dodging a bullet

Well, I just did some AI research on the hagweon I might have ended up at. Here's what the AI god said (with the hagweon's name redacted):

Based on numerous online reports, Xxxxxxxxx Xxxxxxxxx in Korea is widely regarded as a bad or high-risk hagwon for foreign instructors. It is frequently listed on blacklists, with reports of a toxic work environment, excessive admin work, high turnover, poor management support, and a punitive training period where you may have to pay to leave if you "fail". [1, 2, 3]

Key Findings on Xxxxxxxxx Xxxxxxxxx:

• Reputation & Reviews: Negative reviews are common, specifically criticizing the Daechi and Seocho branches for poor management and a "cut-throat" atmosphere. [1, 2]
• Work Environment: The environment is often described as high-pressure, with reported micromanagement, high turnover rates, and minimal breaks, sometimes leading to 12-hour workdays. [1, 2]
• Working Conditions: Teachers frequently cite high workloads involving heavy administrative duties (report cards, photo uploads) in addition to teaching. Some reports indicate that management prioritizes profit over employee well-being. [1, 2]
• Contract & Training: The contract often includes a "training" period. Several reports indicate that if you do not pass this initial training, you may be sent back home at your own expense. [1, 2]
• Branch Variations: While all are considered to have high turnover, some reviews suggest the atmosphere can vary slightly by location (e.g., some reports of the Bundang branch being slightly better than Seocho). [1, 2, 3]

Note: While some branches may differ, the overall consensus in online teacher forums is to approach this institution with extreme caution or avoid it entirely. Always ask to speak with a current, non-management teacher before signing a contract.

Whoa. This sounds like an avoid at all costs kind of place. So I guess I'm back to applying to universities and looking for private-tutoring gigs. And I suppose I will be sending my fingerprints to the US FBI and sending my other documents to be apostilled. 

I have a few other documents I need to gather. I've asked two former associates to write me letters of recommendation, and I need to obtain certificates of employment from all of the universities where I've worked (Sookmyung, Daegu Catholic, Dongguk).