I had the fun and pleasure today of making it to the Anguk Immigration Office to renew / extend my visa. Since I am staying at my school it was necessary for me to go to immigration and get this done on my own.
The documents I needed were pretty basic, compared to getting a new visa. This time all I needed was a copy of my contract, school's registration, passport..alien card...and other ones. Hehe you can check the immigration website.
Out of exit 6 you go up to the SK Hub building and take the stairs to the 2nd floor. Find your way to the big room with all the chairs and people sitting in them. Find the ticket machine and press the green button hard enough to make a ticket come out.
I didn't wait too long, and soon was sitting behind an English speaking assistant. I did have to run around for a few things to complete the process. Like buying the stamps from a different room and also making copies of my passport pages. In addition, I was made to scan my fingerprints. Finally, after all that I received my alien card back with a new date entered on the back. It was quite easy and probably would have went even faster had I made an appointment. Overall, I'm pretty happy and satisfied with my experience at immigration today. Hope all future immigration trips will be just as easy.
Showing posts with label immigration. Show all posts
Showing posts with label immigration. Show all posts
Friday, January 27, 2012
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Visa Issuance Docs Ready To Go!
I am so excited, because today I got a lovely surprise in the mail. My FBI check returned several days early with its Apostille on it. This means I can go ahead and FedEx my document package off to my school so to get the visa issuance number. After I get that little thing I then can proceed to the Korean consulate and get my visa stamp. Of course this is my third time doing this, but it seems like this round was a bit more complicated.
Here is a list of the documents I am sending to get the visa issuance number for 2011:
Here is a list of the documents I am sending to get the visa issuance number for 2011:
· 2 Photos
· Copy of my Passport ID page
· Application for Visa
· Copy of the employment contract
· Health statement
· FBI Check with Apostille
· Apostille copy of my BA degree
· Apostille copy of my AA degree
· 2 Letters of recommendation
· TESL/TEFL certificate
· Resume
· Certificate of Employment from previous employer
I think a few of those things might be in excess, but I definitely feel it is better to send more for safety sake.
Below is a scan of the Apostille paper that is attached to the FBI check. You will note the difference between this one and an Apostille from your State is that this one isn't that flashy.
Once again I hope all of this comes in handy for those getting a new visa within this new year.
Let's recap.
- FBI received documents on 10/18/2010. Documents were completed and returned on 12/23/2010. About 9 weeks.
- Time for FBI doc to come back with Apostille from the Secretary of State in Washington DC. About 1.5 weeks.
- Total time to complete FBI Background check with Apostille = 10 - 11 weeks.
I'm so happy!
Saturday, January 8, 2011
FBI Christmas Present
I haven't mentioned it, but when I got back from our vacation in SF my FBI background check was waiting for me. It was a great Christmas present as it put my worries to rest. As soon as I got it I packed it up with a cover letter and sent if off to the Secretary of State to get the apostille seal.
Since this was my second time doing this process I thought I would share with you guys the results. The result page is kind of different from last time, since I requested the FBI to put their seal on it. The new FBI background check result page looks very official. Below for you is my scanned copy, with of course the naughty bits blurred out.
As you can see it looks very official and certainly a lot better than what they use to give out, which was your fingerprint page with the stamp "NO RECORD".
Along with this document was a letter telling me about their new process and why they don't issue an apostille, but where I could get one.
In "official" speak they basically tell you to send your document off to the Secretary of State following their guidelines to get the apostille.
The big question for some is, "How long does it take to get the FBI Background Check back?" To put minds at ease this part of the process, from FBI receiving to coming back in my hands, took about 9 weeks approximately. Keep in mind this was during the holiday season so they likely had a few days off here and there.
I still feel it is important for anyone who is at a point in the Korean job market, whether thinking of renewing or transferring, to go ahead and get this document. You really never know if your school will 100% resign you or whether transferring will go smoothly. If you know your job is coming to end in say 2 - 3 months go ahead and work on getting this document. (It's good for 6 months anyways!) For sure it will make things easier if you get into a situation where you have to get a new visa.
Anyways, I hope this stuff helps other folks out there and I will let you know when I get the whole thing back with the apostille (about another week and a half).
Since this was my second time doing this process I thought I would share with you guys the results. The result page is kind of different from last time, since I requested the FBI to put their seal on it. The new FBI background check result page looks very official. Below for you is my scanned copy, with of course the naughty bits blurred out.
Along with this document was a letter telling me about their new process and why they don't issue an apostille, but where I could get one.
The big question for some is, "How long does it take to get the FBI Background Check back?" To put minds at ease this part of the process, from FBI receiving to coming back in my hands, took about 9 weeks approximately. Keep in mind this was during the holiday season so they likely had a few days off here and there.
I still feel it is important for anyone who is at a point in the Korean job market, whether thinking of renewing or transferring, to go ahead and get this document. You really never know if your school will 100% resign you or whether transferring will go smoothly. If you know your job is coming to end in say 2 - 3 months go ahead and work on getting this document. (It's good for 6 months anyways!) For sure it will make things easier if you get into a situation where you have to get a new visa.
Anyways, I hope this stuff helps other folks out there and I will let you know when I get the whole thing back with the apostille (about another week and a half).
Friday, December 4, 2009
Osaka Visa Run: How I Did It
This will be my information of my experience of doing the Osaka Visa Run. I stayed there for 6 days so I had plenty of time to get accustomed to the transportation system and local neighborhood near the Korean Consulate.
Head towards the signs that read "subway" so that you can follow your way to the public transportation options.
Transportation Passes:
Before heading directly to the train stop for a minute at the Tourist Information Center located on the first floor. You want to stop at the "Travel Desk" because you can purchase a very important train pass called the "Kansai Thru Pass"
For just 5,000 Yen for a 3 day pass or 3,800 for a 2 day pass you can use this to ride the Osaka City Subway and buses both in Osaka and Kyoto.
