Teaching English in South Korea Archives | TEFL Institute Sat, 07 Nov 2026 18:12:12 +0000 en-IT hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 How to Teach English Online to Korean Students: Platforms, Pay and What They Ask For https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/teach-english-online-korean-students/ https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/teach-english-online-korean-students/#respond Fri, 06 Nov 2026 23:25:40 +0000 https://teflinstitute.com/blog// How to teach English online to Korean students: Ringle, Carrot Global, Cafetalk and NativeCamp, what each asks for and pays, Korean peak hours in South African and US time, and the certificate that helps.

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]]> Last reviewed: 6 November 2026

You can teach English online to Korean students through Korean companies built for the job, such as Ringle and Carrot Global, through Japan based platforms with a large Korean student base, such as NativeCamp and Cafetalk, and on the global marketplaces. Korean employers favour native speakers, often ask for a degree, and pay best for adult professionals and speaking test preparation.

Korea spends more per head on private English tuition than almost any country on earth, and a growing share of that money now goes to a tutor on a screen rather than a teacher in a hagwon. For a South African in Pretoria or an American in Austin that means a steady, well organised market with evening and early morning demand, materials supplied, and students who turn up. It also means a set of hiring rules that are stricter than the global marketplaces, so this guide sets out who hires, what they ask for, what they publish about pay, and which qualification gets you through the door. Figures were taken from each company’s own tutor page or listing on the dates shown and converted at the European Central Bank reference rates of 6 November 2026. If you are still deciding on a certificate, our guide to the best TEFL certification to teach English online compares the options across every major platform; this page is the Korean chapter of it.

Key takeaways

  • The two best known Korean companies hiring foreign tutors online are Ringle, which recruits current students and graduates of leading universities for adult professionals, and Carrot Global, which hires native speakers with a degree for video and phone lessons.
  • Ringle’s tutor site headlines US$17 to US$22 an hour (about R281 to R364). Carrot Global’s August 2026 listing starts US and British nationals at US$11 to US$13 an hour and South Africans at KRW 13,000 to 14,000 an hour, about R158 to R170.
  • Cafetalk and NativeCamp both serve Korean learners alongside Japanese ones. Cafetalk requires a teaching certificate for English tutors and lets you set your own price; NativeCamp pays about US$9 for a booked 25 minute class.
  • Korean peak demand runs 6 am to 10 am and 6 pm to midnight Korean time, which is 11 pm to 3 am and 11 am to 5 pm in South Africa, and 4 pm to 8 pm and 4 am to 10 am in the eastern United States during November.
  • A 120-hour TEFL certificate is preferred or required everywhere except Ringle and the conversation marketplaces, and a Level 5 TEFL Diploma is what separates you on business English and speaking test work.
  • Teaching in Korea through EPIK or a hagwon is a different track with a visa, a degree requirement and a background check; online work has none of those, which is why many teachers use it to test the market first.

Who hires teachers to teach English online to Korean students?

Three kinds of company hire teachers to teach English online to Korean students: Korean firms that recruit foreign tutors directly, regional platforms based in Japan whose student base spills into Korea, and the global marketplaces where Korean learners search for a tutor by profile. The table shows the ones we could verify on their own pages or current listings.

Platforms for teaching English online to Korean students: students, requirements and published pay (checked on the dates shown; figures approximate; rand conversions at ECB reference rates of 6 November 2026)
Platform Korean students What it asks for Lesson format Published pay Checked
Ringle Adult professionals, plus Ringle Teens for school pupils Native level English; current students and graduates of leading universities, around 70 percent from top 30 US schools by its own figures; no TEFL or experience required 20 or 40 minute one to one lessons on Ringle’s materials; mock session and orientation before you start Headline US$17 to US$22 an hour (about R281 to R364) 6 Nov 2026
Carrot Global Adult professionals in Seoul, some school pupils Native English speaker, university degree, teaching experience, hard wired internet, 25 or more hours a week in peak times Video and phone lessons of 10 to 30 minutes, materials supplied US$11 to 13 an hour for US and British nationals; CAD 13 to 15 for Canadians; KRW 13,000 to 14,000 an hour (about R158 to R170, US$9.60 to US$10.30) for South Africans Listing of Aug 2026
Cafetalk Adults in Japan, Korea, Taiwan and China Native or near native speaker with a teaching certificate; not open to current students You design the lessons; students buy points, 1 point = 1 yen You set your price; Cafetalk’s fee falls the more you teach; minimum payout 3,000 yen 6 Nov 2026
NativeCamp Mostly Japanese, with Korean, Taiwanese and other learners Native speakers without a certificate; 120 hours for everyone else; accepts South African and American applicants 25 minute classes, booked or on demand 430 coins, about US$9 (R149), per booked class; 192 coins, about US$4, per sudden lesson 6 Nov 2026
Cambly Adults worldwide, Korea among the larger markets Native English speaker, 18 or over, no certificate or degree On demand conversation, paid by the active minute US$10.20 an hour (about R169); Kids US$12; Pro US$15 6 Nov 2026
Preply and italki Adults worldwide; Korean learners find you by profile No certificate required; italki’s professional teacher tier asks for a qualification You set the lesson and the price Your rate minus commission: Preply 33 to 18 percent, italki 15 to 21 percent 6 Nov 2026

Two other names come up in forums, Tutoring Go and Skybel, but we could not confirm their current requirements on a page of their own on the day we checked, so they are not in the table. Treat any listing that promises a Korean rate above US$20 an hour with no interview as a reason to look harder.

What qualifications do Korean online platforms ask for?

Gamcheon Culture Village in Busan, South Korea, whose adult learners book English lessons online with native speaking tutors

Korean online platforms ask first for a native English speaker, second for a degree or a university background, and third for a teaching certificate, in that order of strictness. The native speaker rule is close to universal. Carrot Global’s listing says native English speaker and publishes separate rates for US, British, Canadian and South African nationals, which tells you South Africa is on its list. Ringle asks for native level English and then narrows the pool by university rather than by passport.

The degree rule is where the routes split. Carrot Global requires a university degree and teaching experience. Ringle does not ask for a TEFL certificate at all; its filter is the university you attend or attended, because its students are paying to practise with people from the institutions they admire. Cafetalk requires a teaching certificate for its English category and will not accept current students. NativeCamp waives the certificate for native speakers and asks for 120 hours from everyone else.

So where does a TEFL certificate fit? It is the qualification that clears Cafetalk, strengthens a Carrot Global application that already meets the degree rule, and raises your price on Preply and italki, where a Korean professional comparing twenty profiles will pick the one with a verifiable qualification and a business English specialism. A 120-hour TEFL certificate is the sensible floor. If your target is the corporate end, where Korean companies buy blocks of lessons for staff and pay for presentation and negotiation coaching, the Ofqual-regulated Level 5 TEFL Diploma is the certificate a training manager can check on a government register, and that is what they are paying for. The in-country rules are different and stricter, and our guide to the best TEFL certification for South Korea covers what EPIK and the hagwons accept.

How much can you earn teaching English online to Korean students?

You can earn between about US$9 and US$22 an hour on the platforms that publish a figure, and more than that only by setting your own price on a marketplace or finding your own clients. Ringle sits at the top of the published range at US$17 to US$22 an hour for 20 and 40 minute lessons. Carrot Global starts US and British nationals at US$11 to US$13 and South Africans at the rand equivalent of about R158 to R170 an hour, with reviews for raises. NativeCamp pays about US$9 for a booked 25 minute class, so a full hour of booked classes is about US$18 before gaps. Cambly pays US$10.20 an hour for the minutes you are actually talking.

The useful arithmetic is monthly. Fifteen hours a week at Carrot Global’s South African rate is roughly R10,000 a month before tax. The same hours at Ringle’s headline rate are about US$1,100 to US$1,430, or R18,200 to R23,600, which is why its university rule is so keenly felt by teachers who fall outside it. On Cafetalk, Preply and italki the ceiling is yours to set, and experienced tutors teaching Korean professionals in business English or speaking test preparation commonly charge US$25 to US$40 an hour, minus commission on the marketplaces and minus Cafetalk’s sliding fee. Those are tutor-set prices, not platform guarantees, and they take months of reviews to reach. Our Hire Wire tracks which platforms publish a rate and which do not, and only one in eight did when we last swept them.

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Getting started teaching English online: the beginner’s guide

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When do Korean students want lessons, and what does that mean in Johannesburg or Chicago?

Korean students want lessons before work and after dinner, which Carrot Global puts at 6 am to 10 am and 6 pm to midnight Korean time, Monday to Friday. Korea does not change its clocks, so the windows move with yours. In November, South Africa is seven hours behind Korea, which puts the morning block at 11 pm to 3 am and the evening block at 11 am to 5 pm South African time. The eastern United States is fourteen hours behind, so the same blocks land at 4 pm to 8 pm the previous afternoon and 4 am to 10 am. Central time shifts each by an hour, Pacific by three.

For a South African the practical slot is the Korean evening, which fills a weekday afternoon in Durban without touching the night. For an American on the east coast the Korean evening is early morning, which suits early risers and parents with school runs, and the Korean morning is a late afternoon block. Carrot Global wants 25 or more of your hours inside those windows and prefers teachers who can offer five days a week, which is a commitment rather than a side gig. Ringle lets you open a slot up to a couple of hours ahead with no minimum, so it absorbs odd hours well. Marketplace tutors set their own hours and simply find that Korean bookings cluster in the same two blocks.

What do Korean learners actually want from an online English lesson?

Anguk street in Seoul with traditional wooden buildings, in the city where most Korean adult learners book online English lessons after work

Korean adult learners want speaking confidence for work, and they want it measured. The adults on Ringle and Carrot Global are engineers, analysts, doctors and managers who read English well and speak it nervously, and a good lesson gives them a structured conversation, corrections they can see in writing, and a sense of progress. Ringle builds that in: the student picks a topic from a prepared packet, you discuss it, and you leave written feedback on vocabulary and structure afterwards.

Test preparation is the other big driver. Korean employers and universities lean on speaking assessments, and many adults book lessons specifically to lift a speaking score, which rewards a tutor who can run timed tasks and give precise feedback on fluency, range and accuracy rather than general encouragement. Younger learners, who you will meet on Ringle Teens, NativeCamp and the marketplaces, are usually sent by parents with a clear goal, often reading and discussion, and respond well to a tutor who is warm but keeps the pace up.

A few cultural notes save awkward first lessons. Korean students tend to be formal and polite at the start and may wait to be asked rather than interrupt, so plan more prompts than you think you need. Silence after a question is thinking, not confusion. Direct correction is expected and appreciated, provided it is calm and specific. And a student who books you three times a week will often want the same structure each time; consistency reads as professionalism. Our guide to how to teach English to adults covers the methods, and our ESL games for adults post has warm ups that work on a screen.

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Should you teach Korean students online or go and teach in Korea?

