Last Tuesday, I experienced something that really hurt me as a foreign student living in Korea. It was not just about losing a job opportunity — it was about losing trust.
Last month, I faced an interview at a seafood restaurant in Jangsan. The boss's wife told me the working hours would be from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. She asked if I’d be okay working those hours since my home was a bit far. I clearly said I would manage. Then she mentioned the restaurant was still under construction and would start operations on June 15. Again, I agreed.
Later, she sent me the salary details. I confirmed everything was okay and even asked her again if it was certain that I’d be working with them. She said yes. I trusted her words and waited.
Then, last Tuesday, out of nowhere, she messaged me and said they wouldn’t hire me because they were worried about how I’d get home after work. I was totally shocked. I replied that it was my responsibility and I would manage. But then she started giving me many illogical excuses. Finally, she just said, “Sorry.”
I told her: What if I did the same thing to you on June 14 — just one day before starting — and then said sorry? Would that be okay? Again, she just said “Sorry.”
This was a completely unprofessional experience. As a foreign student in Korea, it really hurt me. I skipped other job opportunities because I trusted their commitment. I waited patiently for weeks, believing their words. But in the end, I was left with nothing but disappointment.
It’s a painful reminder that not everyone values commitment the way we do. But I’ll take this as a life lesson. No matter where we are, being professional, honest, and respectful matters — especially when dealing with people who are far from home and trying to build a life with dignity.
— Borhan, an international student in Korea
Last Tuesday, I experienced something that really hurt me as a foreign student living in Korea. It was not just about losing a job opportunity — it was about losing trust.
Last month, I faced an interview at a seafood restaurant in Jangsan. The boss's wife told me the working hours would be from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. She asked if I’d be okay working those hours since my home was a bit far. I clearly said I would manage. Then she mentioned the restaurant was still under construction and would start operations on June 15. Again, I agreed.
Later, she sent me the salary details. I confirmed everything was okay and even asked her again if it was certain that I’d be working with them. She said yes. I trusted her words and waited.
Then, last Tuesday, out of nowhere, she messaged me and said they wouldn’t hire me because they were worried about how I’d get home after work. I was totally shocked. I replied that it was my responsibility and I would manage. But then she started giving me many illogical excuses. Finally, she just said, “Sorry.”
I told her: What if I did the same thing to you on June 14 — just one day before starting — and then said sorry? Would that be okay? Again, she just said “Sorry.”
This was a completely unprofessional experience. As a foreign student in Korea, it really hurt me. I skipped other job opportunities because I trusted their commitment. I waited patiently for weeks, believing their words. But in the end, I was left with nothing but disappointment.
It’s a painful reminder that not everyone values commitment the way we do. But I’ll take this as a life lesson. No matter where we are, being professional, honest, and respectful matters — especially when dealing with people who are far from home and trying to build a life with dignity.
— Borhan, an international student in Korea