It is a lot easier than having to figure out which ticket to buy at the station. Also when you transfer from one Osaka subway line to another you have to buy a separate ticket. This saves you the hassle.
**Also you get a complimentary Kansai guide with train and bus map that is amazingly useful!
**In this area also look for more maps and tourist information.
And yes! It will allow you to ride from the airport to Namba station, on the Nankai line, which is where you are going.
If you plan on staying longer than 2 days consider getting the JR Subway pass. JR subway is a private line and more expensive but it can easily take you to places like Kyoto and has rapid service trains that are really fast. I would recommend getting a 3 day pass depending on how far you want to travel.
You will get the JR West Kansai Pass and to get it you have to show your passport. Also the ticket booth is in the train entrance area which means you have to make the next move and leave the airport terminal building and go to the train station.
But the best way I found to plan out what train to take was to use these trip planning websites:
1. Nankai "RAPIT" which costs the most but is the fastest...but not really that much faster.
2. Nankai "Airport Express"... makes major stops before arriving at Namba but pretty fast.
3. Nankai "Local" makes every stop before arriving at Namba....slow but you can enjoy the scenery.
You can use the Kansai Thru Pass on all of these EXCEPT the "RAPIT". You can take the RAPIT and pay a discount since you have Kansai Thru Pass, basically paying the difference.
All in all I would shoot for #2 of that list up there. Once you have your ticket or Kansai Thru Pass go through the gate (put your ticket in the machine) and make your way down to the platform.
Read the signs along the platforms and find the one that shows the label of the train..."Airport Express". Wait and get on the train. If you are going to take a local train expect more passengers so tuck your luggage close to yourself to be nice.
From Kansai Airport to the Train Station:
Obviously you will take a flight into Kansai International Airport. After clearing immigration and picking up any checked-in luggage you are free to go.Head towards the signs that read "subway" so that you can follow your way to the public transportation options.
Transportation Passes:
Before heading directly to the train stop for a minute at the Tourist Information Center located on the first floor. You want to stop at the "Travel Desk" because you can purchase a very important train pass called the "Kansai Thru Pass"
For just 5,000 Yen for a 3 day pass or 3,800 for a 2 day pass you can use this to ride the Osaka City Subway and buses both in Osaka and Kyoto.
It is a lot easier than having to figure out which ticket to buy at the station. Also when you transfer from one Osaka subway line to another you have to buy a separate ticket. This saves you the hassle.
**Also you get a complimentary Kansai guide with train and bus map that is amazingly useful!
**In this area also look for more maps and tourist information.
And yes! It will allow you to ride from the airport to Namba station, on the Nankai line, which is where you are going.
If you plan on staying longer than 2 days consider getting the JR Subway pass. JR subway is a private line and more expensive but it can easily take you to places like Kyoto and has rapid service trains that are really fast. I would recommend getting a 3 day pass depending on how far you want to travel.
You will get the JR West Kansai Pass and to get it you have to show your passport. Also the ticket booth is in the train entrance area which means you have to make the next move and leave the airport terminal building and go to the train station.
Subway / Train Terminal Building:
Again make your way to this area of the airport complex to either use your Kansai Thru Pass or purchase a ticket on the Nankai line heading for Namba.But the best way I found to plan out what train to take was to use these trip planning websites:
Enter your information: Hint on using this site... type in the station name until you get the choices which come up and select the choice...Namba Nankai is a different station and line from Namba (Subway).
Hit "Search" and view your results. You basically have 3 choices:
2. Nankai "Airport Express"... makes major stops before arriving at Namba but pretty fast.
3. Nankai "Local" makes every stop before arriving at Namba....slow but you can enjoy the scenery.
You can use the Kansai Thru Pass on all of these EXCEPT the "RAPIT". You can take the RAPIT and pay a discount since you have Kansai Thru Pass, basically paying the difference.
All in all I would shoot for #2 of that list up there. Once you have your ticket or Kansai Thru Pass go through the gate (put your ticket in the machine) and make your way down to the platform.
Read the signs along the platforms and find the one that shows the label of the train..."Airport Express". Wait and get on the train. If you are going to take a local train expect more passengers so tuck your luggage close to yourself to be nice.
Namba Station Maze:
This might be the trickiest part. I know many other bloggers and recruiter websites say to just take "Exit 25" and make a right....blah blah...well it was complicated for me considering that Namba station is huge. It includes connections to other lines and an underground shopping mall. But with a little preparation I am sure you can also make it out.
You have two major choices you can make to get out of Namba station and towards the Korean Consulate. First let's look at a map of the station:
The train you get off on is on level 3F you need to make your way out the turnstyle (put in your ticket to exit) and make your way to either 1 of 2 exit choices.
1. Main exit (above ground...main entrance...more walking distance to Consulate)
2. Exit 25 (closest exit to the Consulate)
Signs and exit markers are confusing...but I will try to explain everything to make it clear
Area Map:
To put this into reality let's look at a map of the area:
First I will show you the clean version:
The station you arrive at it is the "Blue Namba" on the map. If you notice there are actually 3 different Namba stations here.
Exit Choices How To:
From here you head upwards toward the area I have shown you on the map. You want to be on the left side of the street. You will pass the Shin Kabuki theater and you know you are on the right side of the street if this is right next to you above your head.
Not hard to miss....funky looking building. So keep going up and cross the little bridge over the stream.
Pass the McDonalds and exit 25.
You will soon see a JAL airline sign advertisement and just past this is the Korean consulate with the huge ass Korean flag out front and security dudes keeping watch. I don't have a picture but you can imagine this pretty easily I think.
