Scott, Thank you for your reply. I understand where you are coming from re 'dodgy' and 'bubble' - however, within the context mentioned by the original poster, I am wondering if there is an increasing negative impression of foreign teachers and if so, why? If there is, could it be that- 1. Students and teachers are questioning the qualifications/ability of the general ESL teaching community. 2. Negative attitudes are driven by an increased racial bias and (perhaps) the idea of linguistic imperialism (maybe as a result of media attention to certain matters both from the present and from history). 3. Does Korea really get what it asks for in terms of quality teachers and teaching programs ( but I realize this is a whole other matter and probably opening a can of worms). Also - has the ESL community here ever had - or tried to have - any sort of official representation. I take it from your response that this has not been the case. Thanks, G.Kim