Foreign instructors wanted

The Seoul Metropolitan Government is recruiting foreign instructors for a program that tells children about different cultures.

Since it started in 2008, the Neighbors From Afar program has given classes to around 16,000 children, to help their understanding of foreign cultures.

It has had a positive response from teachers and students, so the Seoul Metropolitan Government plans to expand the education to preschoolers as well as elementary, middle and high school students.

The number of classes and participating nations will also be increased this year.

Foreign instructors generally introduce their country, culture and language and prepare some activities, such as trying on their traditional dress or making simple traditional crafts.

“Students were especially interested in classes with active participation such as a Canadian who taught how to draw his national flag, a Nepalese who prepared snacks made in his country, and an Indian who brought his country’s paper money,” a spokesperson for the Seoul Global Center said.

Foreign nationals or naturalized Korean citizens who can speak English or Korean can apply for this position. They must be available for two or three classes from March to July. Priority will be given to those who can speak Korean fluently.

Applicants should submit their application form, cover letter, syllabus and supporting documentation by post, by email or in person by Jan. 31. Successful candidates will be announced on Feb. 3 and invited to an interview around Feb. 6.

To apply, email to globalmind@seoul.go.kr or call (02) 2171-2853. For more information, go to http://global.seoul.go.kr.

By Yi Ji-won (rabbite2@nate.com)