2. Choice: Exit 25
This choice means you need to find your way from level 3F to the exit. Let me just say that when you get off the train you are on the opposite end of where the exit is, so you need to travel through the underground maze to Exit 25.
I found this lovely map to illustrate how they organize their exiting system. If you find this map you will see that you are coming out of the D Green area (Nankai subway) and you need to get to the end of the C (Red area).
Look for exit signs like this:
Find your way to exit 25 by following those guidelines. In general if you see the red markings in the above pictures you are making your way there. There are many information stations along the way which you can ask for help. I did and they were very helpful.
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Find yourself in the Korean consulate. There are "island" style tables near the entrance with the forms. Find the one titled "Visa application".
Fill everything out concisely. There is an example on the island table.
Step 2:
Go to the "Visa" window and tell them you are there to get a new visa. She or He will look over your paper and give you a plastic number. You are to wait till your number is called.
Step 3:
Your number is called and you go up to the window. The person looks over your document to make sure you filled it in correctly. You give them your little passport photo. They then instruct you to buy a "stamp / sticker" from the vending machine nearby in the room.
They tell you how to do it and which buttons to press. You have to pay the exact amount and press the button so the stamp comes out of the machine. You then go back to the window and hand in the stamp along with handing over your passport.
They then give you a little piece of paper detailing when to come back to the consulate to pick up your visa and passport.
Step 4:
Check into a hotel. You can figure this out either before you go or look around while you are there. I used www.tourbaksa.com and got a flight/hotel deal for 6 days. If your school is helping you they may set things up for you.
After checking in you can become a tourist and have lots of fun.
Some great Kansai / Osaka tourist websites:
Step 5:
Pick up your visa by showing up at the time requested and handing in that little slip of paper.
Go back to Korea or stay and be a tourist.
What if's:
If you have any questions feel free to ask. Now that I have finished up this post I will get back to writing up about the places I saw. ;)
First I will show you the clean version:
Let's look at my modified version:
The station you arrive at it is the "Blue Namba" on the map. If you notice there are actually 3 different Namba stations here.
Exit Choices How To:
- Central Exit: This exit is probably the easiest to find. Once you get outside you can look around and see you are next to this building: source
Keep going and you should come to a huge ass intersection with a highway overpass above you. Walk under this and notice on the other side of the street (on the right) is the Namba Hips building.
Pass the McDonalds and exit 25.
You will soon see a JAL airline sign advertisement and just past this is the Korean consulate with the huge ass Korean flag out front and security dudes keeping watch. I don't have a picture but you can imagine this pretty easily I think.
2. Choice: Exit 25
This choice means you need to find your way from level 3F to the exit. Let me just say that when you get off the train you are on the opposite end of where the exit is, so you need to travel through the underground maze to Exit 25.
Find your way to exit 25 by following those guidelines. In general if you see the red markings in the above pictures you are making your way there. There are many information stations along the way which you can ask for help. I did and they were very helpful.
Once you are out of exit 25 this is what you do:
Make a sharp right and make sure the "Royal Host" restaurant is on your left side. Go up the street and follow the same instructions as mentioned above.
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At the Korean Consulate: Procedure
The rest is a breeze as long as you have all your documents and your visa number.
- Your passport with remaining validity of at least one year
- Visa issuance document
- A completed Visa application form
- One passport-size photo
- The visa fee of 6,000 Yen (approximately 60,000 KRW)
- Visa issuance document
- A completed Visa application form
- One passport-size photo
- The visa fee of 6,000 Yen (approximately 60,000 KRW)
Other Information You will Need Handy:
- Your address in Korea (full address) If you don't know ask for a close friends address....it's ok.
- Your school's address and name (In English and Korean to be safe)
- Your phone number
- Your school's contact phone number
Find yourself in the Korean consulate. There are "island" style tables near the entrance with the forms. Find the one titled "Visa application".
Fill everything out concisely. There is an example on the island table.
Step 2:
Go to the "Visa" window and tell them you are there to get a new visa. She or He will look over your paper and give you a plastic number. You are to wait till your number is called.
Step 3:
Your number is called and you go up to the window. The person looks over your document to make sure you filled it in correctly. You give them your little passport photo. They then instruct you to buy a "stamp / sticker" from the vending machine nearby in the room.
They tell you how to do it and which buttons to press. You have to pay the exact amount and press the button so the stamp comes out of the machine. You then go back to the window and hand in the stamp along with handing over your passport.
They then give you a little piece of paper detailing when to come back to the consulate to pick up your visa and passport.
Step 4:
Check into a hotel. You can figure this out either before you go or look around while you are there. I used www.tourbaksa.com and got a flight/hotel deal for 6 days. If your school is helping you they may set things up for you.
After checking in you can become a tourist and have lots of fun.
Some great Kansai / Osaka tourist websites:
Step 5:
Pick up your visa by showing up at the time requested and handing in that little slip of paper.
Go back to Korea or stay and be a tourist.
What if's:
- Osaka is a fun area with trendy shops and 20 somethings dressed really stylish.
- Food is great and I highly recommend trying Japanese style donkatsu as it is better than Korean.
- Some people might speak English but again don't expect it.
- Walk on the left. If you don't you will find yourself trying to go through a maze of people.
- If a small souvenir, like a cell phone charm, is over 600 Yen then it is too expensive.
- They have the same mini-stores like "Buy the Way" and "AmPm". You can find ramen here and healthy take out snacks such as mini salads. A real time and money saver if you are tired.
- Bring as much money as you are willing to spend.
- Go see a Temple or other sacred sight.
- I highly recommend skipping Osaka castle and going towards Nara.
- Go through the back alleys...they are safe and full of cute shops and great restaurants.
- Keep clear of "Pachinko" alleys...as they hold the skeevy types.
