Country Report - Teach English in South Korea

Teach English in South Korea - ESL Teaching Jobs, Hiring Season, Work Visas, Summer Job Opportunities, EPIK Program

Why Teach in South Korea

Along with being a great place to explore, enjoy entertainment, and witness history, South Korea also features one of the world’s largest ESL markets. There are a wide range of teaching jobs for native English speakers with a TESOL certification in South Korea. An advantage for North Americans is the fact that many South Korean schools want their students to have Canadian or American accents, which means residents from North American nations are much more marketable to recruiters. An understanding of the English language is something that South Koreans value, with most post-secondary institutions requiring a test of this skill before offering students admission into their programs.

Many English teachers are attracted to the idea of living in the Korean capital of Seoul, which is the second largest metropolis in the world and is filled with museums, technology and culture. However, anywhere in South Korea would be worth traveling to for someone seriously considering a career in ESL. A typical English teacher’s salary will average around two million Korean Won monthly. With most schools paying for their teachers’ apartments, contributing to their healthcare premiums, offering severance packages, and covering airline tickets, many English teachers have found that South Korea is a lucrative place with some mindful budgeting.

What to Know About Teaching English in South Korea

Housing

The good news is that most schools will include their English teacher's apartment rental cost as part of their salary. Many ESL teachers are surprised by the size of an apartment and the included amenities once they move in. South Korean living spaces are much smaller than their North American counterparts, and they usually do not include ovens, only stove-tops.

Often a school will give teachers a choice between having their own private apartment or sharing a larger space with another English teacher; there are pros and cons to both situations. Sharing an apartment with someone else will allow you to make quick friendships with any roommate(s) and their network of friends. There are a lot of things to take into account for an English teacher setting foot on Korean soil for the first time, and having a roommate can help make this transition smoother.

Having a private apartment ensures that an English teacher has privacy and lots of quiet time to prepare lessons and mark assignments. Many English teachers prefer their own apartment. Single apartments are often smaller than the shared counterparts and can be isolating, especially for someone who has just moved to South Korea.

English teachers may have the rent for their apartment covered by their school, but most will be responsible for paying the utility, phone, Internet, and other monthly household bills. Bills will rarely cost over 116,350 KRW for a teacher living a moderate lifestyle.

Many Koreans who call an apartment 'home' are not tenants but owners. Apartments are purchased because they are much more affordable than houses and they are close to conveniences such as grocery stores, entertainment, and other common destinations. Many larger private English schools own their own apartments or apartment buildings for their teachers to live in.

Expected Apartment Costs

There are some English teachers not offered accommodations as part of their contract. Although rare, this is more likely to happen in a large urban city like Seoul, or for a job in a public school. Positions without accommodations included will typically offer a higher rate of pay. In South Korea, English teachers typically have a much higher income than that of an average family of four. Finding an apartment and saving some money should be a fairly easy task if one is careful.

Typically, an English teacher should be able to find an apartment for 700,000 Won to 1,000,000 Won monthly. Renting an apartment in Seoul could cost a little extra. Most landlords will ask for a 'wolsei' (deposit); the amount is determined by the cost of monthly rent.

Airfare

There is such a high demand for English teachers in South Korea that many schools will pay for their teacher's airline ticket up front, while others will reimburse. This means that the teacher is initially required to pay for a one-way ticket to South Korea, but will be reimbursed when their contract or probationary period has expired. If a contract is broken before its end date, the teacher will have to pay the school back for whatever they received in compensation.

Health Benefits

One benefit to teaching English in South Korea is a top-notch health care system. The medical system in South Korea is similar to most developed nations, and most schools will pay for half (or all) of their teacher's health care premiums. Even without coverage, medical treatment in South Korea is surprisingly inexpensive. Cosmetic procedures are a common example of inexpensive medical care. Some teachers enjoy having the added protection of private medical insurance to cover anything not provided by the public South Korean system. Prescription drugs also tend to be very inexpensive.

Retirement Age

'Mandatory retirement' is a common phrase in South Korea. This policy allows businesses the ability to reject applications from candidates over 55. It is still possible to work in Korea past the age of 55 if a school or business wants to hire you. The legal age of retirement is 62, and it becomes much more difficult to find employment past that age.

In addition to modifying the retirement age of South Korean workers, the government also lessened the time of mandatory military service to get younger workers in the job market earlier. The rules concerning mandatory military service have loosened enough to allow many young Koreans an opportunity to get a good post-secondary education.

Technology and Advancement

The technology industry was one of the main elements that turned South Korea from one of Asia's poorest nations to one of the world's wealthiest. This transformation, nicknamed the Miracle on the Han River, means advancements in technology are abounding across the country. Popular South Korean companies like Hyundai, Kia, LG, and Samsung have products that are well-known by consumers around the world. South Korea has been also been working with the Russian Federal Space Agency to develop new space technologies. With Russia's help, the first South Korean rocket will be launched into space in the near future.