Teach online first if you want to test the market without a visa, and go to Korea if you want the salary, the housing and the year abroad, because the two tracks have different entry rules. Teaching in Korea on an E-2 visa requires a bachelor’s degree, a criminal record check, a health check and citizenship of one of seven countries, which include South Africa and the United States, and EPIK, the public school programme, adds a 100-hour TEFL requirement. None of that applies to teaching Korean students from your kitchen.

The money is different too. A first year EPIK or hagwon salary comes with housing and flights, and the hourly equivalent is well above anything online except Ringle. Online work wins on flexibility and on the fact that you can start next week. Many teachers do both in sequence: a year of online lessons with Korean adults, which doubles as evidence of experience, then an application to EPIK or a hagwon with a reference and a feel for the students. Our guide to teaching English in South Korea has the salary bands and the visa steps, our explainer on what EPIK is covers the public school route, and the best TEFL certification for Asia compares Korea with Japan, China and Vietnam if you have not settled on a country.

How do you get hired to teach Korean students online?

You get hired by passing a short live assessment, because every Korean platform in this guide tests you on a call rather than on your CV. Ringle’s process is an application that takes under ten minutes, a 20 minute mock session and a 40 minute orientation with a quiz. Carrot Global asks for a CV by email with your nationality, country of residence and the hours you can offer, followed by an interview. NativeCamp and Cafetalk review a profile and a video before activating you. Cambly wants a 30 second profile video that shows your full face in a quiet room.

Prepare for the call as you would a lesson. Have a two minute self introduction that mentions your qualification by name and number, a quiet background, a wired connection if the platform asks for one, and a short conversation activity ready in case the assessor plays a student. Say which Korean peak block you can cover. Once you are live, the first month decides your bookings on any platform where students choose by profile, so open generous availability, answer messages quickly and ask every satisfied student for a review. Our guide to getting hired to teach English online covers the demo lesson in detail, and our page on teaching English online has the equipment list.

Ready to get TEFL qualified for Korean students?

Start with a certificate that clears Cafetalk, strengthens a Carrot Global application and gives a Korean professional a reason to book you over the next profile. The TEFL Institute Group is Europe’s largest TEFL trainer by teachers certified, with 161,000 teachers certified since 2017 who have gone on to teach in 80 countries, and every certificate carries a number an employer can verify. If business English and speaking test coaching for Korean adults is where you want to end up, the Level 5 Diploma is the one to choose.

Get TEFL qualified to teach English online

Last updated: 6 November 2026. Platform requirements and pay figures are taken from each company’s own tutor page or listing on the dates shown, are approximate, and change without notice. Exchange rates move. Always confirm the current terms on the platform before you apply.

Jessica Jeffery, The TEFL Institute Group

Jessica Jeffery

Recruitment and Partnerships Specialist at The TEFL Institute Group. Jessica holds a business degree plus TEFL and CELTA, taught in Thailand and Italy, and helps students find high quality jobs and internships.

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]]> https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/teach-english-online-korean-students/feed/ 0 Best TEFL Certification for South Korea: What Employers Actually Accept https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/best-tefl-certification-for-south-korea/ https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/best-tefl-certification-for-south-korea/#respond Tue, 29 Sep 2026 20:08:28 +0000 https://teflinstitute.com/blog// What TEFL certification do you need for South Korea? EPIK requires a 100-hour accredited certificate and no longer hires without one, hagwons usually prefer one, and international schools want a teaching licence instead. A dated guide to what each employer accepts, what it pays, and when to start.

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]]> The best TEFL certification for South Korea is an accredited course of at least 100 hours, because that is the floor EPIK sets and the level most hagwons hire against. A longer Ofqual-regulated Level 5 diploma is not required, but it helps you clear EPIK’s Level 2 pay threshold and gives an employer something they can verify on a public register.

Key takeaways

  • 100 hours is the floor, not the target. EPIK’s published minimum is a 100-hour accredited TEFL, TESOL or CELTA certificate.
  • A degree alone no longer places you. EPIK’s Level 3 tier, which needs only a bachelor’s degree, is not currently being recruited by any provincial office of education.
  • The certificate is not a visa requirement. The E-2 visa turns on your citizenship, your degree and a clean apostilled criminal record check. TEFL is an employer requirement sitting on top of that.
  • Hagwons are looser than EPIK, not exempt from it. Most prefer a certificate; the better-paying academies increasingly ask for one outright.
  • International schools are a different market. They want a teaching licence and a relevant degree. No TEFL certificate substitutes for that.
  • Start the paperwork before the course. Apostilling a degree and a criminal record check commonly takes six to eight weeks, and it is the slowest step in the whole timeline.

What is the best TEFL certification for South Korea right now?

For the public school route, the honest answer is an accredited 100-hour course, because that is exactly what EPIK asks for and there is no additional credit for exceeding it at the entry tier. For everything else — hagwons that pay above the median, a second contract, or a move into a better-resourced school — a longer regulated qualification does more work, because it is the thing an employer can independently check.

The distinction that matters in Korea is not hours. It is whether the certificate is verifiable. Korean employers and immigration offices deal with a high volume of foreign paperwork and they lean heavily on documents that can be confirmed at source. A qualification that sits on a public regulator’s register answers that question without a phone call; an unregulated certificate does not.

Does EPIK require a TEFL certificate?

Yes, in practice, although the rule is written as a pay-tier condition rather than an absolute bar. EPIK’s published eligibility asks for a minimum of 100 training hours from an accredited TEFL, TESOL or CELTA provider, completed or in progress at the time of application.

The reason it functions as a hard requirement is the pay scale. A bachelor’s degree with no certificate places you at Level 3 — and no provincial or metropolitan office of education is currently hiring at Level 3 anywhere in the country. The 100-hour certificate is what lifts a first-time applicant to Level 2, which is the lowest tier actually being recruited. Our full guide to what EPIK is and how the programme works covers the pay tiers, allowances and application calendar in detail.

Who is exempt from EPIK’s TEFL requirement?

Three groups clear Level 2 without a TEFL certificate:

  • Holders of a recognised national teaching licence.
  • Holders of a B.Ed or M.Ed.
  • Graduates whose bachelor’s degree majored in Education, TESOL or Second Language Studies.

If none of those describes you, the certificate is the route. A degree in English literature or linguistics does not count — the major has to be in teaching or second-language acquisition specifically.

How does your qualification affect what EPIK pays?

Level What it requires Monthly pay (KRW) Currently recruited?
Level 3 Bachelor’s degree only 2.1M – 2.2M No — not hired by any office of education
Level 2 Bachelor’s + 100-hour TEFL/TESOL/CELTA, teaching licence, or education-related degree 2.2M – 2.3M Yes — the entry tier in practice
Level 2+ 1 year teaching experience plus a Level 2 requirement, or a relevant master’s 2.3M – 2.4M Yes
Level 1 2 years teaching experience plus a Level 2 requirement, or 1 year at Level 2+ 2.4M – 2.6M Yes
Level 1+ 2 consecutive years at Level 1 renewing in the same province 2.6M – 2.8M Yes, on renewal
S grade (Seoul, Chungbuk) Equivalent to Level 1+ up to 3.0M Yes, on renewal

Source: EPIK pay scale for the Fall 2026 intake, as published on epik.go.kr and broken down by province in Korvia Consulting’s scale, updated 4 May 2026. Seoul’s office uses letter grades (S, A, B, C, D, E) rather than numeric levels. Figures are base salary before allowances. Converted at roughly 1,540 KRW to the euro — the rate used across our Korea guides in 2026 — Level 2 is about €1,430 to €1,495 a month; check a live rate before budgeting.

Two things follow from that table. The jump from no certificate to a 100-hour certificate is the difference between not being hired and being hired. And the jumps above Level 2 are bought with experience, not with more study hours — so a 300-hour certificate does not pay more than a 120-hour one at the entry tier.

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The TEFL Institute

Best TEFL Certification for South Korea: What Employers Actually Accept

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Do hagwons require a TEFL certificate?

Usually they prefer one rather than demand it, but the gap is narrowing and it varies sharply by academy. A hagwon is a private business hiring on its own terms, so there is no published standard the way there is with EPIK. What is consistent is that the academies paying at the top of the range, and the chains with established recruitment processes, increasingly ask for a certificate — while the ones that do not ask tend to be the ones worth asking harder questions about.

The E-2 visa requirement applies either way. A hagwon can waive its own preference for a TEFL certificate; it cannot waive immigration’s requirement for a degree and a clean apostilled criminal record check.

What do the three routes into Korea actually require?

Route Minimum qualification Typical monthly pay (KRW) Teaching hours Paid vacation
EPIK (public school) Bachelor’s + 100-hour TEFL 2.2M – 2.8M 22 teaching hrs, 40 hrs on site ~26 days
Hagwon (private academy) Bachelor’s; TEFL usually preferred 2.1M – 3.0M ~30 teaching hrs, often evenings ~10–11 days
International school Teaching licence + relevant degree, often a master’s 4M – 9M+ Standard school day Full school breaks

Source: EPIK figures per epik.go.kr and Korvia Consulting’s Fall 2026 scale; hagwon and international school ranges are market ranges that vary by city, school size and experience, and should be treated as a starting point for negotiation rather than a guarantee. Last reviewed 29 September 2026.

Read across that table rather than down it. The headline hagwon salary can beat EPIK, particularly in Seoul — but EPIK’s package includes a settlement allowance, an entrance allowance, a contract completion bonus, severance and roughly two and a half times the vacation. International schools pay far more than either, and no TEFL certificate on its own opens that door.

Is an Ofqual-regulated Level 5 TEFL worth it for Korea?

It is not required, and it is worth being straight about that rather than selling upward. EPIK asks for 100 hours and a Level 5 diploma will not, by itself, place you above Level 2 on the pay scale — that takes classroom experience.

Where it earns its keep is verification and what comes after year one. An Ofqual-regulated qualification sits on a public register, which means a school, a recruiter or a visa office can look it up rather than take your word for it. That matters more in Korea than in most markets because of how document-heavy the hiring process is. It also travels: if Korea turns into a second contract elsewhere, or a move toward international schools, a regulated Level 5 is recognised in a way a generic certificate is not. Our guide to TEFL qualifications and terminology sets out how the levels compare.

Is a TEFL certificate part of the E-2 visa requirement?

No. The E-2 conversation instructor visa turns on three things: citizenship of one of the seven recognised countries (the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, South Africa, Australia or New Zealand), a completed bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in one of them, and a clean national-level criminal record check.

Both the degree and the criminal record check must be apostilled, and sealed transcripts usually have to come directly from your university. The TEFL certificate sits on top of that as an employer requirement, not an immigration one — which is why you can technically hold a visa-eligible profile and still be unhireable at the tier you want. Our guide to teaching English in South Korea walks through the full visa sequence and 2026 pay.

Can you teach in Korea without a degree?

