TEFL in South Korea: Your Complete Guide

South Korea continues to be one of the most popular destinations for English teachers worldwide, offering competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and a fascinating blend of traditional culture and ultra-modern living. If you’re considering teaching English in Korea with your cheap TEFL course certification (hopefully from us, but no hard feelings if not), here’s everything you need to know.

Teaching Opportunities

South Korea invests more per capita on English language education than any other country in the world, demonstrating the tremendous importance placed on English proficiency. The job market remains robust with opportunities in various settings:

– Private Language Schools (Hagwons): These are the most common employers, offering positions teaching children, teens, or adults. Quality varies significantly, so research is essential.
– Public Schools: Programs like EPIK (English Programme in Korea) and GEPIK (Gyeonggi English Program in Korea) place thousands of teachers in state schools across the country.
– International Schools: These offer higher salaries but typically require teaching credentials and experience.
– Universities: Positions are competitive but offer excellent working conditions and vacation time.
– Business English: An increasingly popular sector, especially in major cities.

Qualification Requirements

To teach legally in South Korea, you’ll need:
– A bachelor’s degree in any subject
– A clean criminal background check
– TEFL/TESOL certification (strongly recommended)
– Citizenship from an English-speaking country (typically USA, UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa)
– E2 visa (arranged by your employer after contract signing)

Salary and Benefits

South Korea offers some of the most financially rewarding TEFL positions globally:
– Monthly salary: 2.1-2.8 million won ($1,800-$2,400)
– Free accommodation or housing allowance
– Return airfare reimbursement
– Medical insurance
– Severance pay (one month’s salary after completing a one-year contract)
– Paid holidays
– Contract completion bonus

Most teachers can comfortably live on 1 million won per month, allowing them to save a significant portion of their income.

Visa Process

The E2 visa is required for all foreign English teachers in South Korea. Your employer will typically handle most of the process:

1. Secure a teaching position
2. Submit authenticated documents (degree, criminal background check, etc.)
3. Receive a visa issuance number
4. Apply at your local Korean consulate
5. Undergo a medical examination upon arrival in Korea

Living Conditions

Accommodation provided by employers is usually small but comfortable, especially in major cities. The further you get from urban centers, the larger the living spaces tend to be. Regardless of location, you’ll find yourself in a modern, sometimes futuristic setting with excellent infrastructure.

Cost of Living

Monthly expenses (approximate):
– Accommodation: 500,000-1,200,000 won (often covered by employer)
– Utilities: 250,000 won
– Doctor’s visit: 160,000 won
– Monthly transport pass: 55,000 won
– Dinner for two: 30,000 won
– Coffee in expat area: 4,000 won

Cultural Experience

South Korea offers a fascinating blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology. In major cities like Seoul and Busan, you’ll find a cosmopolitan atmosphere with plenty of international restaurants and expat communities. However, venturing into smaller towns provides a more authentic cultural immersion experience.

Korean locals may initially seem reserved, and foreigners sometimes attract curious stares, especially in rural areas. With time and an open attitude, you’ll find Koreans to be warm, generous, and eager to share their culture.

Working Culture

The work environment in South Korea can be demanding, with high expectations and sometimes limited flexibility. The education system is highly competitive, and parents invest heavily in their children’s English education. This creates a high-pressure atmosphere but also means that teaching is a respected profession.

Most teaching positions require 20-30 classroom hours per week, though preparation time can add significantly to your workload. The academic year typically begins in March, with a second intake in August/September.

Safety and Considerations

South Korea boasts an extremely low crime rate, even in major cities, making it one of the safest countries for expatriates. While tensions with North Korea occasionally make headlines, the day-to-day reality for teachers is one of safety and stability.

Best Locations

-Seoul: The capital offers the most job opportunities and a vibrant urban lifestyle with excellent transportation and amenities.
-Busan: South Korea’s second-largest city features beautiful beaches, milder weather, and a more relaxed atmosphere than Seoul.
-Daegu, Daejeon, and Gwangju: These smaller cities provide a good balance of urban conveniences and a more authentic Korean experience.
-Rural placements: These offer deeper cultural immersion and often larger accommodation, though social life may be more limited.

Final Thoughts

Teaching in South Korea presents an excellent opportunity to save money while experiencing a fascinating culture. The combination of good salaries, comprehensive benefits, and modern living conditions makes it an ideal destination for both new and experienced TEFL teachers. While the working culture can be demanding and the cultural adjustment significant, most teachers find their time in South Korea to be rewarding both professionally and personally.

Whether you’re drawn to the bustling streets of Seoul or the quieter charm of rural Korea, this dynamic country offers a unique teaching experience that combines professional development with cultural adventure.