- Give yourself enough time to get back to the airport as you will have to figure out the subway system again. And there is a lot of shopping at the airport if you have extra time.
If you have any questions feel free to ask. Now that I have finished up this post I will get back to writing up about the places I saw. ;)
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Accents and Qualifications
I don't know if you guys noticed but I tend to shy away from blogging about the controversial topics affecting the expat community. That doesn't mean I don't have an opinion, it's just that I find myself at odds with those around me.
For one I don't really want to talk about stuff I know nothing about, and two it seems most people wright with fear as their reaction. After I read through several blogs that are mashing up the hot topics I start to believe that my job is doomed and that I am a worthless teacher. I don't know why but there seems to be this mania out there that makes my head spin. Yet I can't pull away from it.
And now there is the new controversial topic of the Education Ministry hiring 100 Indian (From India) English teachers.
Right away the Chosun Bimbo asks:
And then things spiral into that they reported the motive to hire Indian teachers is because the NEST's from the other countries have been deemed mostly as "unqualified."
But if they are going to pay any individual less for teaching English out here than of course this comes as an omen to what may come. Chosun Bimbo says:
And who knows then maybe local governments will start to think about it this way: Why are we paying these western country kids more money than the Eastern Asian folks? We should revise the pay scale so that it is equal.
Wait I know!!!! Why don't we just pay everyone what they are worth! (But what are we worth?)
As you can see this little bit of news caused a big splash in the expat pond.
And of course many can't help but feel that Indian teachers would logical be undesirable due to their accent.
This gets my head spinning and I hate to sound idealist but this is just wrong and unfair. I believe that teaching EFL effectively has no correlation with one's accent.
Accent is only a marker of one's origins. So folks if you have some time check out this NPR Talk of the Nation radio show. It is about how English travels and what defines our accents.
Here for you are some short quotes:
I wrote on Chris's comment board that perhaps with this influx of Indians it might help a xenophobic Korea change and give non-white people a chance for better treatment.
**Three posts in one day ~ ><**
For one I don't really want to talk about stuff I know nothing about, and two it seems most people wright with fear as their reaction. After I read through several blogs that are mashing up the hot topics I start to believe that my job is doomed and that I am a worthless teacher. I don't know why but there seems to be this mania out there that makes my head spin. Yet I can't pull away from it.
And now there is the new controversial topic of the Education Ministry hiring 100 Indian (From India) English teachers.
Right away the Chosun Bimbo asks:
Are jobs for NESTs from "The Big 7" being outsourced to India?Which is fine to ask really. Sure this is what it sounds like, perhaps 100 of those jobs would of gone to a NEST from a country other than India.
And then things spiral into that they reported the motive to hire Indian teachers is because the NEST's from the other countries have been deemed mostly as "unqualified."
But if they are going to pay any individual less for teaching English out here than of course this comes as an omen to what may come. Chosun Bimbo says:
Hmmmmm. To be honest that would probably be the best thing for Korea. But the reality is something completely different. The first thing that comes to mind is about wages. Initially I can see English teacher pay taking a nose dive in the face of South Asian teachers willing to teach for considerably less and who are probably more inclined to live together (In smaller apartments) than there American, Canadian, British, Australian, South African and New Zealander counterparts.My reaction to this is that I can't help but see the person in charge thinking to themselves: If I hire the Indian teacher we won't have to pay as much as hiring the Canadian, America, South African...etc...teacher.
And who knows then maybe local governments will start to think about it this way: Why are we paying these western country kids more money than the Eastern Asian folks? We should revise the pay scale so that it is equal.
Wait I know!!!! Why don't we just pay everyone what they are worth! (But what are we worth?)
As you can see this little bit of news caused a big splash in the expat pond.
And of course many can't help but feel that Indian teachers would logical be undesirable due to their accent.
This gets my head spinning and I hate to sound idealist but this is just wrong and unfair. I believe that teaching EFL effectively has no correlation with one's accent.
Accent is only a marker of one's origins. So folks if you have some time check out this NPR Talk of the Nation radio show. It is about how English travels and what defines our accents.
Here for you are some short quotes:
In the end folks is there any way to think about all this in a positive way? When the government meddles with our job sector does it always have to mean doom?CONAN: And to begin with, how do you define your accent?
(Soundbite of laughter)
Mr. CRYSTAL: I wish I could. Well, you know, an accent reflects where you've been, where you've been brought up. And most people these days don't spend their whole lives in one place. So, whereas once upon a time it was quite easy to almost predict where somebody had come from just by listening to them, you listen to somebody like me and what you hear in this voice you're hearing now is the first 10 years of my life living in Wales - living in Wales it would have been that sort of accent then. And then the next 10 years of my life living in Liverpool, well, everybody knows the Beatles. The Beatles accent, you know. And there was that sort of accent mixed in with it. And then I lived for 20 years down in the south of England and there was a kind of, you know, southern accent that came on top of the other two. And they've all mixed together to produce what you're hearing now.
I wrote on Chris's comment board that perhaps with this influx of Indians it might help a xenophobic Korea change and give non-white people a chance for better treatment.
**Three posts in one day ~ ><**
Monday, June 1, 2009
Public Health Guidance (A fun read)
My coteacher today handed me a "Public Health Guidance on Influenza A (H1N1)" Questions and answers print out that she received from the Ministry of Education.
I told her about how we foreigners think it is funny that everyone is being told to keep themselves clean (washing their hands) when we see Koreans usually not doing it. She said ...."uh huh, yea it is true".
Anyways here for you are some highlights from the paper. Note that she received a Korean version and this is the English version she handed me.
I told her about how we foreigners think it is funny that everyone is being told to keep themselves clean (washing their hands) when we see Koreans usually not doing it. She said ...."uh huh, yea it is true".
