*** update ***
The OP is now back at home with family in South Africa. Relief be getting out of Korea would be an gross understatement, but I can honestly say that this adds another person to the countless thousands who have been treated poorly, had to literally flee from their employer and suffer countless hours of stress from a system that is biased against them. Thousands of people leave Korea like this every year, and believe me, no matter how any CNN commercials they advertise about 'friendly Korea', it's all pure BS.
I had the chance to spend last summer back home, and quite a few people knew about 'teaching' in Korea. Not a single one had a positive impression about this country. Most had friends or kids who had gone, suffered and returned. While I'm extremely happy the OP was able to get out safely, there are many who cannot. Even more sad is there will be another eager beaver ready to take the new opening, get shafted and end up leaving in a similar manner. The OP's school was blacklisted in 2006 for the same tactics. 8 years on, they haven't changed and probably never will. The system has failed everyone.
I wish the very best to the OP on his new adventures in life, and yes, there are people who will help one another when they really need it. It's just good Karma. But at least he's back home and I'm sure with a true appreciation for his home country. One quote I'll put from him.
'I though people in South Africa suffered from corruption. But this place is just unbelievable! Koreans make South Africans look honest! I can't believe how corrupt this place is!'
Nuff said.
MC