English teachers from America have access to similar technologies in South Korea. Modern conveniences such as high-speed Internet and cell phone service are very easy to obtain, even by foreigners. Cell phones work on the tops of mountains as well as the deepest subway stations.

American Food

One of the main reasons many English teachers come to South Korea is to sample Korean food, but sometimes it is hard to ignore a craving for food from back home. There are plenty of options for eating North American food in South Korean cities. Many large grocery stores will also offer North American products, allowing English teachers to prepare their own familiar recipes at home.

South Korea has all of the major American fast food chains in its urban areas; McDonalds has been in the country since 1988. However, western restaurant chains have found that in order to be successful they must fuse their products with Korean cuisine. An example of this hybrid would be the bulgogi burger offered at Korean McDonalds restaurants. In addition to fast food, there are many independently-owned and operated restaurants that offer traditional American foods like burgers, steak, ribs, Tex-Mex Chicken, etc.

Transportation in South Korea

There are many elements that make up the South Korean transportation network; roadways, rail, air, and even marine transportation make the Korean transportation system world class by any standard. . The biggest obstacle ESL teachers will face while commuting is the language barrier; though most signs have English interpretations, many transit employees do not communicate in English.

The transportation system in South Korea offers very affordable prices for both long-distance travel and commuting. When compared to the United States, South Korea is tiny in size, and with the many travel options available to ESL teachers it is possible to explore the vast majority of the nation within a short timeframe.

Public Transportation

• Taxi

  Many ESL teachers find taxis to be a quick and safe way to get around the city. As time passes, more and more drivers are able to speak English. When it comes to getting a taxi there are two methods: waiting at a taxi stand (found in larger cities), or hailing one on the street. If an ESL teacher is in a rush, they can use a phone and call for a taxi but rates are much higher this way. Cars who have not been called are likely to drive by without stopping, while some drivers may stop and hope you'll help them practice their English. Attempts at speaking Korean always appreciated.

  When riding in a taxi, don't be surprised if the driver stops and picks up other people. Most cab companies in South Korea have a shared cab system; the driver will pick up other customers traveling in the same direction.

  Calling for a 'mobom' (high-end taxi) could be an option if money is not a concern and one is looking to travel in style. These cars are more expensive than a normal taxi but offer much more comfort and speed. Often used for business, moboms are black with a yellow sign on the top of the car.

• Train and Subway

  The train system in South Korea is one of the world's finest. The railway is used for both commuting and the movement of goods across the country and abroad. The railroad has changed since its beginnings at the end of the 19th Century, as much of it needed repair after WWII and the Korean War. Over time, rail connections across the North Korean border have been severed, but the Korean rail system continued to grow into the modern enterprise it is today. South Korea's railway system is maintained and managed by the state-owned company, Korean National Railroad (Korail).

  ESL teachers can take advantage of routes that connect Seoul to other major Korean cities, running every 15 to 60 minutes. There are four types of long-distance travel trains in South Korea:

  • The Korea Train eXpress (KTX) - The pride of the Korean rail system with an estimated 70,900 passengers per day, the KTX is a commuting option for many. The high-speed train currently operates on two lines: the Gyeongbu Line (which connects Seoul, Busan, Daejeon, and Daegu) and the Honam Line (which connects Yongan, Gwangju, and Mokpo). The KTX travels at a speed of 300 km/hour, but is capable of reaching a speed of 350 km/hour.
  • The Tonggeun - This train pauses at all stops along a route including many small rural destinations. Unlike the other trains, there are no reserved seats on the Tonggeun. Train tickets for this train are the cheapest, but it is much slower than any other train.
  • The Mugunghwa-ho - The most popular way to travel the rails in South Korea is by hopping on the Mugunghwa-ho. Designed to have a lot of standing room, this train does not make as many stops as the Tonggeum and offers reserved seating as an option.
  • The Saemaul-ho - The Saemaul-ho train makes a lot of stops during its route, but makes up time with its increased speed between stations. A Saemaul-ho ticket will also ensure ESL teachers a seat which is much more comfortable than cheaper fares.
  • Subway - The subway system in South Korea is another important part of the Korean transit system. The first subway system was built in Seoul in 1974. Currently, there are four fully functioning subway systems in South Korea with two new ones in development. Commuters in Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Gwangju, Daejeon, and Incheon can get around town via the underground train. A huge advantage for ESL teachers taking the subway is the fact that there are many English signs explaining each stop at subway stations. Even above ground, teachers use subway stops as helpful landmarks and often carry a subway map to get from place to place.
• Bus

  Most towns and cities in South Korea have access to a bus transit service. Many English teachers find traveling by bus harder than by subway due to the language barrier. Buses are not known to have a lot of route information in English. There are four different types of buses to choose from when traveling in a Korean city:

  • Shioe bus - These buses are for smaller routes. Shioe buses make a lot of stops in a short amount of time so they move at a fairly slow pace.
  • Gosok bus - Traveling in a Gosok bus makes getting around the streets of a Korean town a much quicker process. These buses travel faster because they make fewer stops and seats are much more comfortable than a Shioe bus. A ticket to ride a Gosok bus is more expensive then its counterpart, but many English teachers are happy to shell out a couple extra Won. The South Koreans find buses to be a great way to not only travel around the city, but to commute longer distances. Bus services vary from region to region, but there are two major types of long-distance busing systems:
  
  
  • Doshihyeong bus - These buses are usually used to travel from a rural area to a city. There are a lot of stops on a Doshihyeong bus, so people in a rush should consider other transportation options. There are usually a few very uncomfortable seats on the bus. Though it may not be luxurious, it's one of the cheapest ways to travel.
  • Jwaseok bus - English teachers looking to travel a long distance in a short amount of time and in comfort should consider riding on a Jwaseok bus. There are only a few stops on the Jwaseok bus and seats are very comfortable compared to its Doshihyeong counterpart. Ticket prices are more expensive, but this bus is a good way to ensure timely arrival to most destinations in South Korea.

Other Modes of Transportation

• Bicycle

  Traveling by riding a bicycle is a popular way to get around Korean streets, but it is not as popular as in other Asian nations. The South Korean Home Affairs Ministry estimates that one out of every seven people ride a bicycle as their primary form of transportation. Bike paths and bicycle racks on streets are common, making bike-riding a great transportation method; however riders should be wary of automobiles when on the road, as they don't always follow traffic laws. The Ministry predicts that one-quarter of all South Koreans will use a bicycle as their primary mode of transportation by 2015, thus helping the environment, combating reliance on fossil fuels, and ensuring cyclists can ride safely to work.

• Motor Vehicles

  The '80s were a time of growth for South Korea, evident by the massive upgrading of the Korean roadway system. During this decade, dirt-covered roads were paved over and massive freeways were built. ESL teachers interested in driving while living in South Korea should be warned that Korean roads are known for being crowded and full of aggressive drivers.

  Foreigners staying for a short period of time are able to use an International Driver's License (IDL). An IDL can be purchased at an ESL teacher's local driver registration office for a small fee.  Americans and Canadians, who  decide to get a South Korean driver's license will find the process to be much easier than in many other countries. Drivers can get their North American licenses converted by submitting a passport, their current driver's license, an Alien Registration Card (a passport with exits and entries into Korea will also work), three photos, and the 17,000 Won fee. For more information about obtaining a Korean driver's license, visit http://www.dla.go.kr/eng/main.jsp.

Banking in South Korea

Setting up bank accounts for foreign ESL teachers is a typical part of the job for Korean bank employees. Many larger banks try to gain more international business from native English speakers by having on-site translators to ease the communication barrier. It is still best to for ESL teachers to bring someone along with them if the bank does not have any staff members that speak English. Many schools will have a bilingual staff member to help their ESL teachers settle into South Korea.

Korean banks offer similar services and accounts to other banks around the world, but there are little to no service fees on a Korean bank account, making banking in South Korea unique. To set up a bank account ESL teachers should bring a passport, a Certificate of Alien Registration, and their visa. It's important to note that most bank machines close (and are locked) around 10 PM local time.

Peak ESL Hiring Season in South Korea

The demand for ESL teachers in South Korea is constant, which means the peak hiring season lasts 365 days a year. For Korean public schools, the main hiring times are February and during the summer break. There are new job postings on the Internet every day, and South Korean streets and newspapers are always filled with job notices regardless of the season. ESL teachers about to move to South Korea have the unique advantage of deciding what time to begin teaching English in the country.

Public School System

Teaching in a South Korean public school has its advantages for ESL teachers. What attracts many teachers to the public school system is the money. English teaching positions in a public school typically pay a standard rate depending on qualifications, while payment from academies or hagwans (private education companies) varies depending on many factors. Many ESL teachers also feel more secure working at a public school because they are mandated and run by the Korean education system. Teachers looking for employment in a South Korean public school should be aware that these positions offer more vacation time but they may only work with one to three other foreigners.

Private Language Schools

The easiest place for ESL teachers to find employment in South Korea is in hagwans. A hagwan is a privately-run school which offers classes in English. Hagwans vary in size and amount of staff; they also vary in the courses offered to their students. When doing an Internet search, it is easy to spot both stories of positive and negative experiences teaching in hagwans. Remember that these are businesses, and while some might seem to place a higher importance on generating profit than the education of their students, don’t let horror stories scare away a great opportunity. Asking questions when being interviewed for a teaching job and spending some time researching any school that may be interested in hiring is great advice no matter where an ESL teacher is applying. Pay is typically higher than in public schools and working with several other foreigners is more common.