Anyways here for you are some highlights from the paper. Note that she received a Korean version and this is the English version she handed me.
Q. What is the influenza A (H1N1) virus?
- H1N1 is a novel strain of mutated virus that is currently causing respiratory illness in humans worldwide. HUMANS... that means you too Koreans...unless of course you are robots like I suspected all along.
Q. Does the virus spread between people?
- The World Health Organization and the US CDC report that this virus is capable of human-to-human transmission. ... can be transmitted via droplets from an infected person who is coughing or sneezing. Damn those droplets!
Q. What are the symptoms...?
- ... are not much different from that of a regular seasonal influenza, such as fever, runny nose, soar throat, and cough. Some people have also reported nausea, fatigue, lack of appetite, diarrhea and vomiting. In other words if you feel like shit you may have more than just your regular flu.
Q. How long is the... virus infectious?
- ... is considered to be contagious for up to seven days after onset of symptoms. The infectious period may be longer in children. This may explain why the quarantined folks kept on getting restart dates.
Q. How can I protect myself from ... H1N1 infection?
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Clean your hands thoroughly after throwing the used tissue away.
- Wash your hands often and keep your hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Try to avoid contact with people who appear to have fever or respiratory symptoms. And this could be any "people" right? Not just us foreign folk?
Q. What measures is the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention taking to prevent...H1N1?
- Surveillance for the early detection of ... H1N1 cases has been enhanced, through border control measures using thermal screening and Health Questionaires for incoming passengers, to contain the entry of the disease into Korea.
- 'Guideline for ... H1N1..' has been distributed to public health centers and health care facilities. KCDC also strives to secure adequate supplies of antiviral medications and N95 masks for the management of H1N1 cases.
- We promote essential precautionary measures against influenza to the general public. Koreans travelling abroad are informed about the disease through international text messages. Oh gooody~!
Public Health Guidance on ... H1N1:
1. First wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Good luck Korea!
2. Second, use a tissue to cover... Dispose of the tissue and cleanse your hands thoroughly afterwards. 휴지 please! hope I am saying that right??
3. Third, report to a quarantine station or a public health center nearby if you develop severe respiratory symptoms including runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, fever or feverishness after returning from countries where ... H1N1 case has been identified.
4. Fourth, you cannot be infected with H1N1 from food consumption.
And I think I will add a 5th:
5. Fifth, run in the opposite direction when you see a foreigner. Pull your kid out of that hagwon and report to the neighborhood that there are sick foreigners roaming free. Eat kimchi.
HAHA enjoyed that!! Well most of it makes a lot of sense and since it went out in Korean I hope it helps people understand this crisis instead of just believing hype.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Leadership
Finally expats here in Korea have some new leadership.
Where are we to go when we are struggling at a hagwon?
How can we know for sure our rights are being upheld?
Can we say that we belong to a community? If so who will be our leader?
ATEK is the answer. A new organization that promises to deliver. Besides I think it is time we got ourselves off of Dave's ESL for answers, if you haven't already done so.
You can join them and receive benefits. So far the benefits I find that will be the most useful to me are the statistics. I love statistics!
So for all you lost expat souls out there look towards the light my friends. For there is a way~
Where are we to go when we are struggling at a hagwon?
How can we know for sure our rights are being upheld?
Can we say that we belong to a community? If so who will be our leader?
ATEK is the answer. A new organization that promises to deliver. Besides I think it is time we got ourselves off of Dave's ESL for answers, if you haven't already done so.
You can join them and receive benefits. So far the benefits I find that will be the most useful to me are the statistics. I love statistics!
This kind of stuff will be useful when I consider resigning with my current school or getting a new contract.
Access to English teacher statistics, including average salaries and weekly hours by region and type of teaching job, average level of satisfaction with various job types, average length of stay of foreigners working in Korea, average pay and benefit increases when re-signing for a second year, and much more. Want to know if your contract offer is above or below the average salary for someone in your city and education level? Get access.
So for all you lost expat souls out there look towards the light my friends. For there is a way~
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Immigrant's Stories
Here is a video worth watching. It is a little documentary about immigrants in America and their stories.
I am not an immigrant in Korea but still I am caught wondering what led me to come here. Economics, dreams, fate, love....?
I am not an immigrant in Korea but still I am caught wondering what led me to come here. Economics, dreams, fate, love....?
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Good or Bad Image?
This video describes a popular video on youtube of a woman in Hong Kong airport going crazy over missing her flight.
It caught my attention because I feel it is going to add on more stereotypes of older Asian woman. They don't bother to check what it is she is yelling or a statement from her as to why she grew hysteric, besides missing her flight.
Plus I think missing a flight from one foreign country to the next is something to go crazy for, because taking international flights is a daunting task in itself.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Criminal Background Check
Zen Kimchi posed an inquiry about whether I have to get a fresh criminal background check or not.
So here is the deal (so far).
I am doing a visa transfer, instead of canceling the Visa and going to Japan and getting a fresh new one.
This means you keep the same Alien Registration number but it is sponsored by a different company.
For the criminal record check I was told by my recruiter that for now they don't need a new one, but will take a copy of the one I did first.
When my new one comes in they would like to have it, but it is not critical right now.
What is critical is getting a whole bunch of documents from my current school. This takes some finessing from my supervisor, because I think she is reluctant. So I am hoping the recruiter can speak with her and get her to do it.
Basically though if I take the job, I have a week to get all these docs processed and have my visa transferred. So there isn't much time for my current supervisor to play hokey.
That is it so far in a nutshell.
So here is the deal (so far).
I am doing a visa transfer, instead of canceling the Visa and going to Japan and getting a fresh new one.
This means you keep the same Alien Registration number but it is sponsored by a different company.
For the criminal record check I was told by my recruiter that for now they don't need a new one, but will take a copy of the one I did first.