Not on an E-2 visa. The degree is an immigration condition rather than a school preference, so no certificate substitutes for it and no employer can waive it. We cover the narrow exceptions, and what people usually mean when they ask this, in can I teach English in Korea without a degree?

When should you start your TEFL certificate and your paperwork?

EPIK runs two intakes a year — a spring intake starting in March, with applications opening the previous August, and a fall intake starting in August or September, with applications opening in February. Applications are reviewed in the order they arrive rather than all at once after a deadline, so cohorts can close early.

The bottleneck is almost never the course or the interview. It is the apostille process, which commonly runs six to eight weeks for a criminal record check and a degree. A workable rule: begin the certificate and the background check four to six months before you want to be in Korea, and closer to nine if you want a say in where you are placed.

Which certificate should you choose for Korea?

If the plan is EPIK and one year, an accredited 100-hour course does the job and nothing longer is required. If the plan is a hagwon in a city you have chosen, the same floor applies but a regulated qualification gives you more to negotiate with. If you expect to renew, move into a better school, or teach somewhere else afterwards, a regulated Level 5 diploma is the version that still means something in three years. Our comparison of TEFL certifications across Asia puts Korea alongside Japan, China, Thailand and Vietnam if you have not settled on a country yet.

Frequently asked questions

Does EPIK accept online TEFL courses?
Yes. EPIK’s published requirement is 100 accredited training hours and does not exclude online study. What matters is that the provider is accredited and the certificate is verifiable.

Is 120 hours better than 100 hours for Korea?
Not for EPIK’s pay scale — both clear the same Level 2 threshold. 120 hours is simply the more common market standard, so it gives you a wider range of employers outside the public system.

Do I need a TEFL certificate if I have a teaching licence?
No. A recognised teaching licence, a B.Ed or M.Ed, or a degree majoring in Education, TESOL or Second Language Studies all satisfy EPIK’s requirement on their own.

Does the TEFL certificate need to be finished before I apply?
No. EPIK accepts a certificate that is in progress at the time of application, provided it is completed before your contract begins.

Do hagwons check TEFL certificates?
The better ones do, and recruiters working with established academies generally verify them. Certificates that cannot be checked at source are the ones that cause problems at contract stage.

What is the minimum age or upper age limit for EPIK?
EPIK does not publish a single universal cutoff, but applies an upper limit broadly in line with Korea’s statutory retirement age. Confirm the current position with EPIK directly before committing to the process.

The bottom line

South Korea is one of the few markets where the qualification bar is written down rather than implied. EPIK asks for 100 accredited hours, will not currently hire anyone without them, and pays for experience rather than extra study hours above that floor. Hagwons sit slightly below that standard and international schools well above it. Choose the certificate that clears the bar for the route you actually want, make sure it is one an employer can verify, and start the apostilles earlier than feels necessary.

Last reviewed 29 September 2026. Pay figures and eligibility rules reflect the EPIK Fall 2026 intake as published on epik.go.kr and detailed by Korvia Consulting (updated 4 May 2026). Eligibility and pay tiers are set by each provincial office of education and can change between intakes — confirm current terms with EPIK or your recruiter before applying.

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]]> https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/best-tefl-certification-for-south-korea/feed/ 0 What Is EPIK? South Korea’s Public School Programme Explained https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/what-is-epik/ https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/what-is-epik/#respond Tue, 29 Sep 2026 19:48:37 +0000 https://teflinstitute.com/blog/what-is-epik/ What is EPIK? A complete 2026 guide to South Korea's public school English teaching programme, covering the real pay scale, eligibility rules, application timeline, and how it stacks up against hagwons and international schools.

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]]> So what is EPIK? EPIK, short for the English Program in Korea, is the South Korean government’s flagship scheme for placing native English speakers as English Language Assistants in public elementary, middle and high schools across the country. For how EPIK compares with hagwons, pay and the E-2 visa rules, see our guide to teaching English in South Korea. Run by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) under the Ministry of Education, it is the route thousands of TEFL-qualified teachers take every year to move to Korea with a structured contract, a set pay scale and a genuine government employer standing behind the paperwork.

If you have spent any time in TEFL Facebook groups or on r/teachinginkorea, you have probably seen EPIK mentioned in the same breath as “hagwon” and wondered which one you actually want. This guide walks through what EPIK is, who can apply, what it pays in 2026, how it compares with hagwons and international schools, and what the application calendar actually looks like month by month, so you can work out whether it is the right route into Korea for you.

What Is EPIK, Exactly?

EPIK was established in 1995 to place trained native English speakers into Korean public schools, working alongside a Korean co-teacher rather than solo in front of a class. The stated goals are threefold: improve English-speaking ability among Korean students and teachers, build cultural exchange between Korea and partner countries, and introduce new teaching methods into the public system. In practice, that means you are hired as what EPIK calls a Native English Assistant Teacher (sometimes shortened to NET), and you are placed at one or more public schools within a specific province or metropolitan office of education.

The programme is genuinely nationwide. Every one of Korea’s 17 provincial and metropolitan Offices of Education (often abbreviated POE or MOE) runs its own EPIK intake, sets its own pay tier within the national scale and manages its own placement process. Seoul’s office (SMOE) and Gyeonggi’s office (GEPIK) are the two best known because they cover the largest population centres, but rural provinces such as Gyeongbuk, Jeonbuk and Gangwon hire plenty of teachers too, often with a faster placement process and a lower cost of living once you arrive.

Because EPIK is a government programme rather than a private recruitment agency, your actual employer is the Office of Education, not EPIK itself. EPIK (via NIIED) recruits, screens and matches you; the province then issues the contract, pays your salary and provides your accommodation. This dual structure explains why pay scales, entrance allowances and bonuses vary slightly province by province even though the eligibility rules are set nationally.

Who Can Apply for EPIK in 2026?

EPIK’s eligibility rules have stayed fairly stable for years, and they are worth reading closely before you invest time in a TEFL certificate or start apostilling documents.

  • Citizenship: you must hold citizenship of one of seven recognised native English-speaking countries: the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, South Africa, Australia or New Zealand.
  • Education: a completed bachelor’s degree (three or four years) in any subject from an accredited university in one of those seven countries. Higher, National or Advanced Diplomas do not qualify on their own. Final-year students can apply if they can supply proof of expected graduation and their actual degree before arrival.
  • TEFL certification: a minimum of 100 training hours from an accredited TEFL, TESOL or CELTA provider, completed or in progress at the time of application. You are exempt if you hold a recognised teaching licence, a B.Ed or M.Ed, or a degree that majored in Education, TESOL or Second Language Studies.
  • Criminal record: a completely clean national-level criminal record check. Both misdemeanours and felonies disqualify an applicant; ordinary traffic violations typically do not appear on a standard check.
  • Health: good physical and mental health, confirmed through a self-reported medical survey before departure and a full physical exam after arrival in Korea.
  • Age: EPIK does not publish one universal age cutoff on its official eligibility page, but it applies an upper limit in line with Korea’s statutory retirement age, commonly cited as 62. Always confirm the current cutoff with EPIK or a recruiter before you commit to the process.

A few groups have extra requirements worth flagging. Ethnic Korean applicants who hold foreign citizenship, along with Canadian applicants from Quebec and South African applicants, generally need to prove their schooling from grade 7 onward was conducted in English. Indian citizens can apply under the Korea-India CEPA agreement if they hold a valid teaching certificate in English education, though those applications must go directly through EPIK rather than a recruiting agency. If you are unsure which category applies to you, it is worth an honest email to EPIK or your recruiter before you start gathering documents.

EPIK Pay Scale 2026: What You Actually Earn

EPIK salaries are set by each provincial Office of Education, not by NIIED centrally, which is why the exact figure you are offered depends on where you are placed as much as on your qualifications. As of September 2026, the tiers actually being recruited run from 2.2 million to 2.8 million KRW per month, with a couple of regions offering higher top tiers for teachers who renew multiple contracts. A Level 3 tier of 2.1 million exists on the published scale but is not currently being filled by any office of education, which is why the practical floor is 2.2 million.

EPIK against other programmes: see how EPIK pay and benefits compare with JET in Japan and the NET Scheme in Hong Kong in our TEFL Salary Index.

One important update for anyone applying now: most Offices of Education are not currently hiring at the entry Level 3 tier, so in practice you need to qualify for at least Level 2 before your final contract is signed. A plain bachelor’s degree with no TEFL certificate and no teaching-related major will not clear that bar on its own; the 100-hour TEFL certificate is what gets most first-time applicants over the Level 2 threshold.

Level Typical requirement Monthly pay (KRW) Approx. monthly pay (EUR)
Level 3 Bachelor’s degree only (not currently being hired by any office of education) 2.1M to 2.2M €1,365 to 1,430
Level 2 Bachelor’s degree + 100-hour TEFL/TESOL/CELTA, teaching licence, or education-related degree 2.2M to 2.35M €1,430 to 1,530
Level 2+ 1 year full-time teaching experience, or a relevant Master’s degree 2.3M to 2.4M €1,495 to 1,560
Level 1 2 years full-time teaching experience plus a Level 2 requirement 2.4M to 2.6M €1,560 to 1,690
Level 1+ 2 consecutive years as Level 1 while renewing in the same province 2.5M to 2.8M €1,625 to 1,820
Top tiers (Seoul S grade, Chungbuk S+) Multiple years of renewal within the same province up to 3.0M up to €1,950

Methodology note: figures reflect the EPIK pay scale as published for the 2026–27 intakes, with the recruited floor corrected to 2.2 million KRW in line with our own Hire Wire correction of 17 September 2026 (epik.go.kr) and Korvia Consulting’s 2026 breakdown by province. KRW to EUR conversion uses an approximate mid-2026 rate of 1 EUR = 1,540 KRW; your actual take-home will vary with exchange rates and your country’s tax treaty with Korea.

On top of the base salary, every EPIK teacher’s first contract includes a one-off settlement allowance of 300,000 KRW paid within the first month, an entrance allowance of 1.3 to 1.8 million KRW (paid at the end of month one in most provinces, or after six months in Busan, Daegu, Jeju, Incheon and Chungbuk), and a contract completion bonus of 1.3 to 1.8 million KRW at the end of the year, equivalent to roughly one month’s pay once you add statutory severance. If you renew for a second year, you also receive a renewal bonus of 700,000 KRW in most provinces, rising to 2 million KRW in Gyeonggi. Housing is provided in the form of a furnished apartment or studio, though you cover your own utilities, and your employer pays half of your national medical insurance premium.

EPIK vs Hagwon vs International School: The Master Comparison

This is usually the real question behind the programme’s popularity: how does EPIK stack up against the other two common routes into teaching English in Korea? Here is how the three compare on the things that actually affect your year.

