What kind of contract will I get working for a hagwon in South Korea?

Working for a hagwon in South Korea typically involves signing a contract known as an E2 visa contract. Here are some key details about the contract you can expect when working for a hagwon in South Korea:

E2 Visa Contract: This contract is specifically designed for English teachers working in South Korea. It is a legal requirement for foreign teachers to obtain an E2 visa to work in a hagwon.
Contract Length: Contracts for hagwon teachers in South Korea usually range from 12 to 24 months. Some schools may offer shorter contracts, but the standard length is typically one year.
Working Hours: The contract will specify the number of teaching hours per week, as well as any additional duties such as lesson planning, grading, and attending staff meetings.
Salary and Benefits: The contract will outline your monthly salary, which is often paid on a regular basis. It may also include benefits such as housing, airfare reimbursement, health insurance, and severance pay.
Vacation and Holidays: The contract will detail the amount of paid vacation days you are entitled to, as well as public holidays that are recognized by the hagwon.
Termination Conditions: The contract will specify the conditions under which either party can terminate the employment, including notice periods and any penalties for early termination. It is important to carefully review and understand the terms of your contract before signing to ensure a smooth and successful experience working for a hagwon in South Korea.

What are the typical working hours for teachers at a hagwon in South Korea?

Teachers at hagwons in South Korea typically work long hours, often extending into the evenings and weekends. Here are some details regarding the typical working hours for teachers at hagwons in South Korea:

Regular Working Hours: Teachers at hagwons usually work from late morning to early evening, typically from around 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm or 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm. These hours can vary depending on the specific hagwon and the age group of students they are teaching.
Split Shifts: It is common for hagwon teachers to have split shifts, meaning they have a break in the middle of the day when there are no classes scheduled. This break can be used for lesson planning, grading, or other administrative tasks.
Weekend Work: Some hagwons require teachers to work on Saturdays, with a shorter workday compared to weekdays. Sundays are usually off, but some hagwons may have special events or classes on Sundays as well.
Overtime: Due to the nature of hagwon work, teachers may need to stay late to prepare for classes, attend meetings, or participate in other school activities. Overtime pay or compensation for extra hours worked may vary.
Vacation Time: Teachers at hagwons typically have a set number of vacation days per year, which can include national holidays and additional days off.

What benefits are usually included in contracts for hagwon teachers in South Korea?

Benefits included in contracts for hagwon teachers in South Korea typically vary depending on the institution and the specific terms negotiated, but some common benefits may include:
Housing: Many hagwons provide furnished accommodation or a housing stipend to help teachers with living expenses.
Airfare: Some contracts include reimbursement for airfare to and from South Korea or a flight allowance.
Health Insurance: Employers often provide health insurance coverage for teachers.
Paid Vacation: Contracts usually include paid vacation days, typically ranging from 10 to 20 days per year.
Severance Pay: Upon completion of a contract, hagwon teachers are entitled to receive severance pay equal to one month's salary for each year worked.
Work Visa Sponsorship: Employers typically assist with obtaining and renewing work visas for their teachers.
Professional Development: Some hagwons offer opportunities for professional development, such as workshops or training sessions.
Other Benefits: Additional benefits may include bonus incentives, assistance with local amenities, and sometimes even language classes for teachers to learn Korean.

Is housing provided for teachers working at hagwons in South Korea?

Yes, housing is commonly provided for teachers working at hagwons in South Korea. Hagwons, which are private language academies in South Korea, often include housing as part of the employment package for foreign teachers. Here are some key points to consider regarding housing provided by hagwons in South Korea:

Typically, hagwons offer furnished accommodation near the school where the teacher will be working.
The housing provided can vary in size and quality depending on the hagwon and its location.
Utilities such as water, electricity, and internet may or may not be included in the housing package, so it's important to clarify this with the employer.
Some hagwons may offer a housing allowance instead of providing accommodation directly. In this case, teachers would be responsible for finding and paying for their own housing.
It's essential for teachers to carefully review the housing arrangements outlined in their employment contracts to ensure they understand what is included and what is expected of them in terms of accommodation. Overall, while housing is often provided for teachers working at hagwons in South Korea, the specific details can vary, so it's crucial for teachers to clarify housing arrangements with their prospective employers before accepting a position.