From my understanding, much of the landscape of Korean hogwans (private schools) is absurdly corrupt and poorly run by people who care little of the employees or children, but instead see those children and employees as vessels for their own financial gains.
Janghak Language Institute is no different. I sent an e-mail a while back about our asshole boss Michael. Through absurd complaining from the entire foreign staff (that's me and my white coworkers), he basically had his balls taken from him and now is just the Fonz of the office. He has no real power. He just pops his collar and gives the thumbs up. Instead, the power has been usurped by Mr. Ha, the owner of the school. While slightly less versed in being an asshole as Michael had been, he makes up for his misgivings by being twice as incompetent in management and disrespectful to the Korean staff. Since this school opened in October, every single initial Korean teacher has quit. Every one. Moreover, one who came in December with me and the one with whom I am the closest, Lucy, just put her two week notice in today. She was given a schedule which would basically mandate that she had no social life outside of school. If she didn't like it...she had no other options.
As an American here, I have more options. I was given a schedule which was actually slightly worse. I talked to my boss...she pushed me to her boss...who did nothing. So I went over his head to the next guy...who then called back down to the 2nd boss...who was embarassed that I went over his head...and my schedule was quickly changed. The Korean system is structured that ALL people will verbally placate you and not do anything until someone over them is going to hold them personally accountable. However, it does not work for Lucy.
They asked us to work Saturday's, we said 'no.' That was the end of it...we're too valuable to lose. They tell her to work Saturdays...if she doesn't..."goodbye." Mr. Ha has had meeting after meeting with us foreigners as well as the Koreans where ample things are promised. Yet, in the face of more dollar signs with pigtails, those promises tend to be forgotten in the name of another $4200 suit...COME ON!
For other people here in Korea who read this...I recognize that this is the system, and that our school is better in some ways and is worse in some ways. I'm more annoyed with the rudeness and desire to tell downright lies to both Americans and Korean workers. I'm more annoyed that this tendency which started only in the high offices of this building has seemed to seep down through the rest of it.
Attitude Reflects Leadership
Friday, May 30, 2008
Saturday, May 17, 2008
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