Factor EPIK (public school) Hagwon (private academy) International school
Employer Provincial/metropolitan Office of Education (government) Privately owned academy or chain Privately run accredited school
Typical monthly pay 2.2M to 2.8M KRW (€1,430 to €1,820) 2.1M to 3.0M KRW (€1,365 to €1,950) 4M to 9M+ KRW (€2,600 to €5,850+)
Minimum qualification Bachelor’s + 100hr TEFL Bachelor’s, TEFL often preferred not required Teaching licence + relevant degree, often a Master’s
Contract hours 22 teaching hours/week, 40 hours on-site ~30 teaching hours/week, often evenings Standard school-day hours, similar to home-country teaching
Paid vacation ~26 days (tied to school breaks) ~10 to 11 days Full summer/winter breaks, similar to Western school calendars
Housing Provided (utilities extra) Usually provided or allowance given Usually provided or generous allowance
Hiring speed Slow, structured (4 to 7 months) Fast (4 to 8 weeks), year-round Slow, competitive, often requires an in-person or video interview cycle
Job security High, standardised government contract Variable, depends heavily on the individual academy High if hired, but far fewer positions available
Best suited to First-time TEFL teachers wanting structure and co-teaching support Teachers who want to choose their city and start quickly Licensed, experienced teachers building an international career

Methodology note: EPIK figures per epik.go.kr and Korvia Consulting’s 2026 pay scale breakdown; hagwon and international school ranges cross-checked against Korvia’s hagwon salary data, ESL Careers, and public international school pay scales (Korea International School, cited via SchoolTransparency’s 2026 report). Ranges will vary by city, school size and your individual experience; treat them as a starting point for negotiation, not a guarantee.

The honest takeaway is that hagwons can edge out EPIK on the headline base salary, especially in Seoul, but EPIK usually wins once you add up the full package: the settlement allowance, entrance allowance, completion bonus, severance and, above all, the vacation time. Twenty-six paid days plus national holidays is a genuinely different lifestyle from the ten or eleven days most hagwons offer. International schools pay considerably more than either, but they are a smaller, more competitive market that generally wants a teaching licence and classroom experience, not a first TEFL certificate.

Academic

The TEFL Institute

What Is EPIK? South Korea’s Public School Programme Explained

teflinstitute.comWatch on YouTube · The TEFL Institute Group

What Is EPIK Actually Like Day to Day?

EPIK teachers are contracted for 22 teaching hours a week, with the rest of a standard 40-hour week spent on lesson planning, co-teaching preparation, school events and “desk warming” during holiday periods when classes are not running but you are still required on site. You will almost always be paired with a Korean co-teacher, which is a genuine advantage if you are new to teaching: you are rarely, if ever, left to manage a class of 30 children alone with no support on classroom Korean or discipline norms.

Placement is based on availability rather than personal preference, though you can list a preferred province or city type (metropolitan, small city, rural) on your application. Seoul and Gyeonggi are consistently the most requested and the most competitive, so if flexibility matters more to you than location, saying so honestly on your application tends to speed things up.

Life outside the classroom varies enormously by placement. A teacher in central Seoul will have an entirely different experience from one in a small town in Jeollanam-do, and both experiences show up constantly in TEFL forums and vlogs, usually with the same message: rural placements often mean smaller class sizes, a slower pace, and significant savings, while city placements mean better transport links, more expat community and higher living costs. Neither is objectively better; it depends what kind of year you are looking for.

EPIK Application Timeline: Spring vs Fall Intake

EPIK runs two intakes every year, and the timing catches a lot of first-time applicants off guard because the process takes far longer than most people expect.

Stage Spring intake (March start) Fall intake (August/September start)
Applications open 1 August (previous year) 1 February (same year)
Applications typically close Around October/November, rolling until filled Around April/May, rolling until filled
Interviews September to January March to June
Document submission and visa processing December to February June to July
Arrival in Korea Late February Mid to late August

Methodology note: dates compiled from epik.go.kr application notices and Korvia Consulting’s published 2026 timelines. EPIK’s initial application window is not a hard deadline; positions are reviewed and filled in the order applications are submitted, so cohorts can close earlier than the dates listed if enough qualified applicants apply.

Where the cycle stands right now. Applications for the Spring 2027 intake opened on 1 August 2026 and are being processed on a rolling basis, so the practical advice below applies to that cohort today. The Fall 2027 window is expected to open on 1 February 2027. Because places are filled in submission order rather than after a fixed closing date, applying early in a window matters more than hitting a deadline.

Because applications are processed in order of submission rather than all at once after a fixed deadline, applying as early as the window opens is the single biggest thing you can do to improve your odds of a good placement. The genuine bottleneck for most applicants is not the online form itself but document processing: your criminal record check and degree both need to be apostilled, and that process alone commonly takes six to eight weeks. A realistic rule of thumb is to start your TEFL certificate and your background check paperwork at least four to six months before you want to be in Korea, and ideally closer to nine.

You can apply directly through epik.go.kr or through an approved recruiting partner such as Korvia Consulting, Reach to Teach or Adventure Teaching. Recruiters pre-screen your application at no cost to you and can catch document errors before EPIK ever sees them, which is genuinely useful if this is your first time navigating apostilles and sealed transcripts. Either route leads to the same contract and the same Office of Education; the recruiter simply adds a layer of support (and, in fairness, a layer of email chasing) along the way.

Required Documents at a Glance

The paperwork is, without exaggeration, the part of EPIK that trips people up more than the interview does. Two letters of recommendation are needed early, written on official letterhead, dated within the last two years, and ink-signed; digital signatures are not accepted. A detailed 45-minute lesson plan and a personal essay covering your motivation for teaching and for choosing Korea specifically are also required at the initial application stage.

Once you pass the interview, the heavier documents follow: an apostilled criminal record check dated within six months of your contract start, an apostilled copy of your degree, sealed university transcripts sent directly from your institution, and your TEFL certificate if your degree was not education-focused. A full medical exam happens only after you arrive in Korea, so you do not need to worry about that part until your flight is booked. If you take one thing from this section, make it this: start the apostille process the moment your initial application is accepted, not when you are asked for the final documents. It is consistently the slowest step in the entire timeline.

Is EPIK Worth It in 2026?

For a first TEFL job, EPIK remains one of the best-structured options available anywhere in the world. You get a fixed, published pay scale rather than a negotiated private-sector wage, a genuine government employer, a Korean co-teacher for support, free housing, roughly 26 vacation days, and a clear bonus structure that rewards completing (and renewing) your contract. The trade-off is a slower application process and less control over exactly where you are placed, which suits some personalities far better than others.

If city choice matters more to you than the safety net of a government contract, a hagwon might suit you better, particularly if you already know Korea and want to hit the ground running in a specific neighbourhood. If you already hold a teaching licence and a few years of classroom experience, it is worth exploring international schools, where the pay gap over EPIK is substantial. But for the classic TEFL story, qualified graduate, first overseas contract, wants structure and support in year one, EPIK remains the benchmark against which every other Korea route gets measured.

If Korea sounds like the right move but you are still deciding between the public-school and private-academy route, our comparison of which cities pay the most in South Korea for TEFL teachers breaks the city-by-city numbers down further, and our wider look at TEFL in Japan vs South Korea is worth reading if you have not fully committed to Korea over its regional neighbour yet. Whichever route you choose, the 100-hour TEFL requirement is non-negotiable for EPIK, and our guide to the best TEFL certification for South Korea sets out what public schools, hagwons and international schools each accept. It is worth comparing options like our Ofqual-regulated Level 5 TEFL Diploma or the full TEFL course overview before you start your application, since a Level 5 qualification also helps you clear EPIK’s Level 2 pay threshold faster than the minimum 100-hour certificate alone.

The Bottom Line

So, what is EPIK, in one line? It is South Korea’s government-run public school English teaching programme, offering a standardised salary, free housing, real vacation time and a Korean co-teacher, in exchange for a slower, more paperwork-heavy application process than a hagwon. For most first-time TEFL teachers weighing up Korea, it is still the safest, most transparent place to start, and the pay scale, allowances and bonuses above give you a realistic picture of what a real contract actually looks like before you apply.

Last reviewed 29 September 2026. Pay tiers and eligibility rules are set by each provincial office of education and change between intakes, so confirm current terms with EPIK or your recruiter before applying.

The post What Is EPIK? South Korea’s Public School Programme Explained appeared first on TEFL Institute.

]]> https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/what-is-epik/feed/ 0 Can I Teach English in Korea Without a Degree? https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/can-i-teach-english-in-korea-without-a-degree/ https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/can-i-teach-english-in-korea-without-a-degree/#respond Sun, 30 Aug 2026 06:11:05 +0000 https://teflinstitute.com/blog// South Korea's E-2 teaching visa requires a completed bachelor's degree, and there is no experience based waiver. The only lawful routes without one are residency based. Here is the honest position, with the government source beside each claim.

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]]> Can I Teach English in Korea Without a Degree?

No. South Korea’s E-2 foreign language instructor visa requires a completed bachelor’s degree, so you cannot teach English in Korea without a degree on that route. For the full rules, pay and benefits, see our guide to teaching English in South Korea. The only lawful alternatives are residency based rather than qualification based: F-4, F-6, F-2 and F-5 holders may already work without an E-2. Teaching on a tourist visa is illegal.

Key takeaways

  • The E-2 visa is the standard route into a Korean classroom, and it is built around a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. There is no experience based waiver and no portfolio route.
  • An associate degree does not satisfy the requirement. The English Program in Korea (EPIK), run under the Ministry of Education, states this in plain terms on its eligibility page.
  • Every genuine no degree route is a residency status you already hold or become eligible for: F-4 for overseas Koreans, F-6 for spouses of Korean nationals, F-2 for long term residents and F-5 for permanent residents.
  • Korea Immigration lists the statuses that allow employment. Tourist and visa exempt statuses are not among them, and working on one is an immigration offence.
  • A TEFL qualification strengthens an E-2 application and is often required alongside a degree. It does not replace the degree, and no training provider can make it do so.
  • If Korea is closed to you, the sensible next step is to compare countries by their actual visa rules rather than by marketing copy.

This question gets asked constantly and usually gets answered badly. Plenty of pages promise a workaround, a loophole, or a school that “does not check”. There is no loophole, and the schools that do not check are the ones to be most wary of. Korea runs one of the tightest teaching visa regimes in Asia, and the rules are published by the government rather than left to interpretation.

What follows is the honest version, with the official source next to each claim. If Korea turns out not to be viable for you, our complete guide to teaching English abroad without a degree, with country by country requirements sets out where the door is genuinely open.

What does the E-2 visa actually require?

Before the degree question, there is a nationality question, and it rules more people out than the degree does. The E-2 is restricted to citizens of seven countries: Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States and South Africa. If you hold one of those passports you have cleared the hardest filter in the industry, and our guide to teaching English abroad from Canada sets out what EPIK asks for after that, including the six-week certificate deadline that catches people out.

