Teaching English in South Korea: What It’s Really Like from Day One

Stepping off the plane in South Korea to start your TEFL adventure can feel like a whirlwind of excitement, jet lag, and nervous anticipation. One teacher recently shared their honest experience of arriving in the country and beginning their first job. Here’s what that transition actually looks like, from the airport pickup to the first day of class.

The Arrival and First Impressions

Landing at Incheon Airport is an experience in itself. You’ll be greeted by modern terminals, helpful signs in English, and a clean, efficient atmosphere. If your recruiter or school arranges a pickup, someone will likely be holding a sign with your name—a reassuring sight after a long flight. The drive to your new city or town might be your first real look at Korean life: neon signs, endless apartment complexes, and mountains rising in the background.

Your New Apartment: Simple but Functional

Most hagwons (private academies) provide housing for foreign teachers. You can expect a small studio or “officetel” with basic furniture, a bed, a mini kitchen, and a bathroom. Often, the previous teacher might have left behind some kitchen supplies or even a rice cooker. It won’t be luxurious, but it’s a safe, clean place to rest. The first night is usually a blur of unpacking and crashing from fatigue.

Orientation and Paperwork

Your first few days may involve visiting the immigration office for your Alien Registration Card (ARC) and getting a health check. The health check can be a bit awkward—think chest X-ray, blood test, and even a vision test—but it’s a necessary step for your visa. You’ll also need to open a Korean bank account and get a local phone number. Schools usually have a coordinator to help with all of this, which is a lifesaver.

Meeting Your Coworkers and the School

Your school environment can vary wildly. Some teachers find incredibly supportive Korean co-teachers and friendly staff who take them out for lunch. Others may have a more hands-off experience. You’ll likely be given a tour of the school, a curriculum binder, and a classroom. Pay close attention during training—every hagwon has its own way of managing behavior and tracking student progress.

The First Day of Teaching

Your first class is usually a mix of nervous energy and student curiosity. Expect wide eyes, shy smiles, and maybe a few students who know more English than you anticipated. Younger students might be energetic and chaotic; older ones might be reserved. The key is to establish your classroom rules and routines early. Games and songs work wonders for elementary kids, while middle schoolers appreciate structure and respect.

Culture Shock and Adjustment

Within the first week, you may feel a wave of culture shock. The language barrier, the food smelling different, the constant bowing, and the difficulty of simple tasks like buying snacks can make you feel isolated. It’s completely normal. Many new teachers find comfort in expat Facebook groups, walking around their neighborhood, or exploring local convenience stores (which are amazing in Korea).

Finding Your Rhythm

By the end of your first month, things start to feel more familiar. You’ll learn which subway line takes you home, which convenience store has the best ramyeon, and which local coffee shop has reliable Wi-Fi. You’ll start picking up basic phrases like “annyeonghaseyo” (hello) and “kamsahamnida” (thank you). You may even have bonded with a few students who wave at you from across the street.

What You Wish You Knew Before

Most teachers agree on a few things: bring deodorant from home (hard to find in Korea), download a translation app immediately, and don’t overpack clothes—you’ll want to buy stylish Korean outfits within weeks. Also, be patient with yourself. You didn’t become a great teacher overnight, and you won’t master Korea in a week. Give yourself grace.

Teaching English in South Korea is a wild, rewarding ride. From the first confusing day to the moment you finally feel at home, it’s an experience that changes how you see the world—and yourself.