When my new one comes in they would like to have it, but it is not critical right now.
What is critical is getting a whole bunch of documents from my current school. This takes some finessing from my supervisor, because I think she is reluctant. So I am hoping the recruiter can speak with her and get her to do it.
Basically though if I take the job, I have a week to get all these docs processed and have my visa transferred. So there isn't much time for my current supervisor to play hokey.
That is it so far in a nutshell.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Take a Ride with Me
As you all should know I will be going on an adventure soon to get my tourist visa.
So far my plans are to hop it on over to Busan and then ferry over to Fukuoka and then come right back to Busan. That includes maybe 1 night or two in a love motel in Busan. I am not looking to spend a hell of a lot of time in Japan because it is damn expensive. Also I need to get back to life here in Korea because I have ummm clients waiting for me.
So if you are out there and want to join me please let me know. I can go on a weekend for your convienence. We can share things like food...
*Also it would be great if you were female, seeing how BK would get jealous if you were male and single and straight.
Anyone?
So far my plans are to hop it on over to Busan and then ferry over to Fukuoka and then come right back to Busan. That includes maybe 1 night or two in a love motel in Busan. I am not looking to spend a hell of a lot of time in Japan because it is damn expensive. Also I need to get back to life here in Korea because I have ummm clients waiting for me.
So if you are out there and want to join me please let me know. I can go on a weekend for your convienence. We can share things like food...
*Also it would be great if you were female, seeing how BK would get jealous if you were male and single and straight.
Anyone?
Monday, July 28, 2008
Complaining Expats: A resolution?
Roboseyo and Ask An Korean have done it again with a follow up post this time examining the causes for Koreans defensive attitudes and a way to be criticizing without being so damaging.
It is a doozy to read but well worth it.
I have to say that I can not find any memories of when I complained about Korea to a Korean and got an angry response. Actually I haven't really been complaining about Korea all that much. If I do it would end up in BK's ears. I think sometimes I joke about the amount of stairs from subway stations, or other little nuances. But is never a reflection of how undeveloped Korea is.
A quote from the post that I find illuminating:
The Post goes on to say:
Of course though both of these individuals English levels are high. But I think I am making an important point.
As an Expat you kind of naturally believe that because of the language barrier you tend to think that a Korean speaker does not have the capacity to think as advanced as you.
This is FALSE!
Anyone on this planet whether poor or rich has an opinion. They may not be able to express this in every language or within a thesis paper, but the ability to form an opinion is a function every human is born with.
The Point:
This is nothing new and has shaped many cultures for centuries. The only realization now is how it will shape our world for the future?
Anyways its VACATION TIME!
It is a doozy to read but well worth it.
I have to say that I can not find any memories of when I complained about Korea to a Korean and got an angry response. Actually I haven't really been complaining about Korea all that much. If I do it would end up in BK's ears. I think sometimes I joke about the amount of stairs from subway stations, or other little nuances. But is never a reflection of how undeveloped Korea is.
A quote from the post that I find illuminating:
First, let us eliminate one popular hypothesis from the running. Some observers posit that Korean culture is simply not a “criticizing culture”, because it emphasizes homogeneity and harmony. Because Koreans are reluctant to criticize one another, the theory goes, any amount of criticism is considered a very bold act, and often deeply insulting.This is so true!!!! I experienced a Korean's level of complaining when I met Rainbow (young Korean woman) last year in San Francisco when I worked at the Asian Art Museum. She complained and nit picked about people and places with great accuracy and also a fierce tongue.
The Korean can unequivocally say that this theory is 100 percent crap, because Koreans liberally criticize their country and each other. And truly, the severe and ignorant nature of their criticisms aimed toward their fellow Koreans makes criticisms from expats look like sprinkles of flowers and baby powder
The Post goes on to say:
that a Korean when trying to defend a nasty comment about their country will fail to respond in English in an analytical and objective way:Now, I think this needs careful reconsideration. Because I have had very intelligent conversations with Rainbow (she made this name for herself) and BK. I was very impressed by Rainbow's understanding of her country's position in the world and her understanding of its differences. The same goes for BK, he too understands that Korea, although developed, is still using old regimes of thought to function.
So when the irresistible compulsion to defend Korea against non-Korean-generated criticism of Korea strikes an average Korean, she is often poorly equipped to do so. Her argumentative tools simply are not adequate to properly express her fervor. Therefore, she flails about as she tries to stand her ground, and frequently resorts to poor rhetoric and obstinate denial.
Of course though both of these individuals English levels are high. But I think I am making an important point.
As an Expat you kind of naturally believe that because of the language barrier you tend to think that a Korean speaker does not have the capacity to think as advanced as you.
This is FALSE!
Anyone on this planet whether poor or rich has an opinion. They may not be able to express this in every language or within a thesis paper, but the ability to form an opinion is a function every human is born with.
The Point:
- Leave your assumptions at the door.
This is nothing new and has shaped many cultures for centuries. The only realization now is how it will shape our world for the future?
Anyways its VACATION TIME!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Buzz: Expatriate Adjustments
Let's face it, sometimes the grass isn't always greener on the other side of the world. Especially if that world doesn't even have grass and is all covered in cement and cigarette butts.
The word on the blog streets is that Expat's complain a hell-of a lot. So much that it is indeed annoying. Now the buzz is why the hell do expats complain?
Certainly there must be better things to do with your time like:
The word on the blog streets is that Expat's complain a hell-of a lot. So much that it is indeed annoying. Now the buzz is why the hell do expats complain?
Certainly there must be better things to do with your time like:
- Read up on the culture you are living in.
- Try to get to know a native person around you.
- Think objectively about your situation.
The Gordsellar states the necessity to complain is practically a natural cause and effect relationship.
