Q: Why are so many public phones always off the hook? Are they broken?
A: Not at all! Often there is a remaining credit on the phone and so people as a courtesy leave them off the hook for the next person to use. Just push the green button for a new dial tone. The red button is for emergency calls. Most calls are in reverse order from the States. Police, for example, is # 119 (instead of # 911). The same is true for information: 114 (instead of 411).
Q: What about banking? What if I need to send money home? Should I look for an American bank? Are there any here?
A: there are several American banks in Korea such as Bank Of America, and Citibank, but just about any bank can help you. If you need to send money home there are several ways to do it. You can purchase a cashier's check at most banks which you can send via airmail to the States. You can also wire money directly to a checking account in America. This is a little more expensive (costing about 10.000 won to exchange won to dollars and to wire them) but the money will arrive in two days. There is often a charge from the bank in the States to receive a wire transfer. You will need the bank name, address, account number and also the routing number (the series of numbers which precede the account number on the bottom of the check) to do this. You will also need your passport and (When you have one,) your residency card.
Q: Is it difficult to open a bank account here?
A: No. Because you are a legal teacher you will have no problems to do anything like this, and Korean banks, just like American banks are happy to help you deposit your money. There is usually someone who will be able to help you open an account and conduct transactions. It is best that you wait to get to your assigned school before seeking out a bank as you will want one that is near your house. Almost all banks will provide you with an ATM card as well. We help you to set up a bank account if you ask us.
Q: How do I cash my paycheck?
A: You will be paid in cash, so there is no need to worry about this.
Q: What about credit cards?
A: Visa, MC and, in some places Amex, are all excepted.
Q: What if I want to extend my contract for another year?
A: Great! We will be happy to talk to you about this after you have been here a while. We want to keep our experienced teachers and offer an increased salary and some additional benefits for 2nd year teachers.
Q: What's the best way to make my time in Korea good?
A: Your time here is what you make of it. If you keep to yourself and avoid other people, your experience won't be as rich as it will be if you explore the country and it1s people. If you're positive and open-minded you can have an absolutely great time in Korea.
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