Note: This article has been updated to reflect feedback regarding the use of the term “volunteer,” given that participants will receive compensation for their time and effort. Originally, this gig was introduced as a volunteer opportunity, but we have revised the wording to better align with the nature of the role and avoid misunderstandings.
TEFLnews.org, in collaboration with The Rights Recovery Union (권리찾기 유니온 www.unioncraft.kr), has established an affordable legal assistance program that TEFL teachers in Korea can access! For years, many foreign educators have faced issues such as unfair dismissals, wage delays, and contract disputes without proper support due to high legal costs and language barriers. Now, thanks to a collaboration with certified labor attorneys (공인노무사) affiliated with The Rights Recovery Union (권리찾기 유니온), TEFL teachers have a reliable option to defend their rights at a reasonable cost.
However, for the program to run smoothly and effectively, language support providers are essential. Many TEFL teachers struggle to communicate with their legal representatives and understand the nuances of the Korean labor system. To ensure teachers can take full advantage of this new legal support, TEFLnews.org is looking to recruit bilingual assistants who can bridge the language gap during consultations and translate critical documents.
Why Is This Initiative Needed?
Although affordable legal services are now available, the process of navigating labor disputes in Korea remains complex. Without reliable language support, teachers may miss key details, misunderstand their legal options, or fail to communicate their circumstances accurately to the labor attorney. Bilingual assistants are needed to ensure clear and effective communication between the teacher and the certified labor attorney, making the legal assistance truly accessible.
We plan to release a separate article with detailed information regarding the legal assistance in the future.
Affordable Legal Assistance for Teachers
The legal services provided through this initiative are offered at a significantly lower cost compared to standard private legal consultations:
- Retainer Fee: The initial retainer fee for representation is 500,000 KRW. For teachers working in Gyeonggi Province, a special support program can be available to fully cover this fee.
- Success Fee: If a settlement or compensation is secured, a success fee of around 10% to 15% of the recovered amount will be applied. This is notably lower than what is typically charged by private legal consultants or law firms.
But the key to making this support effective is accurate translation and real-time interpretation. That’s where the role of bilingual assistants becomes crucial.
What Does the Role Involve?
As a bilingual assistant, you will ensure that TEFL teachers can communicate effectively with certified labor attorneys, enabling them to make informed decisions and achieve fair outcomes. Your role may include:
- Real-Time Interpretation During Consultations:
You will provide live interpretation during meetings—whether in person, by phone, or online—between the teacher and the labor attorney, ensuring that both parties fully understand each other’s statements and questions. - Document Translation:
You will translate key documents, such as employment contracts, legal notices, and formal communications, from Korean to English (or vice-versa) to facilitate informed decision-making by the teacher. - Ongoing Communication Support:
As cases can span weeks or months, ongoing communication support may be needed to translate updates, draft responses, or help clarify any legal advice provided to the teacher.
Why Get Involved?
- Make a Tangible Impact:
Your skills will directly support teachers who are navigating complex legal situations, ensuring that their rights are respected and that they receive just outcomes. - Receive a Token of Appreciation for Your Time:
Although this initiative is not a formal employment opportunity, a small fee of 200,000 KRW per case will be paid by the teacher benefiting from your service. This amount was set based on the idea that each case would take around 4-5 hours to complete. It’s calculated using a minimum rate of 40,000-50,000 KRW per hour for interpretation services. While some cases may take longer, the flat rate is meant to acknowledge your effort without putting too much financial pressure on the teacher needing help, which would go against the program’s purpose. - Enhance Your Professional Skills and Network:
Participating in this capacity provides practical experience in labor rights, legal contexts, and advocacy. You’ll also build a strong network by working closely with experienced labor consultants, legal professionals, and rights advocates.
Who Should Apply?
We are looking for:
- Bilingual Individuals: Proficiency in both English and Korean is essential. Experience in legal translation or interpretation is a plus, but not mandatory.
- Empathetic and Patient Communicators: Sensitivity is key, as many cases involve emotionally charged and complex issues.
- Detail-Oriented Individuals: Ensuring accuracy and clarity in both translation and interpretation is crucial to avoid misunderstandings.
How to Apply
If you are interested in joining this initiative, please send an email to [chanhyung@esl365.com] with a brief introduction, outlining your language proficiency, relevant experience, and availability. Please include “Bilingual Assistant Application” in the subject line.
Help TEFL Teachers Receive Fair Treatment
Your language skills can empower TEFL teachers in Korea to seek justice and fair treatment in the face of unfair labor practices. By participating with TEFLnews.org and The Rights Recovery Union, you’ll be helping educators navigate the complexities of the Korean labor system and advocate for their rights.
For more information or to get involved, please contact us at [chanhyung@esl365.com]. Let’s work together to build a fairer, more supportive community for TEFL teachers in Korea.