Teach English in Korea without a degree: rolled degree certificate on a desk beside books

The E-2 is the status of sojourn for foreign language instructors, and it is the visa almost every English teacher in Korea holds. The Korea Visa Portal, operated by the Ministry of Justice, lists three sub codes under it: E-2-1 for a general foreign language instructor, E-2-2 for a teaching assistant, and E-2-91 for a foreign language instructor admitted under a free trade agreement.

The clearest published statement of what an applicant needs comes from EPIK’s eligibility page. EPIK is the government run public school programme, so its criteria track the visa criteria closely. It requires citizenship of Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States or South Africa, and a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in one of those designated countries. Indian citizens are eligible separately under the Korea India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement if they hold a valid teaching certificate in English education, which is what the E-2-91 sub code exists for.

Two points deserve precision. The citizenship list and the degree country list are the same list, so a bachelor’s earned elsewhere will usually not be accepted even from a citizen of one of the seven countries. And Korea Immigration does not publish the full E-2 qualification criteria in English on HiKorea, so definitive confirmation for your own case comes from the Korean embassy or consulate that will issue your visa.

Does the subject of your degree matter?

Not for the visa itself. A bachelor’s in geology, music or accountancy satisfies the requirement in the same way a degree in English does. What the subject affects is whether you also need a TEFL certificate. EPIK requires a TEFL, TESOL or CELTA certificate of at least 100 hours from an accredited programme unless you hold a teaching licence, a B.Ed, an M.Ed or an education focused major. Hagwons, the private academies, set their own preferences, but they are recruiting into the same E-2 status, so the visa criteria are the floor either way.

Do associate degrees or three year degrees count?

An associate degree does not. EPIK states directly that it does not satisfy the requirement, and since the E-2 itself is built on a bachelor’s degree, no employer can work around that. A three year bachelor’s degree from Ireland, the UK, Australia or South Africa is a different matter: it is a full bachelor’s degree, and length is not the test. What matters is that the qualification is a conferred bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, evidenced by a notarised or authenticated degree certificate carrying an apostille, plus sealed transcripts, as set out on EPIK’s required documents page.

Higher national diplomas, foundation degrees and partial study without conferral do not meet the standard. If the transcript does not end in a conferred degree, the application does not proceed.

Which routes let you teach in Korea without a degree?

All of them are about who you are or where you already live, not about what you can do in a classroom. HiKorea’s guidance on foreigners’ stay lists the statuses that permit employment activity: short term employment (C-4), the E-1 to E-10 employment statuses, residency (F-2), overseas Koreans (F-4), permanent residency (F-5) and working holiday (H-1). It adds that employment may still be restricted depending on the status held.

Route Degree required? Who it realistically suits Official source
E-2 foreign language instructor Yes, a conferred bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in one of the seven designated countries Graduates who are citizens of Ireland, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the US or South Africa EPIK, Ministry of Education
F-4 overseas Korean No People of Korean heritage who qualify as overseas Koreans, including descendants of former Korean nationals HiKorea, Korea Immigration Service
F-6 marriage migrant No Spouses of Korean nationals already living in Korea, and those raising a Korean national child EPIK, Ministry of Education
F-2 residence No, though the points based path to F-2 rewards education heavily Long term residents already in Korea on another status, and certain family members of Korean nationals HiKorea, Korea Immigration Service
F-5 permanent residence No People who have already built several years of qualifying residence in Korea HiKorea, Korea Immigration Service
H-1 working holiday No for the visa itself, but it carries no E-2 teaching rights and we could not verify that conversation instruction is permitted on it Young travellers from agreement countries who want casual work, not a teaching career HiKorea, Korea Immigration Service
D-2 student, part time work permission No, but you must be enrolled and hold prior permission Degree students in Korea who need part time income, not people seeking a teaching post Study in Korea, NIIED
Tourist or visa exempt entry Not applicable, working on it is unlawful Nobody. Working on a tourist status is an immigration offence HiKorea, Korea Immigration Service

Can F-4 overseas Korean status let you teach without a degree?

Yes, in the sense that F-4 holders are not tied to the E-2 rules at all. HiKorea lists overseas Koreans (F-4) among the statuses that permit employment activity, and EPIK confirms the practical consequence: its eligibility page notes that you cannot work in Korea without the E-2 visa, “excluding F4, F6 or Korean passport holders”. If you hold F-4, the degree question changes from a visa question into a hiring question.

F-4 is a heritage status rather than a qualification. The Korea Visa Portal lists a long set of sub codes for it, including overseas Koreans and their descendants, former D or E visa holders, permanent residents of OECD countries and people aged 60 or over. Eligibility depends on your family’s Korean nationality history, which is a matter for a Korean consulate to assess rather than something you can self certify.

Be clear about what F-4 does not do. It removes the visa barrier, not the market barrier. Public school programmes and better hagwons still prefer graduates, so a teacher without a degree competes against a large pool of degree holders in the same city.

Does an F-6 marriage visa allow you to teach English in Korea?

Yes. F-6 covers the spouse of a Korean national and those raising a Korean national child, per the sub codes F-6-1 and F-6-2 on the Korea Visa Portal. EPIK’s eligibility page again confirms that F-6 holders do not need an E-2 to work.

The obvious limitation is that F-6 is not a route anyone can choose. It follows a marriage, it is assessed on the genuineness of that relationship, and immigration scrutinises it closely. If you already hold it, though, it opens hagwon and private institute work that an E-2 would never permit, because F-6 is a family status rather than a job specific one.

What about the F-2 residence visa?

F-2 residency appears on HiKorea’s list of statuses that allow employment, and it is not conditioned on a teaching qualification. It covers several groups, including underage children of Korean nationals (F-2-2) and spouses of permanent residents (F-2-3), alongside the better known points based route for long term residents.

The catch is that F-2 is almost always a second status. You reach it after time in Korea on something else, whether that is study, work or family life, so it is not a visa you apply for from Dublin or Sydney with no Korean connection. The points based path is scored against criteria that immigration publishes and updates, covering factors such as age, income, education and Korean language ability, so check the current scoring directly rather than relying on any summary, this one included.

Does F-5 permanent residence remove the degree requirement?

It does, and it is listed on HiKorea among the statuses permitting employment. F-5 holders work in Korea more or less as a Korean national would, so no E-2 and no degree test applies.

It is also the least useful answer to the question, because F-5 is the end of a long residence pathway rather than an entry point. If you are reading this because you want to move to Korea next year without a degree, F-5 is not your route.

Academic

The TEFL Institute

Can I Teach English in Korea Without a Degree?

teflinstitute.comWatch on YouTube · The TEFL Institute Group

Can you teach on an H-1 working holiday visa?

Treat this as a no unless immigration tells you otherwise in writing. HiKorea does list working holiday (H-1) among the statuses that permit employment activity, but the same page adds that employment may be restricted depending on status, and working holiday agreements are built around casual work rather than a regulated profession.

Conversation instruction in Korea is a regulated activity with its own status of sojourn and its own qualification criteria, including a criminal record check and a health statement. That is the kind of occupation working holiday schemes are designed to exclude. We could not locate an official English page from Korea Immigration or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stating in terms whether English conversation instruction is permitted on H-1, so treat it as unverified and put the question to the Korean embassy handling your application before accepting any teaching work.

What is certain is the consequence of getting it wrong. HiKorea’s guidance on activities not covered by the status of sojourn is unambiguous: permission comes before the activity, not after.

Does a D-2 student visa let you teach part time?

A D-2 student visa allows part time work with prior permission, but the permitted fields published by the government do not include English teaching. The Study in Korea portal, run by NIIED under the Ministry of Education, describes part time work for students as “typically limited to simple labour tasks commonly performed by students” and gives examples such as assisting in restaurants, general office assistance, tourism guidance assistance and duty free shop sales assistance.

The hour caps are published on the same page. Undergraduates are limited to 30 hours per week and graduate students to 35 hours, with the cap lifted at weekends and during vacations. Eligibility is tied to Korean language ability: TOPIK level 3 for associate and bachelor’s students in their first two years, level 4 for third and fourth year undergraduates and graduate students, and level 2 with six months of study for those in language programmes.

Students must also obtain part time employment permission from their local immigration office first, which HiKorea illustrates with the example of “a foreign student status (D-2) holder seeking a part-time job (S-3)”. Since English conversation instruction is not among the published permitted fields, treat teaching on a D-2 as not permitted unless your immigration office grants it explicitly. That point is unverified either way, and the immigration office, not the school, is the one to ask.

What about E-7 and other routes people cite?

E-7 is a special occupation status for skilled professionals recruited into designated job codes, and it is not a workaround for the English classroom. Applicants are assessed against the requirements of the specific occupation code, which typically means a relevant degree or substantial documented professional experience.

Two other things get repeated online and are worth correcting. The first is the idea that a “TEFL only” school will sponsor you. Sponsorship is not something a school can grant. Immigration issues the status, and the school simply files paperwork. The second is the suggestion that you can arrive on a tourist status and change to E-2 once you have found a job. HiKorea’s guidance on change of status of stay states the general rule plainly: “foreigners seeking to participate in activities not permitted under their current status must first depart from Korea, obtain a new status that corresponds with the desired status, then re-enter Korea with the newly obtained status”. Limited in country changes exist, but they are exceptions granted after examination, not a default.

What happens if you teach in Korea without the right visa?

Teach English in Korea without a degree: visa application form being stamped at an immigration desk

You become an immigration offender, which is a defined legal category rather than a figure of speech. HiKorea defines the term as “a person deemed to have committed any of the offences prescribed in Articles 93-2, 93-3, 94 through 99, 99-2, 99-3 and 100 of the Immigration Act”, and sets out an investigation process running from acknowledgement through investigation and examination to an adjudication decision.

The possible outcomes are listed on HiKorea’s page on decisions concerning immigration offenders: deportation, a departure order, a recommendation for departure, a disposition of notice carrying penalties, and an administrative fine. Deportation is described there as “the strongest type of administrative measure for offending foreigners of the immigration act”, and it removes you from Korea regardless of your wishes, with only seven days to file a written objection. The specific fine amounts sit in the Immigration Act rather than on HiKorea’s English pages, so we are not going to quote a figure we cannot source.

The practical damage runs further than the penalty. A deportation and an entry ban follow you, and they surface the next time you apply for a visa anywhere that asks about immigration history. Employers who hire outside the rules also tend to cut corners on contracts, housing and severance, so the person taking the risk is the one with the least protection.

One related rule catches even legitimate E-2 teachers out. If you want to add or change a workplace you need permission from immigration in advance, and HiKorea’s guidance on change or addition of workplace states that “adding more than two workplaces beside the main workplace is prohibited”. Private tutoring on the side, without permission, is the single most common way an otherwise lawful teacher ends up in trouble.

What does an E-2 job actually pay, for context?

Knowing what the regulated route pays explains why Korea can afford to be strict. EPIK’s published pay scale runs from 2.1 million to 3.0 million Korean won a month, roughly 1,300 to 1,860 euro, by level, province and experience, plus a 300,000 won settlement allowance, about 185 euro, an entrance allowance and a completion bonus each worth 1.3 to 1.8 million won, roughly 805 to 1,115 euro, severance of around one month’s salary, employer provided housing and half the medical insurance premium. Euro figures use the European Central Bank reference rate of 1,614.39 won to the euro on 26 August 2026, so treat them as approximate.

