know them, my life here has gotten easier and easier. We function well as a little family, and I will really miss them when I go.
At first though, it was tough. It was my first time really teaching, and in a new country, and all the stuff that goes with it. But I've learned that to thrive here, you just need to be flexible and not take anything personally. There have been many frustrating times, but in the end, I just sum it up to, "Well, that's Korea."
The lessons are almost all pre-made for you, and I've made a personal policy of not working outside of my 9-6 hours and I've only ever stayed late or come in early twice, for projects that I wanted to do a little extra on. This is not a desk-warming job, but instead calls for someone to be organized and ready to change course quickly. Because of the busy nature, I find the days go by quite fast.
In regards to my personal safety and privacy, I never felt invaded or spied on. The only time my boss has been at my door was when I overslept and was 45 minutes late for work (super embarrassing... but judging from their faces they genuinely thought I might be dead lol).
Anyway, we've been trying to find a suitable teacher to come and replace me, and it's coming time for me to leave and we're still looking. I thought maybe the right replacement for me could see the former review and pass over an opportunity that has changed so much since that time. I truly feel badly to leave my awesome coworkers here and I don't want them left high and dry. If anyone wants more info, feel free to contact me and I can provide more about my experiences.