Korean Hagwon

After spending the last year in Korea I feel sharing my experiences there will be of great assistance to any ESL teachers who are considering or have accepted a position in the country. Firstly, I would like to outline the basic conditions of employment in the country The average salary is around 2,000,000 Won per month, which is equal to around $2,200, this amount is fairly standard whether working at a government school, university or the most common place of employment the all prevalent language school or ?Hagwon? in Korean. Furthermore, your employer will provide free accommodation, round trip air fare and will make a contribution to both the government run health insurance program and pension fund. Additionally upon completion of your contract you will receive...  [Read more]

Given the linguistic dissimilarities between the English and Korean languages, there are inevitably a multitude of pitfalls awaiting the Korean-speaker who seeks to learn English. With nearly eight years of experience teaching in South Korean language centers, locally known as hagwon, I have personally witnessed difficulties involved in nearly all aspects English education, ranging from faulty teaching methods to fundamental difficulties with grammar and phonology. In order to evaluate these problems, some basic features should first be explained. Korean, like Japanese, is officially considered by most linguists to be a language of unknown origin. It does, however, share many common features with Ural-Altaic languages, such as Mongolian and Turkish. As such,...  [Read more]

South Korea is a small but incredibly beautiful country, and during the 4 week TEFL you will have fantastic opportunities to experience the rich culture and history. Not only will you have the chance for local excursions, but based in Incheon, you will be less than an hour away from the lively city of Seoul on the express train. The first week of your program includes in-depth cultural orientations, ensuring you deeply understand the Korean way of life and culture. This includes a welcome dinner, tour of the local neighbourhood and the “Grand” Palace (Gyeongbok Palace), taekwondo class and learning South Korean cookery and language. Incheon is home to Korea’s only official Chinatown, where you can try jajangmyun (noodles with black bean sauce) at the Gongwachun restaurant and for...  [Read more]

Are you an English teacher looking to immerse yourself in a vibrant culture while making a real impact on the lives of students? Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) in Korea could be the perfect opportunity for you. With its unique blend of traditional heritage and modern innovation, Korea offers a dynamic and rewarding experience for educators from around the world. In this guide, we'll explore some of the most popular destinations in Korea for English teachers, providing valuable insights and tips to help you make the most of your teaching adventure. As the bustling capital of South Korea, Seoul is a top choice for English teachers seeking a dynamic and fast-paced environment. With a population of over 10 million people, Seoul is a vibrant metropolis that offers a diverse range...  [Read more]

Exploring the Impact of Government Initiatives on English Education in South Korea The Korean government has been proactive in implementing initiatives to enhance English education in the country. These efforts have been driven by the recognition of the importance of English proficiency in the globalized world. This article delves into the various government-led programs and policies aimed at improving English education in South Korea and examines their impact on students, teachers, and the education system as a whole. Government Initiatives for English Education in South Korea The South Korean government has introduced several initiatives to promote English proficiency among its citizens. One of the key programs is the English Program in Korea (EPIK), which recruits native English...  [Read more]

1. Overview of ESL Teaching in South Korea 2. Qualifications and Requirements 3. Job Market and Opportunities 4. Culture and Lifestyle in South Korea South Korea has emerged as one of the most sought-after destinations for English as a Second Language (ESL) educators looking to teach abroad. With a high demand for English language skills and a strong emphasis on education, South Korea offers a wealth of opportunities for qualified teachers. This article will provide an overview of ESL teaching in South Korea, including qualifications and requirements, the job market and opportunities available, as well as insights into the unique culture and lifestyle in this East Asian nation. ESL teaching in South Korea is primarily focused on teaching children and young learners, with a growing demand...  [Read more]

The vast majority of teachers who work in South Korea are employed by either a government run public school or a private language school known as a hagwon. Both types of employer offer good salaries and other benefits but there are a few differences that might sway your decision either way. Most public and private school positions are filled in advance, meaning you will apply and interview for the job before you leave your home country. The hiring process for public schools generally follows a set timetable that includes two regular start dates. Online applications begin in April for start dates in August/September, and in October for start dates in February/March. A large number of teachers in public schools are hired through government recruitment programs such as EPIK (English...  [Read more]