Does a TEFL qualification change any of this?

It changes your competitiveness, not your eligibility. A TEFL, TESOL or CELTA certificate of at least 100 hours is required for EPIK applicants who do not hold a teaching licence or an education degree, so for most graduates it is not optional. It also does real work in the classroom, since a first lesson with 30 to 40 children is not something you improvise your way through.

What it cannot do is stand in for a bachelor’s degree at a Korean consulate. Any provider suggesting otherwise is either confused or selling. At The TEFL Institute Group we would rather tell you Korea is closed than sell you a course on a false premise, and if your circumstances change, an Ofqual regulated Level 5 TEFL Diploma is the qualification that travels furthest.

If Korea is closed to you, what should you look at instead?

Several countries in Asia and Latin America set their teaching visa rules around a certificate and demonstrated ability rather than a degree, and a few in Europe run cultural exchange or assistant schemes with different criteria again. Rather than guess, work country by country from the guide linked near the top of this article, which separates where a degree is genuinely not required from where the claim is marketing.

If Korea remains the goal and the degree is the only missing piece, the honest plan has two steps. Complete a bachelor’s degree, in any subject, from an accredited university in one of the seven designated countries, then pair it with an accredited TEFL certificate of 100 hours or more. It is slower than most people want, and it is the plan that ends with you standing in a Korean classroom lawfully.

Where to start

Confirm your own position with the Korean embassy or consulate that would issue your visa, because theirs is the only binding answer. If the E-2 route is open to you, browse the accredited TEFL courses from The TEFL Institute Group and pick the level that matches where you want to teach.

The post Can I Teach English in Korea Without a Degree? appeared first on TEFL Institute.

]]> https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/can-i-teach-english-in-korea-without-a-degree/feed/ 0 25 Fun Facts About South Korea Every English Teacher Should Know https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/25-fun-facts-about-south-korea-every-english-teacher-should-know/ https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/25-fun-facts-about-south-korea-every-english-teacher-should-know/#respond Thu, 16 Jul 2026 14:33:54 +0000 https://teflinstitute.com/blog// South Korea is a country where palace traditions, cutting-edge technology, strong classroom culture and everyday routines all sit side by side. For teachers planning a move to Korea or building global lessons, these facts offer a practical and engaging introduction to the people, language and daily life that shape modern South Korea. Dive into our […]

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South Korea is a country where palace traditions, cutting-edge technology, strong classroom culture and everyday routines all sit side by side. For teachers planning a move to Korea or building global lessons, these facts offer a practical and engaging introduction to the people, language and daily life that shape modern South Korea. Dive into our blog to learn some fun facts about South Korea.

Introduction

When people search for fun facts about South Korea, they often expect a short list about K-pop, kimchi or fast internet. While those topics matter, they only reveal part of the story. South Korea is equally shaped by respect for age, a carefully structured language, intense commitment to education, strong local traditions and a modern urban culture that moves at remarkable speed.

For TEFL teachers, this matters because understanding the social context behind the classroom helps you teach more effectively. A lesson on food becomes more meaningful when you understand why meals are often shared. A language warm-up becomes richer when you know that politeness levels affect everyday speech. Even a simple discussion about school life becomes more insightful when students can compare local expectations with those in other parts of the world.

This article brings together 25 fascinating South Korea fun facts across culture, language, daily life and education. It is written for readers who want useful detail rather than tourist clichés, and it is especially suitable for anyone planning to teach in Korea, support learners heading abroad, or create thoughtful classroom materials about East Asia.

Culture Facts About South Korea

South Korean culture combines old values and rapid modernisation in ways that can surprise first-time visitors. The country is highly connected and future-facing, yet many social habits are still shaped by hierarchy, courtesy and collective responsibility.

  1. Age often shapes social interaction.
    In South Korea, age is more than a number. It can affect how people introduce themselves, how they speak to each other, and even how quickly they move from formal conversation to a relaxed tone.
  2. Respect is shown through behaviour as much as words.
    A slight bow, receiving something with two hands, and speaking carefully in formal settings are all everyday signs of politeness.
  3. Hierarchy is still socially visible.
    In schools, families and workplaces, seniority often influences decision-making. That does not mean every interaction is rigid, but it does mean people usually pay attention to status and roles.
  4. Confucian influence remains strong.
    Many social expectations, including respect for parents, elders and teachers, reflect ideas historically associated with Confucian values.
  5. Collective harmony is often valued over individual display.
    In many settings, it is considered more appropriate to support the group than to draw too much attention to oneself.
  6. Education carries real social weight.
    Academic achievement is taken seriously by many families, and school life can strongly shape daily schedules and future plans.
  7. Major holidays bring tradition to the centre of family life.
    Seollal, the Lunar New Year, and Chuseok, the autumn harvest holiday, are two of the most important celebrations. Travel, family gatherings and traditional food all play major roles.
  8. Gift-giving etiquette matters.
    Small gifts are common in social and professional settings, and presentation is often part of the gesture.
  9. Beauty and presentation are culturally significant.
    Personal appearance often receives careful attention, especially in cities, and neat presentation can be associated with professionalism and self-respect.
  10. South Korea has a strong global cultural presence.
    Music, television, film, skincare, fashion and food have all helped shape the Korean Wave, making South Korean culture instantly recognisable well beyond Asia.
For classroom use, these culture facts work well as discussion prompts. Ask learners which social customs in South Korea feel similar to their own country, and which feel noticeably different.
SouthKorea_Featured

Language and Writing: Understanding Hangul

One of the most interesting facts about South Korea is that its writing system is often admired for both clarity and design. Korean uses Hangul, which was created in the fifteenth century and is widely praised for being logical and learnable.

The Korean language also includes multiple politeness levels, and choices in grammar can reflect status, familiarity and formality in a conversation.[page:1]

  1. Hangul was intentionally created to improve literacy.
    Rather than growing slowly over centuries in an unplanned way, Hangul was designed as a practical writing system for Korean speakers.[page:1]
  2. Hangul is phonetic.
    Its letters represent sounds, which makes decoding words more manageable for beginners than many people expect.
  3. Letters are grouped into syllable blocks.
    Instead of writing in a long horizontal string of letters like English, Korean combines characters into block-like units.
  4. Many learners can read basic Hangul quickly.
    Fluency still takes time, but recognising the script can come surprisingly fast with guided practice.
  5. Politeness levels are built into speech.
    Korean includes different speech levels, and speakers choose them according to relative status, intimacy and the formality of the situation.[page:1]
  6. Age and rank influence language choices.
    Korean speakers often need to know whether someone is older, younger or of similar status in order to choose the most suitable level of speech.[page:1]
  7. Two higher speech levels are often safest for learners.
    Foreign learners are commonly advised to stay with more polite forms until they fully understand context and relationships.[page:1]
  8. Korean has many loanwords.
    English words appear in modern Korean, often adapted to fit Korean pronunciation.

For teachers, Hangul can become an excellent entry point into a wider lesson on writing systems. Pupils often enjoy comparing alphabets, sound-symbol relationships and the visual structure of scripts from different parts of the world.

Daily Life and Food in South Korea

Daily life in South Korea can feel fast, efficient and highly connected, particularly in major cities. At the same time, everyday routines still reflect social customs that place real value on community, shared experiences and respect.

  1. Public transport is a major part of city life.
    Many residents rely on trains, buses and underground systems for daily movement, which helps make urban life highly organised and accessible.
  2. Convenience stores are more useful than many visitors expect.
    They are not simply places for snacks. They often serve as easy stops for quick meals, drinks and small daily essentials.
  3. Kimchi appears at countless meals.
    This fermented side dish is one of the best-known foods associated with Korea and comes in many varieties.
  4. Shared dining is common.
    Instead of each person receiving a completely separate plated meal, dishes are often placed in the middle for everyone to enjoy together.
  5. Food is tied closely to social life.
    Eating together can be an important way to build trust, celebrate milestones and strengthen relationships.
  6. Café culture is everywhere.
    From minimalist urban coffee shops to themed cafés, these spaces are widely used for socialising, studying and meeting friends.
  7. Street food is part of the experience.
    Foods such as tteokbokki, hotteok and fish cakes are often mentioned when discussing Korean daily life and local flavour.
  8. Technology is deeply woven into ordinary routines.
    Mobile ordering, fast connectivity and digital convenience shape everything from transport to shopping and food delivery.
  9. Work and study schedules can be demanding.
    Long days are often discussed in relation to both office culture and student life.

If you are planning lessons, food and daily routine are especially useful themes because they are concrete, visual and easy to compare across cultures. Learners can discuss breakfast habits, school lunches, commuting, favourite snacks or how often families eat together.

South Korean food

Facts for the Classroom

Some of the most useful South Korea facts for teachers are the ones that connect directly to school life. These details help turn a culture topic into an engaging, age-appropriate lesson.

  1. Students may spend long hours studying.
    Regular school is often only one part of the day, with some learners also attending private academies known as hagwons.
  2. Teachers are generally treated with visible respect.
    This can shape classroom tone, participation styles and student expectations.
  3. Students may appear quiet at first.
    Silence does not always mean disengagement. In some contexts, learners may be listening carefully rather than volunteering instantly.
  4. Routine and structure are often important.
    Clear lesson goals, organised tasks and consistent expectations can help a class run smoothly.

Classroom activity ideas

  • Compare a school day in South Korea with a school day in your learners’ country.
  • Create a food culture lesson using Korean side dishes, rice meals and café culture as prompts.
  • Use Hangul as a starter activity when teaching world languages or global literacy systems.
  • Ask pupils to sort facts into categories such as tradition, technology, language and education.
  • Turn the article into a reading comprehension task with prediction, skimming and discussion stages.

These activities work especially well in EFL, geography, citizenship and intercultural communication lessons. They also help learners move beyond stereotypes and see South Korea as a complex, modern society with both continuity and change.

South Korea Classroom Comparison Table

A comparison table is useful when introducing cultural difference in a balanced and practical way. The goal is not to suggest that one system is better than another, but to show how expectations may differ across educational contexts.

Area South Korea Typical UK or Western context What this may mean for teachers
Teacher role Often formal and clearly respected Often more conversational and visibly relaxed Authority may be assumed more quickly in Korea, but warmth still matters
Participation style Students may wait before speaking Students may be encouraged to volunteer quickly Build in thinking time and gentle prompting
Study hours Can extend beyond school through extra study Usually less centred on private evening academies Be aware of student fatigue and pressure
Classroom structure Often organised and routine-driven May vary widely by school and teacher style Clear sequencing is usually appreciated
Language etiquette Politeness and hierarchy strongly affect speech English generally uses fewer built-in speech levels Explain tone, register and classroom phrasing carefully
Family expectations Academic progress can carry significant family importance Expectations differ widely by region and household Parent communication and outcomes may feel high-stakes
Classroom atmosphere Respectful, sometimes reserved at first Often more informal from the start Do not mistake quietness for lack of interest

Teaching in South Korea

South Korea remains a strong option for English teachers because it offers a combination of professional opportunity, cultural immersion and structured educational settings.