Universities and Colleges

Universities and technical colleges in Korea almost exclusively hire from the large pool of ESL teachers already in the country and these positions are highly sought after. Applicants should have at least three years of experience working in the overseas ESL market to be considered. However, because there are a significant number of colleges and universities operating in the country, the potential for a serious ESL teacher’s career growth is almost limitless. Many of these jobs pay similar wages to teaching in the public school system, and compensate this discrepancy by offering more benefits, including more vacation time.

Private Tutoring

It is possible to make some extra money working as an English teacher offering private tutoring to South Korean students. Teachers thinking about offering private English lessons should consult the contract they originally signed with the school. Many schools stipulate that teachers may not teach English anywhere other than in the school that hired them. Violating this agreement will risk many elements of an ESL career in South Korea and could result in the loss of a job, monetary fines, or deportation. Be sure to discuss the possibility of teaching private English lessons with any employer before signing a contract. If an English teacher is able to work delivering private lessons, they will be able to charge around 25,000-50,000 Won hourly.

EPIK [English Program in Korea]

EPIK was established by the National Institute for International Education in 1995 to improve the English-speaking abilities of students and teachers in public schools throughout Korea. ESL teachers are encouraged to apply through their local Korean embassy or consulate. Guidelines for qualifications include being a citizen of a country where English is the primary language, and holding at least 2 years of university course experience or a completed degree. Placements are made in September and March, but applications are accepted year-round. Interested individuals should note that contracts with EPIK are for a minimum of one year, renewable each year following, and that preference is given to degree holders with previous experience working with children.

SMOE [Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education]

Much like EPIK, SMOE (Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education) is a government-run group that manages schools in Seoul. SMOE currently administers over 2000 schools, with more than 1.5 million students in Seoul.

How to Find Jobs Teaching English in South Korea

There are many websites which feature lists of schools looking for TESOL certified teachers to teach English in South Korea. Decide which elements of teaching English in South Korea are important before applying for any teaching jobs. Individual answers to the following questions should provide some insight:

• Does working in a large urban area such as Seoul appeal more than working in a smaller rural region?
• How much of a factor is salary and quality of accommodations when considering applications to teaching jobs?
• What level of English would students need to communicate?
• What age range would the ideal classroom have?
• Are there any concerns about taking public transit?
• Would sharing a home with roommates cause an issue?
• Is travel important? How much off-time would the ideal teaching position offer?

Resources that may include ESL teaching jobs are:

• Oxford Seminars' Global ESL Schools Directory
• http://www.eslcafe.com/jobs/korea/
• http://www.esljobs.com/
• http://www.justlanded.com/english/South-Korea/
• http://seoul.craigslist.co.kr/

Korean Newspapers

• http://www.koreaherald.co.kr/
• http://www.koreatimes.co.kr

Largest Chain Schools in South Korea

South Korean parents consider knowledge of the English language to be a very high priority for their children often spending large portions of their income on additional private education. With such a large ESL market, there are many chain schools and academies specifically for teaching English in all regions of South Korea, 12 months a year.

• Berlitz - One of the largest international chain schools in the world, Berlitz is a great place for any English teacher looking to find a job in South Korea. The chain school has locations in Seosomun-dong, Kwanghwamun, Yeouido, Kangnam, and Samseong.
  http://www.berlitz.com
• ECC - ECC has locations throughout South Korea; over 70 offices within Seoul alone. Being a large company, they are able to offer very competitive salaries and opportunities for their teachers. There are ECC schools in Seoul, Incheon, Ilsan, Bundang, Daejeon, Daegu, Changwon, and Busan.
  http://www.ybmecc.co.kr/index.asp
• Ding Ding Dang - Since the early '90s, Ding Ding Dang has been offering students between the ages of four and 18 years an education based on an English curriculum. Ding Ding Dang currently has schools spread across South Korea.
  http://www.dingdingdang.com
• Korea Connections - Korea Connections is a great resource for ESL teachers looking for jobs teaching English in Korea. Since 2005, Korea Connections has been placing ESL teachers in Korean English-language classrooms; many of their students are placed with SMOE.
  www.koreaconnections.net

Other Jobs Teaching English in South Korea

With English being the international language of business, many Korean companies are incorporating English lessons into their employee’s work day. South Korean businesses find it easier to hire in-house English teachers rather than send employees to a hagwan. These jobs typically have longer hours than a public school or hagwan, and usually do not include accommodations. ESL teachers choosing this career path will make an average monthly salary of 1.75 million Won.

Additional ESL Resources to Help Teach English in South Korea

The following links are recommended resources for individuals interested in ESL teaching in Korea:

• Oxford Seminars' ESL Teaching Resources
• Wikipedia article on South Korea - http://en.wikipedia.org/
• Language Guide - http://www.jobmonkey.com/teaching/asia/html/korean_words.html
• Official site of South Korea - http://www.korea.net/

Preparing to Teach English in South Korea

Like in most nations, displaying proper etiquette in South Korea is an important element to career success and the ability to effectively communicate.

