Teach in Korea: Competitive Pay & Great Benefits

Thinking about teaching English in Korea? Salaries remain competitive, and many employers are enhancing benefits, vacation time, and overall work conditions to attract good teachers. While the cost of living has changed over the years, teaching in Korea still offers a strong financial opportunity—especially with smart budgeting. Beyond the paycheck, it’s a chance to experience a vibrant culture, build valuable skills, and enjoy a great work-life balance.

[Image by Brady Bellini via Unsplash]

Why Teach in Korea?

1. Job Security & Benefits

Even though salaries aren’t skyrocketing, most schools still provide free housing, health insurance, and severance pay. That alone can make life here much easier compared to teaching in some other countries.

2. Competitive Work Hours

Korea generally offers fewer working hours than teaching jobs in China or Japan. If work-life balance matters to you, this is a huge plus.

3. The Korea Lifestyle

Korea is modern, safe, and incredibly convenient. Public transportation is cheap, and you’re never far from great food, nightlife, and weekend getaways. Whether you’re into hiking, music, or just café-hopping, there’s always something to do.

4. Unmatched Safety

Korea is one of the safest countries in the world. You can leave your phone and wallet at a bar, come back the next day, and they’ll still be there. People are considerate and avoid causing trouble for others. Even at 2 AM, you can go hiking or take a walk without worrying about safety.

5. Career Growth & Networking

Even if you don’t plan to teach forever, Korea is a great place to build connections. Many expats move into business, content creation, or even tech startups after a few years of teaching.

6. A Break from the Corporate Grind

Feeling stuck in a boring 9-to-5 job back home? Teaching in Korea offers a change of pace. You get paid to live in a different country, meet new people, and experience something completely different—without sitting in an office all day.

7. Schools Are Improving Work Conditions

Korean employers know that fewer teachers are coming compared to the past, so many schools are making real efforts to improve working conditions. Some are offering better vacation time, reduced working hours, and even higher salaries to attract and retain good teachers. While not all jobs are perfect, the overall trend is moving in a positive direction.

8. World-Class Pop Culture

Korea isn’t just about work—it’s also home to globally recognized entertainment. From BTS to “Parasite,” Korean pop culture has taken the world by storm. Living here gives you firsthand access to concerts, K-dramas, and the vibrant entertainment scene.

How Much Can You Earn?

Salaries for English teachers in Korea vary depending on the type of school:

  • Public Schools (EPIK, GEPIK, SMOE, etc.): 2.1–2.8 million KRW per month. Shorter working hours compared to hagwons.
  • Private Language Institutes (Hagwons): 2.5–3 million KRW per month. Work hours are a bit longer—around 30 teaching hours per week, compared to 24 hours per week in public schools
  • University Jobs: 2.5–3.5 million KRW per month. Fewer teaching hours and more vacation time, but harder to land without experience or a master’s degree.
  • International Schools: 3–6 million KRW per month. Higher salaries and benefits, but usually require a teaching license.

Most positions include free housing, health insurance, pension contributions, and severance pay, which helps balance out the lower salary compared to previous years.

[Image by James Healy via Unsplash]

Types of Teaching Positions

Public Schools (EPIK, GEPIK, SMOE, etc.)

  • No flexibility in location
  • 2–4 weeks of vacation
  • Requires a bachelor’s degree & TEFL/TESOL certification
  • In most cases, you’ll be the only native English teacher at your school

Private Language Institutes (Hagwons)

  • More flexibility in location
  • Higher pay. Work hours are a bit longer—around 30 teaching hours per week, compared to 24 hours per week in public schools
  • Vacation time is usually 11 days per year
  • Requires a bachelor’s degree
  • More opportunities to connect with fellow English teachers

Universities

  • Fewer teaching hours (12–20 per week)
  • Long vacations (up to 3 months)
  • Higher competition for jobs
  • Often requires a master’s degree or prior teaching experience

International Schools

  • Best salaries and benefits
  • Licensed teachers preferred
  • Teaching experience required

How to Get a Teaching Job in Korea

Eligibility Requirements

  • Native English speaker from the US, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, or Ireland
  • Bachelor’s degree in any subject
  • Clean criminal background check
  • TEFL/TESOL certification (recommended but not always required)

Application Process

  1. Apply – Find jobs through recruiters, direct applications, or job boards.
  2. Interview – Most interviews are conducted via Zoom or Skype.
  3. Sign Your Contract – Make sure to read it carefully before signing.
  4. Visa Process – Your employer will guide you through the E-2 visa application.
  5. Arrive in Korea – Attend orientation and settle into your new job.

When to Apply?

  • Public school positions hire twice a year (Spring & Fall).
  • Hagwons and private schools hire year-round.le, and a chance to experience a different culture, it’s still a great option.

[Image by shutterstock.com]

[Image by Yonghyun Lee via Unsplash]

Living in Korea: What to Expect

Housing

Most schools provide a rent-free apartment, typically a one-room (officetel). Utilities and internet are your responsibility, but rent savings make a huge difference.

Cost of Living

  • Rent – Usually covered by your school.
  • Food – Eating out is affordable, but groceries can be pricey.
  • Transportation – Cheap and efficient (subway & buses).
  • Health Insurance – National health insurance covers medical expenses at a low cost.

Social Life & Travel

  • Korea has a huge expat community, making it easy to meet people.
  • Travel within Korea is easy—Seoul, Busan, and Jeju are must-visit places.
  • Korea’s location makes it a great base for traveling to Japan, China, and Southeast Asia.

Is Teaching in Korea Still Worth It?

Definitely! Teaching in Korea still offers competitive salaries along with great benefits, making it a financially solid choice. Plus, with a strong work-life balance, exciting cultural experiences, and opportunities for personal and professional growth, it’s more than just a paycheck—it’s a rewarding adventure.