Why many teachers consider South Korea

  • Demand for English teaching remains a major reason people look at Korea as a destination.
  • Teachers often value the chance to experience a distinct culture while building practical experience.
  • Structured schools and clear expectations can suit teachers who prefer organised working environments.
  • Living in Korea also creates natural opportunities to build lessons around real local experiences, from food and festivals to transport and language.

What to keep in mind

Teaching in South Korea is rewarding, but success depends on cultural awareness as much as teaching skill. A teacher who understands classroom respect, communication style and local expectations will usually settle in more smoothly than one who relies only on generic travel advice.

The TEFL Institute presents itself as an internationally recognised and accredited TEFL course provider offering online TEFL certification, career support and job placement assistance for teaching abroad or online. Its website also highlights regulated and accredited training, including an Ofqual-regulated Level 5 TEFL Diploma and ongoing learner support.

Learn more on our YouTube channel.

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Professional Disclaimer

This article is intended for general informational and educational use only. Cultural norms, school expectations, daily routines and teaching conditions in South Korea can vary by city, school type, employer and individual experience.Readers should use this article as a starting point rather than a substitute for formal advice, employer guidance or professional relocation support. Anyone planning to teach in South Korea should confirm current visa, hiring, accommodation, salary and workplace information through appropriate official or professional channels.

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]]> https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/25-fun-facts-about-south-korea-every-english-teacher-should-know/feed/ 0 Which Cities Pay the Most in South Korea for TEFL Teachers https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/which-cities-pay-the-most-in-south-korea-for-tefl-teachers/ https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/which-cities-pay-the-most-in-south-korea-for-tefl-teachers/#respond Thu, 15 Jan 2026 15:36:31 +0000 https://teflinstitute.com/blog// How much do English teachers earn in South Korea? Verified EPIK, hagwon and university pay, how cities compare on living costs, and what you need to qualify.

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]]> Updated 8 October 2026: pay checked against the EPIK 2027 scale; unsourced city salaries and premiums removed.

English teachers in South Korea typically earn ₩2.2 to ₩2.8 million a month in public schools through EPIK (about €1,430 to €1,820) and around ₩2.3 to ₩2.5 million in private academies (hagwons), usually with free housing. EPIK pays on one national scale set by your qualifications and experience, not by city. Seoul has the most jobs and the highest pay at universities and international schools, while cities such as Busan, Daegu and Daejeon cost less to live in, so you often save more there.

Korea is one of the few countries where the main public school programme publishes its pay scale, which makes it easier to compare offers honestly. This guide sets out the verified pay for each type of job, explains how city choice changes what you actually keep, and shows what you need to qualify.

Key takeaways

  • EPIK public school pay is ₩2.2 to ₩2.8 million a month for the Spring 2027 intake, on a national scale by level.
  • Hagwons typically pay around ₩2.3 to ₩2.5 million a month; universities roughly ₩2.5 to ₩4 million.
  • Free housing or a housing allowance is standard, and Korean law gives one month’s severance pay after a contract of a year or more.
  • You need a bachelor’s degree, citizenship of one of seven English speaking countries for the E-2 visa, and a TEFL. EPIK sets 100 hours; a 120-hour TEFL certificate is the safer standard.
  • Pay differs more by job type than by city. City choice mostly changes your living costs.

How much do English teachers earn in South Korea?

Most English teachers in Korea earn between ₩2.2 and ₩2.8 million a month in public schools or around ₩2.3 to ₩2.5 million in hagwons, with housing provided. University and international school roles pay more but ask for more experience and qualifications.

Job type Typical monthly pay In euros (approx.) Usually included
EPIK public schools ₩2.2 to ₩2.8 million €1,430 to €1,820 Free housing, flight support, health insurance, pension
Hagwons (private academies) ₩2.3 to ₩2.5 million €1,495 to €1,625 Free housing or allowance, health insurance, pension
Universities ₩2.5 to ₩4 million €1,625 to €2,600 Long holidays; usually a master’s degree or experience
International schools Above these ranges Varies Usually a teaching licence and classroom experience
EPIK figures from the programme’s own pay scale for Spring 2027, re-read 30 September 2026 for our TEFL Salary Index. Other ranges from our South Korea country guide, checked 4 October 2026. Euro figures at the ECB reference rate used in the Salary Index.

Two features make Korean packages stronger than the headline figure suggests. Housing is normally provided, which removes the largest living cost. And under Korean labour law, completing a contract of a year or more earns one month’s base salary as severance.

Does EPIK pay differ by city?

No. EPIK pays every teacher on the same national scale, and your level on that scale depends on your qualifications and teaching experience, not on the city you are placed in. Placement location affects your living costs and lifestyle, not your base salary.

For how EPIK works, including intakes and applications, see our guide to what EPIK is.

Which Korean cities are best for English teachers?

Seoul offers the most jobs and the highest paying university and international school roles, but it is the most expensive city. Busan, Incheon, Daegu and Daejeon usually cost less to live in, so with the same salary and free housing you can often save more.

Seoul

The capital has the deepest job market across every school type, the most international schools and universities, and the largest expat community. It is the best choice if you want variety or plan to move up to higher paying roles.

Busan

Korea’s second city combines a large job market with beaches and a more relaxed pace. Living costs are generally lower than in Seoul.

Incheon

Home to the main international airport and within easy reach of Seoul by train, Incheon suits teachers who want access to the capital without its costs.

Daegu and Daejeon

These large regional cities have lower living costs and steady demand, which makes them strong choices if saving money is your main goal.

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How much can you save teaching in Korea?

With free housing, many teachers save a meaningful share of their pay, especially outside Seoul. The amount depends on your lifestyle far more than your contract, so the most reliable estimate is your own: take the monthly salary, subtract a realistic budget for food, transport, phone and leisure in your city, and add the month of severance at the end.

Korea’s statutory national minimum wage is ₩10,320 an hour from 1 January 2026, which gives a useful floor when you check the hours behind any offer.

What do you need to teach English in Korea?

You need an E-2 teaching visa. That requires a bachelor’s degree, citizenship of the United States, United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or South Africa, and a clean criminal record check.

The Visa Desk links to the official E-2 guidance, and our article on teaching in Korea without a degree covers the alternatives.

EPIK or hagwon: which pays better?

On base pay they are similar: EPIK runs ₩2.2 to ₩2.8 million and hagwons typically ₩2.3 to ₩2.5 million. The real differences are hours, holidays and stability.

Factor EPIK Hagwon
Pay National scale by level Set by each academy
Hours Daytime, school calendar Often afternoons and evenings
Hiring Fixed intakes All year
Choice of city Allocated by the programme You choose the school

Whichever you choose, check the contract for housing, hours, holidays, severance and who handles your visa. Our guide to getting your first TEFL job explains how to spot a risky offer.

Ready to teach English in South Korea?

The TEFL Institute Group is Europe’s largest TEFL trainer by teachers certified, with 161,000 teachers certified since 2017 and graduates in 80 countries. We are a Highfield Approved Centre (number 21335).

Start with the 120 Hour Advanced TEFL Course to meet EPIK and hagwon requirements, or choose the 180 Hour Level 5 TEFL Diploma (Ofqual 610/1571/4) if you plan to move on to universities or competitive schools.

Ian O'Sullivan, The TEFL Institute Group

Ian O’Sullivan, Founder

Founded The TEFL Institute Group in 2017 to bring honesty to TEFL training; more than 20 years in the field, now Europe’s largest TEFL trainer by teachers certified, with 161,000 graduates in 80 countries.

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]]> https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/which-cities-pay-the-most-in-south-korea-for-tefl-teachers/feed/ 0 Successfully Teach English in Korea: A Step-by-Step Guide https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/teach-english-in-korea-step-by-step-guide/ https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/teach-english-in-korea-step-by-step-guide/#respond Thu, 09 Oct 2025 05:00:14 +0000 https://teflinstitute.com/blog/teach-english-in-korea-step-by-step-guide/ Learn how to teach English in Korea with this step-by-step guide. Discover essential steps to secure your position and thrive in the classroom.

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]]> Successfully Teach English in Korea: A Step-by-Step Guide

teach english korea classroom

Teaching English in Korea sounds like an adventure, and thousands of teachers make the leap every year. You might expect rigid entry requirements to shut out most applicants, but the reality is surprisingly open. Most teaching jobs only require a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL certification. That means starting a new life on the other side of the world is closer than you might think.

Planning a move? Read our guide to teaching English in South Korea for salaries, visa rules and living costs.

Table of Contents

Quick Summary

Key Point Explanation
1. Research teaching opportunities thoroughly Understand various pathways, from government programs to private academies, to find the best fit for your teaching goals.
2. Secure TEFL certification Obtain a recognized TEFL certification of at least 120 hours, enhancing your employability for teaching positions.
3. Create a competitive application package Prepare translated documents and a detailed resume showcasing qualifications and teaching experience for Korean employers.
4. Understand cultural adaptation Learn about Korean cultural norms and workplace etiquette to facilitate a smoother transition into your teaching role.
5. Reflect on your experience for growth Conduct a self-evaluation post-teaching to leverage gained skills and connections for future career opportunities.

Step 1: Research Teaching Opportunities and Requirements

Starting your journey to teach English in Korea requires strategic research and understanding the diverse teaching landscape. Before packing your bags, you need to comprehensively explore the available opportunities and specific requirements that will shape your teaching experience. South Korea offers multiple pathways for English instructors, including public school programs like EPIK (English Program in Korea), private language academies known as hagwons, international schools, and university positions.

To begin your research, focus on understanding the core requirements for foreign English teachers. Most positions mandate that candidates hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Native English speakers from countries like the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa are typically preferred. Additionally, many employers require a clean criminal background check and a TEFL certification to demonstrate your professional teaching capabilities. Learn more about essential TEFL skills that can strengthen your application.

When investigating teaching opportunities, explore multiple recruitment channels. Government programs like EPIK offer structured placement with predictable salaries and benefits, while private hagwons provide more flexible hiring timelines and potentially higher compensation. University positions are often the most competitive but also offer the most attractive working conditions. Consider reaching out to recruitment agencies specializing in Korean teaching placements, who can provide personalized guidance and match your profile with suitable positions.