General Etiquette

• Most Koreans will greet others with a handshake, but some may prefer the traditional bow. Follow the other person's lead and match your greeting to theirs.
• It is common to hear someone say "manasuh pangap seumnida" as they are greeting you. This Korean phrase translates into "Pleased to meet you".
• Superstition is an integral part of Korean culture. The number 4 is considered to be bad luck, while the number 7 brings good luck. For example: when giving flowers, never give four flowers at a time - it would better to offer seven.
• • Unlike in North America, lines form directly behind cash registers, ATMs, and bathroom stalls.
• Men do not usually wear jewelry in Korea; however, it is acceptable to wear wedding bands and watches.

Business Etiquette

• When someone offers a long bow at the end of a meeting, it is a way to communicate that the meeting was successful.
• Korean business etiquette calls for the exchange of business cards early into a meeting.
• Much business is completed by making appointments and attending meetings; not keeping or going to one could be costly.
• The Koreans view a contract as a set of guidelines and starting points. It is important to be flexible when it comes to a South Korean contract, and modifying agreements is not a sign of disrespect. This is something that every English teacher in South Korea should be aware of.

Eating Etiquette

• When dining in someone's home, it is important to wait to be seated by the host.
• Always remove outdoor footwear before walking into any Korean residence. It is common for indoor footwear to be provided.
• Koreans are known for being upfront; this is not to be mistaken as rude.
• Send a hand-written thank you note to the host the day after attending a dinner party.
• During a meal the oldest guests and those highest in seniority are always served food first.
• It is common to bring a small gift when invited to someone's home. However, do not spend too much money because the person will feel they must spend the same amount on a future occasion.
• Try all the dishes offered and be sure to have an empty plate at the end of the meal. It is okay to turn away a second helping of food.
• When leaving a dinner party, the host of the evening will usually walk the guest to their car or to the sidewalk.

Chopstick Etiquette

• Koreans avoid using their hands to eat, so chopsticks and a spoon must be used whenever possible.
• Never stab at food with chopsticks.
• Be sure that chopstick tips are never pointed in anyone's direction.
• Place the chopsticks down on the table every few bites, also while speaking.
• Never place chopsticks parallel across the soup bowl, as this is a sign of disrespect.

Kim Jong-il and North Korea

Citizens of today’s South Korea have seen their nation transform itself from the images of the Korean War to that of a thriving economic leader in Asia. In recent history, the world has focused in on the negative attention generated by North Korea and its leader, Kim Jong-il, but steps are being taken to reunify both ends of the Korean Peninsula. There have been American soldiers stationed in South Korea since the end of the Korean War, but the tensions have calmed down over recent years as both nations met in 2007 and signed an agreement that will allow for peace, open borders for transportation including rail, and joining elements of their separate economies.

Language in South Korea

Although it borrows some from Chinese, Japanese, and even English, the Korean language is truly Korea's own. There are even differences in the way Korean is spoken in South Korea compared to across the border in North Korea. The Korean language can be found around the world in China, Japan, the Philippines, and even in Canada and the United States. Some examples of the Korean language can be found below:

• Hello
  Annyong haseo
• Thank you
  Kamsa-ham nee-da
• How much is that?
  Ol-ma-im-nee-kka?/Ol-ma-yay-o?
• Americans
  Mee-gook
• What's your name?
  Eee-ru-mee oh-toe-kay dwee-shim-nee-ka?
• Excuse me
  Cho-gee-yo
• Have a good day
  Cho-une-ha-ru-twaysayo
• My name is ________
  Chee-ear-ee-mun-______-eem-nee-da
• English teacher
  Yong-oh Kang-sa
• How do I get to _______?
  _______-eo Otoke kamyun doipnikka?
• Goodbye
  Annyonghi gaseyo

The South Korean government offers free Korean lessons with audio on the following website: http://www.korea.net/korea/kor_loca.asp?code=L0603

Eating in South Korea

Korean Cuisine

Korean cuisine has elements of Buddhist, Chinese, and Japanese food, but possesses its own unique flavor, making it well-known around the world. Like many countries, the dishes in Korean cuisine vary from region to region, each area adding their own local ingredients to their dishes. Many of the recipes for popular South Korean dishes also offer little direction, which allows for a lot of the creativity and diversity a single dish can obtain across the country.

Some historians believe that the first humans to prepare rice for food were in fact from the Korean Peninsula, debunking the traditional belief that the Chinese were the first to eat the grain. Many people around the world think Korean food is spicy due the cultural reliance on seasonings such as peppers, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, mustard, and vinegar.

Citizens of Korea are surrounded by water, and this is made evident in many Korean dishes featuring a wide assortment of sea food. Koreans are also known for having a good mix of fresh produce, grains, and meats. Many dishes feature tofu, vegetables, rice, and noodles. A typical Korean diet consists of many meats including fish, pork, and chicken. Occasionally beef is eaten, though it is expensive and thus usually reserved for holidays. Some regions still have people also incorporating dog into their diet; nationally, it is not nearly as popular as other meats, and is often consumed on holidays only.

