Reasons to Teach English in Korea
1. Newbie friendly
There are many reasons to teach English in Korea and it is truly one of the best countries for a new teacher just starting out. Korea has had a big EFL industry for many years. I got my start there in 1992 and it was huge even then. So they are quite familiar with all the anxieties and issues that the first time foreigner will bring with them. They will already know the places for you to shop for food your are familiar with, that you will want to get your phone set up, get your computer connected at home and work and that you might be a little less than confident your first day at school.
One thing: Koreans can be a bit shy with foreigners, but if you initiate a big smile, they will smile right back at you. Adults especially tend to keep a serious look on their face, but you’ll be surprised how quickly they will return your friendliness.
2. Best wages for starting out
Where else can you start out entry level on a new job and easily save US$1000 a month? No where. Common benefits in addition to that decent wage is a one month bonus for each year you work there, usually paid when you leave the country. Free accommodation. Very low taxes compared to what you would pay in a Western country. They will usually even reimburse your airfare. No, they won’t usually pay it upfront as too many people took a free flight to Korea and never showed up for work!
3. Easy language to learn
Korean is probably the easiest of the Asian languages to learn. The spelling, which can look like chicken scratch at first, is actually really easy to learn. Korean words are spelled phonetically, so once you learn to read and write (you can learn the alphabet in two hours – easily), you can quickly pick up a basic vocabulary. Yes, there are some intricacies and tricky spots, but you can pretty quickly learn some basic communication.
4. Very developed country
Korea is a developed country and in some ways more developed than some Western countries. You’ll have easy access, usually at a good price, to the best computers, broadband, smart phones and any other technology you might want. National infrastructure tends to be pretty good, there is a great, cheap and very punctual bus and train system. Get out in the countryside in the springtime. It is absolutely beautiful!
5. Food
Last but certainly not least is the great Korean food. If you don’t like garlic it might not be your thing, but if you do, you will be in heaven. From kimchee to octopus fried rice, wow! Get ready for a mouthful of flavor. There are some foods that are not so great, but that’s true in any country.
There is much much more to Korea than this brief summary. I taught there for six years. Two different visits of three years each time. Loved it both times!
For proper working papers Korea will require a bachelor’s degree and many employers also request a TEFL certification.
There you go, a great case for considering Korea as your first stop on an around the world teaching tour.
Check out our TEFL Jobs in Korea page and find yourself a job!
Korean Buddhist Temple – Beautiful!
Reasons to Teach English in Korea
