Teaching English in South Korea can be a life-changing experience. You’ll get to dive into a new culture, travel to exciting places, and learn a lot about both Korea and yourself. The job also comes with decent pay, which you can use for traveling, repaying student loans, or saving for future plans.
For some, teaching in South Korea might just be a one-year gig, while for others, it could be the start of a lifelong career. Many teachers move on from South Korea to teach in other countries and schools.
My journey began with a teaching job at a Korean hagwon – a private academy for students from kindergarten to high school. This job not only provided fun and financial rewards but also opened doors to teaching opportunities in four countries, including universities.
If you’re fresh out of university and looking to travel, teaching English in South Korea ticks both boxes. Jobs are available even if you don’t have experience or a specific degree. The contracts often include housing and airfare, so you can explore a new part of the world while saving money.
Teaching at a hagwon doesn’t require expert knowledge of English grammar, just enthusiasm, patience, and an open mind. You can learn teaching methods on the job. If you don’t enjoy it, you can try something else after a year. If you do, you can renew your contract or find different teaching opportunities in Korea or elsewhere.
For better jobs, you might need a TEFL/TESL certificate or even a master’s degree in education. Teaching in South Korea isn’t just about the job; it also offers a gateway to explore Asia, Korea’s dynamic cities, and its outdoor adventures.
Korean culture is rich and diverse, offering experiences like practicing tae kwon do, learning traditional instruments, and studying the Korean language. The country boasts friendly people, fantastic food, vibrant nightlife, and unique leisure activities.
Teaching positions are available at various types of schools, including hagwons, grade schools, and universities. Hagwons are great for those without teaching experience, requiring just a bachelor’s degree. The pay is good, though the hours can be long, but they often come with furnished housing and vacation time.
You can also teach adults, although this market is dwindling. Adult classes usually require advanced grammar knowledge and prior teaching experience. Grade schools offer better pay, shorter hours, and more vacation time but often require a degree in education and some teaching experience.
University jobs are highly coveted, offering fewer working hours and long vacations but require higher qualifications such as a master’s degree or PhD, and previous university-level teaching experience.
Teaching private lessons is common but technically illegal, so it’s important to be discreet and ethical. Requirements for teaching vary, with most schools specifying that you must be from an English-speaking country. Higher-level jobs may require degrees in education and criminal background checks.
Salaries range depending on the type of school and location, with universities usually paying less due to fewer hours but offering more free time. Many jobs come with housing and other benefits. Job opportunities can be found online, and it’s crucial to explore multiple offers to find the best fit.
Teaching English in South Korea can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s essential to approach it with the right mindset and an adventurous spirit. Your experience will be shaped as much by your attitude as by the job itself.