One thing that makes Korean food stand out from the cuisine of other nations is the amount of banchan (side dishes) served throughout the course of a meal. The banchans are usually meant to accompany plain steamed rice. This ensures that ESL teachers will experience a wide range of flavors and come to enjoy the extensive amount of time a good meal can last.

Some of South Korea's more popular dishes include:

• Kimchi - South Korea's most popular banchan. There are a wide variety of kimchis in Korea, but all dishes are vegetables (usually cabbage) fermented with various spices, vegetables, and meats. Each region adds different ingredients to their kimchis and the food will often vary depending on what time of year it was prepared in. Kimchi is eaten with every meal.
• Jajangmyeon- Jajangmyeon is so popular in South Korea that many restaurants will deliver it right to their customers' doors. This dish consists of rice noodles served in a black bean sauce with various meats, vegetables, and spices mixed in.
• Patbingsu - In the summertime, it is hard to avoid eating patbingsu; on the other hand, no one should miss this Korean treat. Starting as a food sold by merchants on the street, patbingsu is now a huge business in South Korea. The basic ingredients of a patbingsu are sweetened red beans with ice shavings. Every patbingsu maker has their own way of making this great treat by adding fruits, candy, grains, ice cream, and yogurt.
• Gimbap - Known mostly as a snack food, gimbap consists of white rice mixed with other ingredients rolled in dried seaweed. It is likely that gimbap from one city will taste completely different than that of another due to the openness of the recipe. There are many 'fast food' restaurants in South Korea that serve gimbap as their staple food because it is quick to eat and prepare, very popular, and a variety of ingredients can be used to make it unique.

Dog Meat

South Koreans frequently endure debates and protests about whether or not eating dog meat is cruel, or if it is an acceptable part of Korean culture. While it is true that dog meat is still eaten in some areas of South Korea, it is not as controversial as some North Americans may think. Traditionally popular during the summer months because it is believed to have a cooling effect on the body, some Koreans still believe that food which includes dog meat has medicinal purposes, especially concerning male fertility. Many dishes that traditionally featured dog have now been modernized to include chicken or other meats as substitutes.

The Korean government asked Koreans not to prepare dog meat during the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul and the 2002 FIFA World Cup because they were afraid that this would injure the nation's animal rights activism and blossoming modernization. ESL teachers have no need to worry about eating dog. Due to the public outcry against it, the majority of Korean restaurants will not serve it and many never would, regardless of public resistance. It usually takes an effort to find restaurants that serve dog. Like in America, most dogs are simply household pets, not food.

Food Costs in South Korea

One of the best ways to make an ESL teacher's paycheck stretch a little further is by doing some grocery shopping and cooking meals at home. Eating out in a restaurant is a great way to experience South Korean cuisine, but it does get expensive. A lot of grocery shopping in Korea is done at the local street market, but there are large supermarkets in cities that will also offer a wider variety of food for a higher price. Below are some examples of typical South Korean food prices:

• Coca Cola
  421 KRW (per can)
• Milk
  1,348 KRW (1L)
• Cup of coffee
  2,643 KRW
• Bottle of Water
  358KRW (500ml)
• Gimbap (see above)
  1,843 KRW
• Beer
  4,000 KRW (per bottle)

Climate in South Korea

The weather in South Korea is temperate, meaning that there are four unique seasons in a year. Summer months are warm with high amounts of rain and winter months are cold. There are some regional differences in weather, as Korea’s southern coastline has warmer temperatures in the winter compared to most of the nation.

Natural Disasters in South Korea

South Korea is in a region of the globe that experiences a summer typhoon season. During the typhoon season, it is not uncommon to see flooding due to an increase in rainfall. Hurricanes occasionally make their way to the Korean Peninsula. However, ESL teachers should not let the Korean climate stop them from teaching English. Upon arriving in South Korea, be sure to pay attention to local weather forecasts and take weather warnings seriously. Spring and fall seasons are ideal for traveling and sightseeing.

Holidays in South Korea

South Korean holidays reflect the love Koreans have for a good time, being with loved ones, and remembering the nation's past. The country uses the traditional Korean calendar, which is lunisolar, as well as the Gregorian calendar to mark time. Koreans may not have as many national holidays as other nations, but some of their holidays last for three days at a time.