Detailed E2 Visa Details for the ‘Lucky 7’

So, you’ve landed a teaching job in South Korea? Congratulations! Now comes one of the final hurdles before you can start your adventure – securing your E2 visa. Don’t worry, while the process might seem daunting at first, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to walk you through everything you need to know, regardless of which country you’re applying from.

What is an E2 Visa?

The E2 visa is the official visa status for English teachers coming to South Korea. This process begins after you’ve submitted your final documents to your school/recruiter and have been sent a visa issuance number. The entire process typically takes six to eight weeks to complete, so plan accordingly!

General Timeline

For first-time teachers, obtaining your E2 visa from abroad usually takes less than a week once your documents reach the Korean consulate, but can sometimes stretch to 2-3 weeks. You can speed things up by visiting your local Korean consulate in person rather than relying on mail. If a consulate is too far away, express mail is your next best option.

Step-by-Step Process for All Applicants

Step 1: Document Collection and Authentication

This is where the process differs slightly depending on your nationality. Let’s break down the core documents everyone needs:

1. University Degree – Must be a Bachelor’s degree (minimum) in any subject from an accredited university
2. Criminal Background Check – Cannot be more than six months old when applying
3. Health Statement – A self-completed questionnaire (note: you’ll undergo a full medical exam after arriving in Korea)
4. Passport Photocopy – Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity and 1-2 empty pages
5. Resume/CV
6. Signed Copy of School Contract
7. Passport Photos – At least 5 standard passport-sized photos (not older than 6 months)

Step 2: Send Documents to Korea

Once your documents are properly authenticated (more on country-specific requirements below), you’ll need to send them to your school in Korea. They’ll take these to the Ministry of Justice and Immigration to get your Visa Issuance Number.

Important shipping tips:
– Use a reliable courier service with tracking (FedEx or UPS) – avoid regular postal services: DHL sometimes opens all documents, meaning your transcripts would be unusable, so we cannot recommend them
– Keep your tracking information and share it with your school/recruiter
– This typically costs $40-80 depending on the service and weight. Prices change.

Within 7-12 working days, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Visa Issuance Number (looks like: UJBO 08007392), which you’ll need for the next step.

Step 3: Apply at Your Local Korean Consulate

With your Visa Issuance Number in hand, you’ll submit your application to the Korean consulate with jurisdiction over your area. You’ll need:

– Completed E2 Visa Application Form
– Your passport (with 6+ months validity and at least one empty page)
– A passport photo
– Your Visa Issuance Number
– Application fee (varies by country)
– Any additional country-specific requirements

Processing time varies from same-day to 5 business days depending on the consulate. You can either pick up your passport in person or have it mailed back (include a self-addressed return envelope if choosing this option).

Step 4: Receive Your Visa and Prepare for Departure

Once you receive your passport with the E2 visa, you’re ready to begin your Korean adventure! Your school/recruiter should be working with you on flight arrangements and airport pickup.

Country-Specific Requirements

For Americans:
Document Authentication:
– Degree: Notarized photocopy with Apostille from Secretary of State
– Criminal Background Check: FBI check with Apostille from Department of State in Washington, DC

Consulate Locations:
– Korean Embassy in Washington, DC: 2450 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008
– Korean Consulate in New York: 460 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10022
– Korean Consulate in Los Angeles: 3243 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010
– Korean Consulate in San Francisco: 3500 Clay St, San Francisco, CA 94118
– Korean Consulate in Atlanta: 229 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30303
– Korean Consulate in Boston: 300 Washington Street, Newton, MA 02458
– Korean Consulate in Chicago: 455 N Cityfront Plaza Dr, Chicago, IL 60611
– Korean Consulate in Honolulu: 2756 Pali Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96817
– Korean Consulate in Houston: 1990 Post Oak Blvd, Houston, TX 77056
– Korean Consulate in Seattle: 2033 6th Ave #1125, Seattle, WA 98121

Visa Fee: $45 USD (cash or money order)

For Canadians:
Document Authentication:
– Degree and Criminal Record Check: Notarized with Consular Seal from Korean Consulate
– Additional requirement: One more set of sealed university transcripts

Visa Fee: Contact consulate for current fees

For UK Citizens:
Document Authentication:
– Degree and DBS Check: Notarized photocopy with Apostille from Foreign and Commonwealth Office
– Note: As of January 17, 2022, UK citizens MUST apply through the Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC) in London

Visa Fee: £25

For Irish Citizens:
Document Authentication:
– Degree and Criminal Record Check: Notarized with Apostille from Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade (DFAT)

For Australians:
Document Authentication:
– Degree: Must be verified by the central student administrator office of your issuing institution before notarization, then Apostilled by DFAT
– Criminal Record Check: Apostilled by DFAT