A look at how a complaint is turned into a firestorm:
Say you come from the pristine suburban land that is America. On your streets are mostly friendly people who say "excuse me" or "hello, how are you today?". The landscape is laid out in a pedestrian friendly manner. People make eye contact and help you if you need it.
Your life is familiar and you know how to function within your environment.
But then you pack yourself up and move to South Korea.
You are out of your native habitat and everything and everyone seems different. After having a few bad days and nights these people and these places begin to look ugly.
Everyone and everything around you becomes a scapegoat for the natural crap that is going on in your life. You need to rant so you find outlets online and speak unthinkable things about the people and culture around you with disregard for the truth.
Although you are just one person your flames of spite ignite a torrent of fury across the Internet, which ripples its away around the globe.
Thus giving the impression that foreigners can't stand it in South Korea.
Conclusion:
It doesn't take much thought to understand that when you throw a big rock into a small pond it makes a big splash.
But this sort of splash can leave a residue behind that affects writers on the Internet that aren't pissed off.
Problematic:
I think as an expatriate blogger myself I am constantly having to check myself and ask:
REALIZATION:
Please know that complaining isn't only reserved to the American in Korea. Koreans, UKer's, South Africa and others complain their asses off while in America.
I know because I heard an ear full of this working at summer camps where these people worked (except the Koreans).
My boyfriend would constantly complain about America and its poor transit system and lack of cleanliness. (visited San Francisco).
All in all just remember this first: when you take a fish out of the water it is going to gasp for air.
I leave you with that.
A look at how a complaint is turned into a firestorm:
Say you come from the pristine suburban land that is America. On your streets are mostly friendly people who say "excuse me" or "hello, how are you today?". The landscape is laid out in a pedestrian friendly manner. People make eye contact and help you if you need it.
Your life is familiar and you know how to function within your environment.
But then you pack yourself up and move to South Korea.
You are out of your native habitat and everything and everyone seems different. After having a few bad days and nights these people and these places begin to look ugly.
Everyone and everything around you becomes a scapegoat for the natural crap that is going on in your life. You need to rant so you find outlets online and speak unthinkable things about the people and culture around you with disregard for the truth.
Although you are just one person your flames of spite ignite a torrent of fury across the Internet, which ripples its away around the globe.
Thus giving the impression that foreigners can't stand it in South Korea.
Conclusion:
It doesn't take much thought to understand that when you throw a big rock into a small pond it makes a big splash.
But this sort of splash can leave a residue behind that affects writers on the Internet that aren't pissed off.
Problematic:
I think as an expatriate blogger myself I am constantly having to check myself and ask:
Am I sounding like I am complaining?When all I want to do is write about my opinions and realities that I experience. I feel that when we try to be politically correct most of the time, it pitfalls into an area where the true raw feelings we experience are washed away.
REALIZATION:
Please know that complaining isn't only reserved to the American in Korea. Koreans, UKer's, South Africa and others complain their asses off while in America.
I know because I heard an ear full of this working at summer camps where these people worked (except the Koreans).
My boyfriend would constantly complain about America and its poor transit system and lack of cleanliness. (visited San Francisco).
All in all just remember this first: when you take a fish out of the water it is going to gasp for air.
I leave you with that.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Requested Items
The supplies I brought with me of hair gel, curling hair conditioner and face wash, brands that I treasure are getting depleted everyday. So being the pack rat that I am I have requested my Family to send me a replenishing package with the following items inside: 
Also on this list are:
Also on this list are:- Turmeric (a spice)
- Herbamare (an hippy spice)
- A jar of Pure Golden Maple Syrup (if possible)
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Morning of a new day
I seemed to sleep well last night, except that I woke up around 4am and watched TV. I think my body was still confused on when it should be asleep.
Anyways, the plane ride was okay. But I do have a little story to tell about it. I got there on time and everything, said goodbye to Bo Kwan :(. Yet, when I went through the security check point everything was chaotic. They had you go into lines and then place your stuff in bins. There were no signs telling you what to place in each bin, but I followed the crowd and separated my shoes, bag and purse into different bins. When I went through the security gate that checks for metal everything was okay and I collected my items and went on. But apparently not everything was ok. Right as I was going to enter the gate to board the plane a worker for Korean Air looked at my ticket and pulled me aside. It turned out that they did not check me off at the security gate and so they had to send someone to do a check on me before I went on the plane.
The following minutes seemed like hours, as I watched everyone board the plane and I was the last person in the lobby. As I saw them close the gate doors I felt a panic attack coming on. But finally someone showed up, got the job done and I boarded the plane. Once on the plane I had enough time to shove my carry on in the over-head compartment and buckle up for the ride. My seat was in the middle and I wondered to myself...how I am going to fall asleep?
But the flight wasn't all bad...it was just a plane ride excessively long. The great thing that made it work out was a video panel right in front of you that had free movies. I watched The Kite Runner, and 2 Korean movies. Along with movies there was a screen that showed you a map of the world with the plane's path on it. I checked this often and was excited when the plane was clearly far-far away from America.
I managed to get a few doses of sleep on the plane. In between I thought about things and missed Bo Kwan. They served us two meals, the first was the Korean dish Bi Bim Bop and the second was a noodle thing which had as a side dish some cake.
Sorry I can't put up pictures, I am using the hotels computer in my room and will have to figure out if I can plug my camera into it. :)
The only bad thing right now is that my tummy is adjusting to all this change by being grumpy with me. So I am going to try my best and eat simple and lightly.
I am excited to be here and now a bit nervous to walk out on the streets to get a bite to eat before my day. But that is why I am here...to explore.
