Han’s Berkeley English Institute: Osan-dong, Gyeonggi-do

I worked here for 1 year. Overall, the experience was fine and I have no major negative comments to advise.
The director, Mr Han, pays on time and supposedly pays standard 50% insurance and 50% pension, but I never verified this. The salary is not great, but not terrible – I was on 2.1. The hours are 2pm-8pm; 6 X 50 minute classes per day, Monday-Friday. My apartment was very small, like a shoe-box, but I survived.
When I was there, there was a very vindictive Canadian girl – initials H.R. – who was quite nasty to most of her co-workers (including Mr Han). I was glad to get away from her, though I think she too has left for another job.

I will use an alias instead of my real name due to strict local libel and slander laws.

I have worked for Mr. Han for some time now, and I must disagree with Claire’s assessment of our apartment. I have been a number of Korean apartments and our apartment is larger than average for studio villas. The apartment is somewhat dated, but the utilities are inexpensive and it is located in a nice neighborhood with other foreigners living nearby. It IS SMALLER than your average European/ North American flat, however any potential applicant should keep in mind that it is fully furnished and paid for by our director.

You are always paid on time without exception. Our director does provide comprehensive insurance, but it is rather expensive compared to the Korean NHS. Classes average size is about seven students per class and the work hours are from 2 to 9 PM. You teach six classes a day with one hour of prep time before your first class.

Overall, I would highly recommend this hagwon for someone who is either a recent graduate or lacking teaching experience. It does pay more than public schools in the region for entry-level positions.
The pay is slightly lower than you would get in Seoul (About $100 a month). Please consider however that the cost of living in Osan is lower and only a forty five minute bus ride to Seoul.