A Complete Guide to Teaching in South Korea
Are you dreaming of teaching English in South Korea? The country offers one of the most vibrant, rewarding, and unique teaching opportunities in the world. Not only is South Korea known for its rich culture, delicious food, and breathtaking landscapes, but it also boasts a growing demand for English teachers in both public schools and private language institutes (hagwons). If you’ve ever asked, “How can I become an English teacher in South Korea?” or wondered what steps are required to secure a position, you’ve come to the right place.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an English teacher in Korea—from the qualifications you need, to how to apply for a job, and tips for adjusting to life in Korea. Whether you’re considering teaching English in Korea long-term or just for a year or two, read on to discover the exciting journey that awaits.
7 Key Steps to Become an English Teacher in South Korea
Teaching English in Korea can be a life-changing experience, and while it’s an exciting opportunity, it also requires careful planning and understanding of the process. Here, we break down 7 essential steps that will guide you on how to become an English teacher in South Korea.
1. Understand the Basic Requirements for Teaching English in Korea
Before you begin your search for jobs, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the basic requirements needed to be an English teacher in Korea. First and foremost, you need to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, ideally in any field, though education or English-related majors can be an added advantage.
Additionally, you’ll need to be a native English speaker from a country such as the U.S., Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand. While it’s not strictly required, some schools may prefer applicants who hold a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification. This is especially true if you want to teach English in Korea outside of the public school system.
2. Obtain a Criminal Background Check & Health Check
One of the critical steps in the hiring process is ensuring that teachers meet Korea’s legal requirements to work with minors. This means that in order to get an English teaching job in South Korea, you must provide a criminal background check from your home country. The check needs to be recent, generally within the last six months.
In addition to a criminal background check, most schools will also require a health check. This includes testing for communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, ensuring you’re fit to teach in Korea. While the background and health checks might seem like an extra step, they are essential to protect both you and your students.
Here’s how to get certified to teach English abroad
3. Choose Between Public Schools & Private Language Institutes (Hagwons)
Once you understand the basic requirements, the next decision is where you want to teach English in Korea. The two main options are public schools and private language institutes, known as hagwons.
- Public Schools: Working in a public school is a stable and reliable option. Programs like EPIK (English Program in Korea) are government-sponsored and offer competitive salaries, benefits like housing, and visa sponsorship. Public school positions typically follow the school year, and you’ll work regular hours with weekends off.
- Private Language Institutes (Hagwons): Hagwons are private, often for-profit schools where English is taught after regular school hours. These positions might have a slightly more flexible schedule and offer more freedom in terms of lesson plans, but they can also come with longer working hours. If you are seeking a more dynamic teaching environment, this could be a good fit for you.
4. Apply for a Visa to Teach English in Korea
In order to legally work as an English teacher in South Korea, you’ll need to obtain an E-2 teaching visa. The application process typically involves submitting your degree, criminal background check, health records, and a signed employment contract from your employer. The visa process can take a few weeks, so it’s important to plan accordingly.
Securing a visa is an essential step to becoming an English teacher in Korea. Fortunately, your employer typically sponsors the visa, so you won’t have to manage the paperwork alone. Once your visa is approved, you’ll be all set to start teaching!
5. Search & Apply for Jobs
When it comes to getting a teaching job in South Korea, there are various ways to find opportunities. Many schools and teaching programs have dedicated recruitment channels, and online platforms provide numerous listings for both public and private school positions, such as Full-Time Elementary Teachers, which connect educators with schools across South Korea.
Another excellent option is to consider enrolling in a TEFL course that includes guaranteed job placement. These programs not only prepare you with the necessary teaching qualifications but also simplify the job search by connecting you directly with reputable employers in South Korea.
It’s important to apply early, especially for public school programs, as hiring typically happens in batches—usually in spring and fall. For private language schools, the process is often more flexible, with positions opening throughout the year.
Make sure your resume and cover letter are tailored specifically for the position and demonstrate your enthusiasm for teaching English in Korea.
Read more about how to secure a guaranteed job abroad
6. Prepare for the Cultural Transition
One of the most exciting, yet challenging, aspects of teaching English in Korea is adapting to the country’s culture and lifestyle. While South Korea is a modern and vibrant country, it has unique customs and social expectations that might be different from what you’re used to.
Before you arrive, take the time to learn about Korean culture, the language (though many people speak English, knowing some Korean can help immensely), and the day-to-day life in Korea. There are also plenty of online resources and forums where you can connect with other teachers to ask questions and prepare for the transition.
7. Settle In & Begin Teaching
Once you arrive in Korea, your school or hagwon will typically provide you with housing (often an apartment) and orientation to help you settle in. This is the exciting part of the journey—starting your teaching role and immersing yourself in the culture.
Over time, you’ll refine your teaching skills, learn the ins and outs of the Korean education system, and build meaningful relationships with your students and coworkers.
Begin Your Adventure as an English Teacher in South Korea
Becoming an English teacher in South Korea is a rewarding and transformative experience. By following these steps, you can successfully navigate the process and start teaching in one of the world’s most exciting countries. Whether you want to be an English teacher in Korea for a year or build a long-term career, the opportunities are abundant.
By understanding the basic qualifications, applying for the right visa, choosing the right type of school, and preparing for the cultural shift, you can easily achieve your goal of teaching English in Korea. It’s an experience that will not only shape your professional life but also enrich you personally, as you grow in one of the most dynamic countries in Asia.