• January 1 - New Year's Day (Sinjeong) - A holiday which celebrates the first day of the Gregorian calendar (paid holiday)
• First Day of the Lunar Year - Korean New Year (Seolnal) - A three-day long celebration which many Koreans consider as one of the most important holidays in the country (paid holiday)
• March 1 - Independence Day (Samil Jeol) - Samil Jeol is a remembrance day for South Koreans to honor their ancestors which protested against Japanese rule (paid holiday)
• May 5th - Children's Day (Eorininal) - Since 1975, the South Koreans have joined many other nations around the world and celebrated the accomplishments of their children (not a paid holiday).
• Eighth Day of the Fourth Month of the Lunar Calendar - Buddha's Birthday (Bucheonim Oshinnal) - Usually occurring in May, there are large celebrations in temples across South Korea.
• June 6th - Memorial Day (Hyeonchung-il) - Korean Memorial Day is a day of paying respect to the Korean soldiers who are currently part of the military and those whom have served in the past in the Korean War and World War II.
• July 17th - Constitution Day (Jeheonjeol) - This holiday marks the anniversary of Korea's constitution in 1948.
• August 15 - Liberation Day (Gwangbokjeol) - A celebration to remember the end of the Japanese rule of Korea during the WWII era.
• 15th Day of the Eighth Month of the Lunar Calendar - Harvest Festival (Chuseok) - Usually falling in September, this three-day holiday is celebrated to mark the tradition of giving thanks for a good harvest. ESL teachers should be aware that part of the Harvest Festival is traveling to ones' ancestral hometown. This means that careful planning is required if a teacher intends to travel during this holiday due to increased road and commuter traffic (paid holiday).
• October 3 - National Foundation Day (Gaecheonjeol) - A day to celebrate the creation of Korea's first kingdom (then called Gojoseon) which occurred in 2333 BCE.
• December 25 - Christmas (Seongtanjeol) - Since 1949, the South Koreans have celebrated Christmas. Many Koreans are not Christian but they still give gifts and sing Christmas carols.

Tips for ESL Teachers in South Korea

• There are a lot of opportunities for ESL teachers in South Korea, so decide what type of English teaching job is the best fit. Elementary school positions are the most common.
• Learning the Korean language overnight is impossible, but it is highly recommended to spend some time learning as many common phrases as you can. In many urban areas, it is possible to find free Korean language lessons.
• For the most part, Korean apartments are smaller than those in North America. Do not expect to have a lot of space for items that can easily stay at home.
• The majority of schools will pay for air transportation, but some do so by refunding the amount for the first ticket after a contract or probation period has ended. Bring this initial cost down by spending some time researching various options on the Internet.
• Practice using chopsticks. Do not come to South Korea expecting to use a fork and knife in public.
• Moving to the other side of the world usually means that ESL teachers must find someone they trust to manage their finances while they are gone. Some choose friends or family while others opt to speak to a professional financial advisor. Many services can be suspended until a teacher returns from overseas.

Requirements to Teach English in South Korea

Getting a South Korean Working Visa

After offering a job to a native-speaking English teacher, a school must submit a visa application (E-2 Language instructor visa) for their new employee at the Ministry of Justice and the Entry Inspection Division of Immigration Office. Once the document is approved, the English teacher will be given a Visa Issuance Confirmation Number (VICN) which must be submitted at their South Korean embassy or consulate office. The processing time for this application is usually five days. After completion, the teacher will be given a one-year work visa which can be renewed endlessly. Once a teaching job has been accepted, be sure to ask about the visa application steps.

Documentation needed from the English teacher:

• A valid six-month passport
• Two passport-size photographs
• The resume submitted for the job that was offered
• Copies of all diplomas and all relevant academic certifications (including TESOL Certification)
• The original contract or job offer provided by the Korean school
• The job description of the English teaching position that has been accepted

Be sure to call ahead to confirm all of the documentation needed. There is additional documentation needed if English teachers are bringing family members.

• Two passport-size photographs of each applicant
• Copy of marriage certificate if bringing a spouse
• Copies of all the applicants' birth certificates
• Everyone must have passports valid for six months; a copy of each person's passport must also be submitted

Documentation that will be submitted by the Korean School includes:

• Letter of invitation
• Copy of the school's Registration Certificate under the Foreign Investment Promotion Act
• Copy of the school's Corporate Registration
• A Certificate of Tax Payments for the previous year
• Information about the current foreign teachers they are employing

Working Holiday Visa

One option that some Canadians may find appealing is the South Korean working holiday visa (H-1 visa). Korea has working holiday visa agreements with Canada, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. This visa is meant to allow citizens from other nations to vacation in Korea and work at the same time to help maintain their travel costs. This visa will expire after six months, but can be renewed for another six-month period, so teachers interested in staying longer will need to research other options. This visa can work for ESL teachers wanting to teach English in South Korea, but permission must given by a teacher's future employer.  The American government currently does not have a Working Holiday Visa agreement in effect with Korea.

Requirements for EU Citizens to Teach English in Korea

Like most Asian nations, there is little difference in the visa application for EU citizens compared to English teachers coming from other nations. Citizens of an EU nation must work with their future Korean employer and go to their local South Korean embassy or consulate office to apply for an E-2 Language instructor visa.

