Teaching in South Korea offers a unique opportunity to enrich your career, get involved in a stimulating educational environment and immerse yourself in an exciting culture. Whether you’re enticed by the buzz of a metropolis, a rich history or the chance to make a difference every day in the classroom, South Korea has so much to offer. From guides to job applications to teaching techniques, this guide will give you all the information you need to teach in South Korea, and prepare you for your life abroad.
Why Teach in Korea?
1. Cultural Richness
South Korea offers a mix of the old and the new, and travelling from the ultra-modern metropolis of Seoul to the Rembrandtesque ancient city of Gyeongju gives a glimpse of the country’s constantly evolving culture. In the classroom, teachers can amble into one of Seoul’s many traditional food markets, sample a bit of kimchi while wrapped in a hanbok and warmed by a brazier, and come out feeling enriched and wiser.
2. Professional Growth
South Korea is very education-focused, meaning that its academic levels are very high. It will allow you to work with some very motivated students, but will also help develop you as a teacher by working with those exceptional students, while developing your own skill.Aside from the exposure, South Korea has a very involved system with teaching, with regular training and workshops being provided for teachers.
3. Competitive Salaries and Benefits
There, you can find very competitive salaries and excellent benefits; most programs will provide you with a package that includes living accommodation, reimbursement for the cost of the flight to Korea, as well as health insurance. In this country, you will be spending much less than you would on rent in most western nations, so your salary will go a long way, while still allowing you to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.
Types of Teaching Positions
1. English Conversation Program (EPIK)
The English Program in Korea (EPIK) is a government-sponsored programme where native English teachers are placed in public schools throughout South Korea for one year. EPIK teachers are paired with local Korean co-teachers, and together they try to help students enhance their English skills by focusing on speaking and interacting in English as much as possible.
2. Hagwon (Private Language Schools)
Hagwons refer to private language academies, which teach children and sometimes adults English. These teaching semesters may require different hours as well as class sizes, but generally, hagwons offer a more structured teaching experience compared with stepping into a public school.
3. University Positions
It is generally only when one goes to work in a Korean university, which usually requires a higher level of education and experience, that you will find fewer teaching hours and more academic freedom to specialise in subjects you are interested in, or perhaps even doing some research work.
How to Apply
1. Research Programs
Prior to applying, learn more about teaching programmes and jobs in South Korea. Many programmes, such as EPIK, GEPIK (Gyeonggi English Program in Korea) and private recruiting agencies, have different stipulations and benefits. Having this knowledge will help you to determine which programme works best for your goals and preferences.
2. Prepare Your Documents
When applying, you’ll need to prepare several documents, including:
Resume/CV: Highlight your teaching experience, education, and relevant skills.
Covering letter: Make sure you tailor this for each position.Why are you interested in working in Korea? What can you bring to the role?
Teaching Certificate: A TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA certification is often required.
Transcripts and Degree Certificates: Proof of your educational background.
Background Check: A clean criminal background check from your home country.
3. Interview and Placement
This can be a video interview or a phone interview, depending on the programme or the school. You might be asked to share your teaching philosophy, approaches to classroom management, and your motivation for teaching in Korea. If you are selected, you will be offered a placement and begin preparing to move overseas.
Preparing for Your Move
1. Cultural Adjustment
Unlike the west, South Korea is a complex culture with social norms and customs. If you want to assimilate a bit, try to pick up some basic Korean phrases, familiarise with Korean etiquette, and an appreciation of korean culture. One reassuring aspect is that most programmes will have to help new teachers to adjust to life in Korea.
2. Housing and Living Arrangements
Housing or a housing allowance is almost always included in a teaching contract, so confirm the type and location of housing as soon as you can. You may end up in a shared apartment, or in a studio flat of your own.
3. Financial Preparation
Before moving, make sure you have enough savings to pay for setup expenses such as furnishing your apartment and buying necessary belongings. While your salary should cover most expenses, it’s nice to have extra money to catch you in a financial bind, no matter how slight.
Life in Korea
1. Travel and Exploration
While in Korea, you have the chance to travel around a country that is a treasure trove of natural scenery and history. You can visit Jeju Island or the royal remains of Seoul or Busan. If you have some spare time in Korea, use it to your advantage to see more of what this beautiful place has to offer.
2. Food and Dining
From kimchi and bulgogi to bibimbap, Korean food is diverse and flavourful.Visit local markets, try street food, get involved with the cuisine.
3. Social Life and Community
Meeting others and forming a social network is a powerful way to help you feel at home in Korea. Connect with expat communities, attend meetups and general interest groups, and meet fellow teachers at your workplace. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of this opportunity to start a new life and forge new friendships.
Challenges and Solutions
1. Language Barrier
Few people in Korea speak English, and even fewer outside of urban areas do. You might be surprised to find that people in modern Korean restaurants cannot understand your words, nor can the employees in department stores. It might be a good idea to learn some basic Korean as well as a translation app, as understanding the culture and people will be simpler when you can communicate with them.
2. Cultural Differences
Cultures are different, which can feel daunting – especially in the first few months. Be ready to be adaptable, flexible and open-minded to create a positive experience. Showing cultural sensitivity and adaptability will help you integrate into the culture of your university and school, while at the same time will make your overall experience more enjoyable and lead to forming positive and trusting relations with students and colleagues.
Conclusion
Learning to teach in Korea will be a challenging and rewarding experience. By doing your research and preparing well, embracing the ups and the downs of living and working abroad in Korea, you will be rewarded with growth as a teacher, profound cultural exposure and personal transformation.No matter if your are a recent graduate or a veteran teacher seeking career advancement; no matter if you are a passionate educator, an adventurous traveller or curious about Korean culture, teaching really can be a pathway to deep personal growth and career transformation.