For New Zealanders:
Document Authentication:
– Degree and Criminal Record Check: Notarized with Apostille from Department of Internal Affairs (DIA)

For South Africans:
Document Authentication:
– Degree: Verified by South African Qualifications Authority, then Apostilled by Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO)
– Criminal Record Check: Apostilled by DIRCO

**Visa Fee:** R350.00

Important Notes for All Applicants

– The medical exam in Korea tests for narcotics, TB, HIV, and other communicable diseases. Failing this exam could result in visa revocation.
– Marijuana use is a criminal offense in Korea and is taken VERY seriously. Do not bring or use any drugs in Korea.
– Always call your consulate before submitting documents to confirm their specific requirements.
– For most nationalities, you’ll want a multi-entry visa if you plan to travel outside Korea during your contract.
– Typical teaching salaries range from 1.8-2.8 million Won per month ($1,500-$2,300 USD), often with housing provided.

Once you’ve completed all these steps, congratulations! You’re ready to embark on your teaching adventure in South Korea. The country offers an amazing blend of ancient traditions and ultra-modern living, making it a fantastic place to teach and explore.

Obtaining an E2 Visa: Country-by-Country Guide in Short

United States

American teachers need to prepare thoroughly for their Korean E2 visa application. Start by getting your bachelor’s degree notarized and apostilled by the Secretary of State in the state where your notary is located. For your background check, only FBI checks are accepted, which must be apostilled through the Department of State in Washington, DC. This process can take 6-8 weeks by mail, so consider using expedited services.

When applying at the Korean consulate, you’ll need your completed application form, passport with at least 6 months validity, a passport photo, visa issuance number, sealed university transcripts, and $45 USD (cash or money order). Americans typically receive multi-entry visas automatically, allowing travel outside Korea during your contract period.

Canada

Canadian applicants face slightly different requirements. Your degree must be notarized and receive a consular seal directly from the Korean consulate. For your background check, obtain a national criminal record check from the RCMP including fingerprints. This comes certified and doesn’t need additional notarization.

Canadians should note they need an extra set of sealed university transcripts, as this is specifically required by Canadian Korean consulates. When sending documents to Korea, use only FedEx or UPS for reliable tracking. The visa application fee varies, so contact your consulate for current rates.

United Kingdom

UK citizens must now apply through the Korea Visa Application Center in London, operated by the International Organization for Migration. Your degree needs to be notarized and apostilled by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. For your background check, a basic DBS check is sufficient, but must be apostilled.

The visa fee is approximately £25, and UK teachers typically receive single-entry visas initially. You can convert to a multi-entry visa after receiving your registration card in Korea (for an additional fee). This allows you to travel outside Korea without invalidating your visa.

Ireland

Irish applicants need their degree and criminal record check notarized and apostilled by the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade. Criminal record checks can be obtained through Ireland’s National Police & Security Service. If your criminal record check isn’t signed by the issuing officer, you’ll need notary verification before apostille.

Send your documents to Korea using FedEx or another international shipping company with tracking capabilities. The visa application process follows the standard timeline of 7-12 working days for the visa issuance number, followed by consulate processing.

Australia

Australian teachers face unique requirements. Your degree must first be verified by your university’s central student administrator office before notarization. Both your degree and criminal record check (obtained through the Australian Federal Police) must be apostilled by the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade.

In capital cities, apostille services are available at your local passport office. When applying at the consulate, ensure your passport has at least two completely empty pages and 6+ months validity remaining.

New Zealand

New Zealand citizens need their degree notarized and apostilled by the Department of Internal Affairs. Criminal record checks can be ordered through the Criminal Records Unit at the Ministry of Justice, which is free but takes at least 20 working days to process.

If your criminal record check isn’t signed by the issuing officer, you’ll need notary verification before apostille. The Korean Consulate in Auckland serves Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Northland, and Gisborne regions.

South Africa

South African applicants must have their degree verified by the South African Qualifications Authority before getting it apostilled by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation. Criminal background checks must be obtained from the South African Police Service, which can take up to 28 working days.

The visa application fee is R350.00, payable by cash or money order. South Africans typically receive multi-entry visas immediately upon application. The Korean Consulate in Pretoria handles applications from all of South Africa, with visa issuance typically taking 3 working days.

Remember that regardless of your nationality, you’ll need to undergo a medical examination after arriving in Korea, which tests for narcotics, TB, HIV, and other communicable diseases. Most teaching positions offer salaries between 1.8-2.8 million Won monthly, often with accommodation provided, allowing teachers to save a significant portion of their income while enjoying a comfortable lifestyle in this modern, dynamic country.