Embassy and Consulate Information in South Korea

The United States of America Embassy and Consulate Offices in Korea

Embassy of the United States in Seoul
Embassy of the United States Seoul
32 Sejongno, Jongno-gu
Seoul 110-710
Republic of Korea
City: Seoul
Phone: 82 2 7397 4114
Fax: 82 2 7397-4080
Email: seoul_acs@state.gov
Website: http://seoul.usembassy.gov/
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 11:45 am; 12:45 pm to 4:30 pm

U.S. Consulate General in Busan
Lotte Gold Rose Building, #150-3
Yangjung-dong, Busanjin-gu
Room No. 612
Federal Republic of Korea
City: Busan
Phone: 82 5 1863 0731
Website: http://busan.usconsulate.gov/

Canadian Embassy and Consulate Offices in Korea

Canadian Embassy in Seoul
16-1, Jeong-dong, Jung-gu
CPO Box 6299, Seoul, Korea 100-662
City: Seoul
Phone: 82 2 3783 6000
Fax: 82 2 3783 6239
Email: Form on website
Website: seoul@international.gc.ca
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 11:45 am; 12:45 pm to 4:30 pm

The Canadian Consulate in Busan
The Consulate of Canada, Pusan
c/o Dongsung Chemical Co. Ltd.
472 Shin Pyung-dong, Saha-gu
Busan, Korea 604-721
City: Munich
Phone: 82 5 1204 5581
Fax: 82 5 1204 5580
Email: seoul@international.gc.ca

Australian Embassy and Consulate Offices in Korea

Australian Embassy in Seoul
19th floor, Kyobo Building,
1 Jongro 1-ga
Jongro-gu, Seoul 110-714,
City: Seoul
Phone: 02 2003 0100
Fax: 82 2 2398 2800
Email: seoul-visa@dfat.gov.au
Website: http://www.southkorea.embassy.gov.au
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to noon; 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm

Australian Consulate-General in Busan
Room 802 Samwhan Officetel
830-295, Bumil 2-dong
Dong-Ku, Busan 601-709
Republic of Korea
City: Busan
Phone: 82 5 1742 3989
Fax: 82 5 1647 1764
Email: seoul-visa@dfat.gov.au
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to noon; 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm

British Embassy and Consulate Offices in Korea

British Embassy Seoul
Taepyeongno 40
4 Jeong-dong
Jung-gu 100-120
Seoul
City: Seoul
Phone: 82 2 3210 5500
Fax: 82 2 725 1738
Website: http://ukinkorea.fco.gov.uk/
Normal Hours: Monday to Thursday, 9:00 am to 5:15 pm (closes at 5:00 pm on Fridays)

Irish Embassy and Consulate Offices in Korea

Irish Embassy in Seoul
Embassy of Ireland
13th Fl. Leema Bldg.
146-1, Susong-dong
Jongro-ku, Seoul
110-755
City: Seoul
Phone: 82 2 7774 6455
Fax: 82 2 7774 6458
Email: seoulembassy@dfa.ie
Website: http://www.irelandhouse-korea.com/
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to noon; 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm

New Zealand's Embassy and Consulate Offices in Korea

New Zealand Embassy in Seoul
Kyobo Building, 15th Floor
1 Jongno 1-ga, Jongno-gu
KPO Box 2258, Seoul, 110-110
Republic of Korea
City: Seoul
Phone: 82 2 3701 7700
Fax: 82 2 3701 7701
Email: nzembsel@kornet.net
Website: http://www.nzembassy.com/home.cfm?c=8
Normal Hours: Monday to Thursday, 9:00 am to 5:30 pm

Embassy and Consulate Information Outside South Korea

Embassy the Republic of Korea in the United States of America

2320 Massachusetts Ave. NW.
Washington, DC 20008
City: Washington DC
Phone: 1 202 939 5663/5660
Fax: 1 202 342 1597
Email: consular_usa@mofat.go.kr
Website: http://www.dynamic-korea.com/
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to noon; 1:30 pm to 5:00 pm

Consulate general offices are located in major cities and offer full services including consular services. Honourary consulates offer a limited range of services including consular services. A full list of Korean consulates in the US can be found at: http://www.dynamic-korea.com/consulate_service/information2.php.

Korean Embassy and Consulate Offices in Canada

Korea, Republic - Diplomatic Missions Embassy of the Republic of Korea
150 Boteler Street
Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 5A6
Canada
City: Ottawa
Phone: 1 613 244 5010
Fax: 1 613 244 5043
Email: canada@mofat.go.kr
Website: http://can-ottawa.mofat.go.kr/eng/
Normal Hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to noon

Consulate general offices are located in major cities and offer full services including consular services. Honourary consulates offer a limited range of services including consular services. A full list of Korean consulates in Canada can be found at: http://can-ottawa.mofat.go.kr/eng/index.jsp.

* Exchange rates are subject to change. Check www.xe.com for current rates.
** Information is updated regularly, so check back for more details about teaching English in South Korea
† The Big Mac Index is a credible, reliable, third-party cost-of-living index created by The Economist. For comparison purposes, it lists the cost of an American Big Mac at $3.54.

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