How to Begin Teaching in South Korea

Historic, modern, hectic, peaceful.

Work in one of the most exciting Countries in Asia

South Korea is a living, breathing oxymoron. Seoul is a bustling metropolis with over 10 million inhabitants, yet here you can find historical sites and contemporary attractions living side by side: palaces and museums are close to massive shopping malls and busy restaurants. Busan and Daegu are two other big cities where you can wander around museums or shop to your heart’s content.
But not far from the bigger cities, you’re sure to find a peaceful place to rest and relax. Mountains and national parks are plentiful, or you can visit one of the many islands to have a look around. Jeju Island is a popular local holiday destination and UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its waterfalls, volcanoes and caves.
Of course, South Korea has a complex history and relationship with North Korea, which remains one of the most mysterious and secretive countries in the world. If you’re feeling brave, you can even visit the Demilitarized Zone, which US President Bill Clinton called ‘the scariest place on Earth’.
If you’re looking for adventure, South Korea is a country to consider. If you want to experience the true Gangnam Style or try authentic Korean barbeque and kimchi, look no further than this island nation.

Teaching Opportunities

Teaching opportunities in South Korea are many: at last count there were 43 000 English teachers working here, and still so many jobs to fill! The market here is growing steadily and many foreigners are finding South Korea a good place to gain teaching experience and still be able to save some cash. You can either work for the Korean Ministry of Education in a public school or you could work in a private school, also known as a Hagwon. Your days may be long but they will be worth it.
Most schools will reimburse your flight on completion of your contract, as well as offer accommodation, paid holidays and an annual bonus. All the holidays allow you plenty of time to jump across to Japan or take a quick trip to other top Asian destinations, or you could travel locally and save your hard-earned cash for a rainy day.

Teaching Requirements

Degree Requirement	Typical Contract Length	Peak Hiring Seasons	Visa Info	Typical Students	Average Monthly Cost of Living in £ GBP & Local Currency	Average Monthly Salary in £ GBP & Local Currency

BA/BS required

12 months

February, August

E2 visa

Children, students

₩ 800 000 – ₩1.3 million (£500 – £800)

₩ 1.9 – ₩2.1 million (£1200 –£1300)

Degree Requirement

BA/BS required

Typical Contract Length

12 months

Peak Hiring Seasons

February, August

Visa Info

E2 visa

Typical Students

Children, students

Average Monthly Cost of Living in £ GBP & Local Currency

₩ 800 000 – ₩1.3 million (£500 – £800)

Average Monthly Salary in £ GBP & Local Currency

₩ 1.9 – ₩2.1 million (£1200 –£1300)

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