*Please note that Alex is not the teacher's real name. Their name has been changed to protect their privacy.
In a remarkable display of determination and solidarity, Alex*, an English teacher in Busan, South Korea, successfully challenged an unfair dismissal with the unwavering support of their union. Alex’s story serves as an inspiration to TEFL teachers and workers worldwide, highlighting the power of collective action in the face of adversity.
The incident began on an unassuming day in early May when Alex received a suspicious text message from their employer. “On first my boss texted me requesting a meeting outside of work hours, specifically at my home after 10 PM,” Alex recounted. “I declined and suggested we communicate via text or during regular working hours instead.” Shortly after, Alex’s employer revealed they were facing financial difficulties and needed to downsize, leading to Alex’s abrupt dismissal via text message.
Initially, Alex was skeptical about the situation. “Initially, I was skeptical about the situation since he had just returned from abroad,” Alex explained. “Despite my doubts, I tried to be reasonable and gave him the benefit of the doubt. I requested a letter of release and a reference letter, both of which he provided.” However, Alex couldn’t shake the feeling that something wasn’t right. “Nonetheless, I felt stressed and began searching for new job opportunities. However, something in the back of my mind kept telling me that this wasn’t true, as I knew the system and couldn’t understand how they could function without at least two teachers.”
As a member of the Busan Chapter of the Korean General League of Unions, Alex had witnessed numerous successful cases and negotiations. This experience made them more open to confronting their employer. “Being a union member for a while, I’ve witnessed us win a lot of case work and negotiations,” Alex said. “These successes have made me more open to the idea of confronting my boss and standing up for my rights as a worker. Seeing the union effectively advocate for us has boosted my confidence, and now I feel more empowered to assert myself, knowing I have the support of my fellow union members.”
The situation escalated when Alex discovered that their employer had posted a job advertisement for a new instructor. “I found out through a coworker that he is replacing me, and this angered me to no end,” Alex shared. “I’ve been working hard for this place just to be replaced with someone else for no reason. I then decided to take action.”
With the support and guidance of the union, an official letter was sent to the academy director, threatening a protest if the unfair dismissal was not withdrawn. The director, realizing the potential impact on their reputation, quickly reached out to the union to negotiate.
During the negotiation process, Alex confronted their employer about the lies and unfair treatment. “In the first hour of negotiation, I confronted my boss about his lies and unfair treatment, revealing his denial of hiring a new teacher,” Alex recounted. “I proposed an agreement where he wouldn’t employ new staff until my contract ended, with me having priority for any openings. I also insisted that if he breached the agreement, he would pay out my contract, including severance.”
After tense negotiations, a compromise was reached, and the unfair dismissal was withdrawn. Alex expressed relief and pride in standing up for their rights. “Relieved and also extremely proud of myself for standing up and fighting for my own rights as an individual,” they shared.
Alex’s experience highlighted the vital role of unions in supporting workers through challenging situations. “The union has been a lifeline for me, offering support in ways I never imagined,” Alex emphasized. “We’ve built a community where care and love are at the forefront, empowering and enabling each other every day. It’s more than just fighting for workers rights; it’s about the deep connections I’ve formed with the people I fight alongside.”
When asked about the message they would like to share with other teachers and workers facing similar situations, Alex stated, “The power to change your life lies solely in your hands. This means that each person has the ability to influence their own future through their actions and decisions. When workers come together and form a union, they combine their individual strengths into a collective force. This collective action is powerful because it amplifies their voices and demands for better working conditions, fair wages, and respect in the workplace.”
Alex’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of solidarity and collective action. By standing together and supporting one another, TEFL teachers and workers can overcome challenges, advocate for their rights, and create positive change in their lives and communities.
