Early Steps to Life in Korea

The first step to teaching English in Korea is to determine if you meet the eligibility criteria and to thoughtfully consider which type of teaching position best suits your goals and lifestyle. Most English teaching opportunities require applicants to be native English speakers from countries such as the USA, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa. A bachelor's degree in any field is the minimum educational requirement, but some schools and programs may ask for additional credentials, such as a TEFL/TESOL certification or prior teaching experience. It's wise to check specific requirements for the positions you're interested in, as these can vary between employers and programs.

Equally important is deciding what kind of teaching environment appeals to you. South Korea offers a range of settings, including public schools (through government programs like EPIK or GEPIK), private language institutes known as hagwons, universities, and even corporate or business English positions. Each environment has its own advantages and challenges.

Teaching in public schools typically means working standard daytime hours with generous vacation time and greater job security, though you may face larger classes and less curriculum flexibility. At hagwons, you'll likely earn more and teach fewer students per class, but expect evening or weekend shifts and limited time off. University and corporate positions feature adaptable scheduling and mature students, yet these roles usually demand advanced credentials or previous teaching experience.

Reflect on your preferred student age, work schedule, and location preferences before applying. Read testimonials from teachers to find environments that match your personality and goals. This targeted approach will help you secure a position that makes your time in Korea truly fulfilling.