Your First Teaching Adventure in South Korea: A Starter Guide

So, you’re dreaming of swapping your daily routine for the vibrant, fast-paced life of an English teacher in South Korea? You’re not alone. The path from initial curiosity to landing in the classroom can seem daunting, but it’s an incredibly rewarding journey. Let’s break down the key steps to turn that dream into your next reality.

Getting Qualified: Your TEFL Certificate

The golden ticket for most public school programs is a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification.

• Why a 120-hour course? This is the most commonly recommended and often required standard. It signals to employers that you have received comprehensive training.
• Is it hard to pass? A quality 120-hour course is designed to be challenging but absolutely manageable. It equips you with the essential theories and practical skills you’ll need.
• Online vs. In-Person: Online courses offer flexibility, while in-person options provide invaluable hands-on practice. Consider what learning style works best for you.

The goal isn’t just to “pass”; it’s to build a foundation of confidence before you step into your own classroom.

Your Bachelor’s Degree is Your Key

Wondering if your degree in Human Resources qualifies you? The answer is a resounding yes!

• For most public school visas, the subject of your bachelor’s degree is not the primary concern.
• The requirement is simply that you hold a degree from an accredited university.
• Your diverse academic background can even be a strength, bringing a unique perspective to teaching.

Gaining a Foot in the Door

Your one month as a teaching assistant is a fantastic start! It demonstrates an initial interest and experience working with young learners.

• When applying, highlight this experience. Focus on the skills you gained: classroom management, patience, and engaging with children.
• A passion for primary school education is a huge plus. Public school programs often place teachers in elementary schools, making your goal a perfect fit.

Choosing Your Destination: Korea vs. China

Both countries offer incredible opportunities, but they provide different experiences.

• South Korea is known for its highly organized public school programs (like EPIK), strong infrastructure, and a great balance of urban excitement and natural beauty. It’s a fantastic choice for a first-time teacher seeking a structured introduction to living abroad.
• China offers a vast array of opportunities, often with the potential for higher salaries, but in a much larger and more diverse cultural landscape.

There’s no definitive “better” option—it’s about which culture and lifestyle appeals to you more.

Where to Begin in Korea?

For your first year, consider starting outside of the capital.

• Major Metropolitan Hubs (like Seoul or Busan): Incredibly exciting, but highly competitive.
• Smaller Cities or Provincial Areas: These locations often offer a more immersive cultural experience, a closer-knit expat community, and a lower cost of living. They can be a wonderful, less overwhelming introduction to life in Korea.

Understanding Your Accommodation

One of the biggest perks of teaching in South Korea is the accommodation support.

• Most contracts for public school positions include provided housing or a housing allowance.
• The provided housing is typically a small, furnished studio apartment (called a officetel or villa).
• Your school will handle the lease, and you will usually only be responsible for your monthly utilities (electricity, gas, water, and internet).

This benefit removes the immense stress of finding and securing an apartment in a foreign country, allowing you to focus on your new job and adventure.

Taking the leap to teach abroad is a bold and life-changing decision. With the right TEFL certification and a spirit of adventure, you are well on your way to an unforgettable chapter in South Korea.