Anyways, the plane ride was okay. But I do have a little story to tell about it. I got there on time and everything, said goodbye to Bo Kwan :(. Yet, when I went through the security check point everything was chaotic. They had you go into lines and then place your stuff in bins. There were no signs telling you what to place in each bin, but I followed the crowd and separated my shoes, bag and purse into different bins. When I went through the security gate that checks for metal everything was okay and I collected my items and went on. But apparently not everything was ok. Right as I was going to enter the gate to board the plane a worker for Korean Air looked at my ticket and pulled me aside. It turned out that they did not check me off at the security gate and so they had to send someone to do a check on me before I went on the plane.
The following minutes seemed like hours, as I watched everyone board the plane and I was the last person in the lobby. As I saw them close the gate doors I felt a panic attack coming on. But finally someone showed up, got the job done and I boarded the plane. Once on the plane I had enough time to shove my carry on in the over-head compartment and buckle up for the ride. My seat was in the middle and I wondered to myself...how I am going to fall asleep?
But the flight wasn't all bad...it was just a plane ride excessively long. The great thing that made it work out was a video panel right in front of you that had free movies. I watched The Kite Runner, and 2 Korean movies. Along with movies there was a screen that showed you a map of the world with the plane's path on it. I checked this often and was excited when the plane was clearly far-far away from America.
I managed to get a few doses of sleep on the plane. In between I thought about things and missed Bo Kwan. They served us two meals, the first was the Korean dish Bi Bim Bop and the second was a noodle thing which had as a side dish some cake.
Sorry I can't put up pictures, I am using the hotels computer in my room and will have to figure out if I can plug my camera into it. :)
The only bad thing right now is that my tummy is adjusting to all this change by being grumpy with me. So I am going to try my best and eat simple and lightly.
I am excited to be here and now a bit nervous to walk out on the streets to get a bite to eat before my day. But that is why I am here...to explore.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Flying Joy
To make sure I don't spend too much time through the security check point I am making sure that my carry-on bag doesn't contain any "no-no" items. The website TSA Travel Assistant tells me the following:
I think if most of my stuff isn't airline safe than I can just purchase some in flight necessities in the Duty Free area. For example I would like to have some toothpaste with me to keep myself fresh.
In addition to just the normal line of stuff someone carries with them on a plane I am also packing all my prescription meds (for my Crohn's) in my carry on. TSA has just a part of their site dedicated to this.
I will see if they all fit in a zippy.
Looks like they do but it is really ugly!
Okay, so I think that takes care of that. Now I am taking all my meds as carry on because I am too paranoid to let them fly under the plane. Now, I wonder if I can have one ziplock bag for my meds and one ziplock bag for liquids? I think the safe thing would to just have one ziplock bag and few liquids, and just rely on the Duty Free area for the rest.
Wait a minute I just read further that:
If I do get slowed down I hope that gives me enough time to find my gate and also do a little shopping for necessities before I go. :) Also I think I may need to find a seat to collect myself, as I know my emotions will be running high.
- All liquids, gels and aerosols must be in three-ounce or smaller containers. Larger containers that are half-full or toothpaste tubes rolled up are not allowed. Each container must be three ounces or smaller.
- All liquids, gels and aerosols must be placed in a single, quart-size, zip-top, clear plastic bag. Gallon size bags or bags that are not zip-top such as fold-over sandwich bags are not allowed. Each traveler can use only one, quart-size, zip-top, clear plastic bag.
- Each traveler must remove their quart-sized plastic, zip-top bag from their carry-on and place it in a bin or on the conveyor belt for X-ray screening. X-raying separately will allow TSA security officers to more easily examine the declared items.
I think if most of my stuff isn't airline safe than I can just purchase some in flight necessities in the Duty Free area. For example I would like to have some toothpaste with me to keep myself fresh.
In addition to just the normal line of stuff someone carries with them on a plane I am also packing all my prescription meds (for my Crohn's) in my carry on. TSA has just a part of their site dedicated to this.
- You may bring all prescription and over-the-counter medications (liquids, gels, and aerosols) including KY jelly, eye drops, and saline solution for medical purposes.
- You are not limited in the amount or volume of these items you may bring in your carry-on baggage. BUT if the medically necessary items exceed 3 ounces or are not contained in a one-quart, zip-top plastic bag, you MUST declare to one of our Security Officers at the checkpoint for further inspection.
I will see if they all fit in a zippy.
Looks like they do but it is really ugly!
Okay, so I think that takes care of that. Now I am taking all my meds as carry on because I am too paranoid to let them fly under the plane. Now, I wonder if I can have one ziplock bag for my meds and one ziplock bag for liquids? I think the safe thing would to just have one ziplock bag and few liquids, and just rely on the Duty Free area for the rest.
Wait a minute I just read further that:
Non-liquid or gel medications of all kinds such as solid pills, or inhalers are allowed through the security checkpoint once they have been screened. We recommend, but do not require, that your medications be labeled to assist with the screening process.Further more there is a section called Hidden Disabilities which highlights my condition. To sum up what is important to me here are the highlights:
- Medications must be labeled so they are identifiable. Check!
- Medications in daily dosage containers are allowed through the checkpoint once they been screened. Check!
If I do get slowed down I hope that gives me enough time to find my gate and also do a little shopping for necessities before I go. :) Also I think I may need to find a seat to collect myself, as I know my emotions will be running high.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Immigration (Everyone should watch this)
Immigration is an issue in America that is a topic so heated it displaces communities and people. But immigration to this country is becoming more and more an issue that is causing hatred in some people. Whether the immigrant is Mexican, Colombian, Chinese or Korean, it seems some Americans (White Americans) are having a difficult time accepting these people.
As I will become an immigrant in Korea, I hope that my stay there will be greeted with a welcoming gesture, unlike the kind you see here in this video:
As I will become an immigrant in Korea, I hope that my stay there will be greeted with a welcoming gesture, unlike the kind you see here in this video:
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