Here is a comparison table that outlines the main pathways for teaching English in Korea, helping you choose the best fit for your goals and qualifications:

Pathway Hiring Cycle Requirements Pros Cons
EPIK (Public Schools) Structured (spring/fall) Bachelor’s, TEFL, native Stable job, benefits, paid vacation Competitive, set locations
Private Hagwons Year-round, flexible Bachelor’s, TEFL preferred Potentially higher pay, various cities Longer hours, mixed job stability
International Schools Varies, often annual Bachelor’s, teaching lic. Higher salaries, better facilities Most competitive, strict requirements
Universities Annual, mostly spring/fall Master’s often preferred Best salary/hours, prestigious Limited openings, advanced qualifications

Key research resources for prospective teachers include official government websites, reputable job boards focused on teaching abroad, and professional TEFL networks. Websites like Dave’s ESL Cafe, RedOak TEFL, and official Korean education portals offer comprehensive job listings and insights into the teaching landscape. Network with current and former teachers through online forums and social media groups to gain real world perspectives on working conditions, salary expectations, and cultural adaptation strategies.

Verify your readiness by creating a comprehensive checklist of requirements. Confirm you have:

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • A valid passport
  • A clean criminal background check
  • TEFL certification
  • Native or near-native English proficiency
  • Willingness to commit to a typical one-year contract

By meticulously researching opportunities and understanding requirements, you’ll position yourself as a competitive candidate for teaching English in Korea, setting the foundation for an exciting professional adventure.

Step 2: Obtain Necessary Qualifications and Certifications

Navigating the qualifications landscape for teaching English in Korea requires strategic planning and deliberate skill development. Your primary focus will be securing a TEFL certification and ensuring you meet the specific academic and professional requirements demanded by Korean educational institutions. A comprehensive approach involves understanding the nuanced certification requirements and selecting the right training program to maximize your employability.

Infographic showing steps to qualify to teach English in Korea.

A TEFL certification is practically mandatory for most teaching positions in Korea. These internationally recognized credentials demonstrate your professional teaching capabilities and provide essential pedagogical skills. When selecting a TEFL course, prioritize programs offering at least 120 hours of comprehensive training, which is the standard minimum requirement for most reputable schools and language academies. Online courses provide flexibility, while hybrid or in-person programs offer more interactive learning experiences. Explore our guide on crafting the perfect teaching resume to understand how your certification can enhance your professional profile.

Beyond TEFL certification, you’ll need to compile a robust documentation portfolio. This includes obtaining an apostilled bachelor’s degree (a special authentication required for international document verification), a clean criminal background check, and official transcripts. The apostille process involves getting your degree officially certified by your home country’s designated authority, typically the Secretary of State’s office or equivalent governmental department. Some recruiters and schools may also require sealed, original transcripts directly sent from your university.

Consider additional qualifications that can distinguish your application. Advanced certifications like CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults) or specialized TEFL diplomas can provide a competitive edge. Some teachers pursue supplementary credentials in areas like business English, young learner instruction, or online teaching methodologies. These specialized certifications not only improve your chances of securing desirable positions but can also potentially negotiate higher salaries.

Verify your qualifications readiness by ensuring you have:

  • A TEFL certification of at least 120 hours
  • Authenticated bachelor’s degree with apostille
  • Clean criminal background check
  • Passport valid for at least 18 months
  • Original, sealed academic transcripts
  • Professional headshot and comprehensive resume

By methodically obtaining and organizing your professional credentials, you transform yourself from a potential candidate into an attractive, professionally prepared English teaching prospect ready to embark on your Korean educational adventure.

tefl certification korea

Step 3: Apply for Teaching Positions in Korea

The application process for teaching English in Korea demands meticulous preparation and strategic execution. Your goal is to transform your carefully assembled qualifications into a compelling professional profile that attracts potential employers. Discover essential insights about TEFL requirements in South Korea to refine your approach and understand the nuanced job market.

Begin by identifying your preferred teaching pathway: public school programs like EPIK, private language academies (hagwons), international schools, or university positions. Each platform requires slightly different application strategies. Recruitment typically happens through government programs, specialized recruitment agencies, and online job boards dedicated to teaching opportunities in Korea. Websites like Dave’s ESL Cafe, Korean Recruiting, and official EPIK portals serve as primary resources for job seekers.

Prepare a comprehensive application package that goes beyond a standard resume. Korean employers expect professionally translated documents, including academic credentials, TEFL certification, and a detailed resume highlighting your teaching experience and cultural adaptability. Your application should showcase not just professional qualifications but also your potential to integrate into Korean educational environments. Professional headshots are standard in Korean job applications, so invest in a high-quality, formal photograph that meets local professional standards.

Navigation of the application process involves understanding seasonal hiring cycles. Most public school programs recruit twice annually – typically for spring (February/March) and fall (August/September) semesters. Private academies have more flexible hiring timelines. Develop a systematic approach by creating a tracking spreadsheet to monitor application status, submission dates, and follow-up communications. Prepare for potential video interviews, which have become increasingly common in international recruitment.

Ensure your application is competitive by addressing these critical elements:

  • Professionally translated academic documents
  • Notarized and apostilled diploma
  • Clean criminal background check
  • Professional resume highlighting teaching skills
  • Formal headshot photograph
  • Copies of TEFL certification
  • References from previous teaching or professional experiences

By crafting a thorough, culturally sensitive application and understanding the intricate recruitment landscape, you position yourself as a desirable candidate ready to embark on an exciting teaching journey in Korea. Patience, persistence, and professionalism will be your greatest allies throughout this transformative process.

Step 4: Prepare for Your Move and Cultural Adaptation

Transitioning to life and work in Korea requires comprehensive preparation that extends far beyond packing a suitcase. Your successful adaptation hinges on thoughtful planning, cultural understanding, and practical logistics. Learn about travel safety and official requirements to ensure a smooth transition into your new professional environment.

Use this checklist table to ensure you have all necessary documents and preparations in place before your move to Korea:

Requirement Description Status (Ready/Needed)
Valid Passport Minimum 18 months validity remaining
Apostilled Bachelor’s Degree Degree authenticated for use in Korea
Clean Criminal Background Check Recent and apostilled as per visa requirements
TEFL Certification Minimum 120 hours; increases employability
Original & Sealed Transcripts Sent directly from your university if required
Professional Headshot Formal photograph for job applications
International Health Insurance Coverage for the entire contract period
Basic Korean Language Resources Apps or books for initial language learning

Begin with essential documentation and visa preparations. You’ll need to secure an E-2 teaching visa, which demands a meticulously assembled application package. This includes your signed employment contract, apostilled degree, criminal background check, passport, and health documentation. Many employers will assist with visa processing, but understanding the requirements prevents potential complications. Schedule a comprehensive medical examination, as Korean immigration requires a standard health screening to verify your fitness for teaching.

Financial preparation is equally critical. Research the cost of living in your specific Korean city, understanding that expenses vary dramatically between metropolitan Seoul and smaller regional towns. Open an international bank account that allows easy international transfers, and investigate mobile banking options. Korean banks often require local documentation, so many expatriate teachers initially rely on international banking services with robust overseas support. Budget for initial setup costs like apartment deposit, initial living expenses, and potential unexpected costs.

Cultural adaptation requires proactive learning and emotional intelligence. Invest time in learning basic Korean language skills through mobile apps, online courses, or language exchange platforms. Understanding fundamental cultural norms around professional interactions, dining etiquette, and social expectations will dramatically smooth your transition. Korean workplace culture emphasizes hierarchical respect, group harmony, and indirect communication. Familiarize yourself with basic cultural protocols like using two hands when receiving items, removing shoes indoors, and understanding appropriate social gestures.

Prepare your relocation checklist by confirming these essential items:

  • Valid passport with at least 18 months remaining
  • Completed E-2 visa documentation
  • Copies of all important personal documents
  • International health insurance
  • Adaptable electrical converters
  • Sufficient initial funds for setup expenses
  • Basic Korean language learning resources

By methodically addressing logistical, financial, and cultural preparation, you transform a potentially overwhelming international move into an exciting, manageable adventure. Your proactive approach will help you navigate the complexities of teaching and living in Korea with confidence and enthusiasm.

Step 5: Execute Your Teaching Role Effectively

Successfully navigating your teaching role in Korea requires more than technical knowledge and lesson planning. It demands cultural sensitivity, adaptive teaching strategies, and a deep understanding of the Korean educational ecosystem. Explore advanced techniques for effective teaching to elevate your professional performance and student engagement.

Understanding the Korean classroom dynamic is crucial for effective instruction. Korean students typically exhibit high respect for educators and value structured learning environments. Your teaching approach should balance professional authority with engaging, interactive methodologies. Public school and hagwon settings have distinct expectations: public schools often require more comprehensive curriculum adherence, while private academies might emphasize conversational English and test preparation. Develop a flexible teaching style that can seamlessly transition between these different institutional expectations.

Lesson planning becomes your primary strategic tool for successful teaching. Create curriculum frameworks that integrate Korean educational standards with communicative, student centered learning techniques. Interactive activities that encourage speaking and listening will be more effective than traditional grammar-focused instruction. Utilize multimedia resources, incorporate cultural exchange elements, and design lessons that make English learning both challenging and enjoyable. Technology can be a powerful ally, so integrate digital tools and interactive platforms that capture student interest and demonstrate contemporary language usage.

Professional relationships within your school environment are equally important. Korean workplace culture emphasizes collective harmony, respect for hierarchical structures, and indirect communication. Build positive relationships with Korean co-teachers, administrators, and support staff by demonstrating reliability, cultural awareness, and a collaborative spirit. Learn basic Korean communication etiquette, participate in school social events, and show genuine interest in understanding the local educational context.

Verify your teaching effectiveness through these key performance indicators:

  • Student engagement and participation levels
  • Consistent lesson plan execution
  • Positive feedback from co-teachers and administrators
  • Measurable student language progression
  • Adaptability to different classroom scenarios
  • Maintenance of professional and cultural standards

By approaching your teaching role with strategic preparation, cultural intelligence, and pedagogical flexibility, you transform a professional assignment into a profound cross cultural educational experience. Your success depends not just on linguistic expertise, but on your ability to connect, inspire, and facilitate meaningful learning environments.

Step 6: Evaluate Your Experience and Future Perspectives

Reflecting critically on your teaching experience in Korea transforms a temporary assignment into a strategic career development opportunity. This final step represents more than a mere conclusion; it’s a comprehensive professional assessment that will shape your future international education trajectory. Discover strategies for advancing your TEFL career to maximize the long term potential of your Korean teaching experience.

Begin by conducting a systematic self evaluation of your professional growth. Document your achievements, challenges overcome, and specific skills developed during your teaching tenure. Korean teaching environments offer unique professional development opportunities that extend beyond traditional language instruction. You will likely have enhanced cross cultural communication skills, gained experience in adaptive teaching methodologies, and developed a nuanced understanding of international educational practices. Create a detailed portfolio highlighting these professional competencies, which can become a powerful asset for future international teaching opportunities.

Career progression in international education requires strategic networking and continuous learning. Connect with fellow expatriate teachers, join professional TEFL networks, and maintain relationships with colleagues and administrators from your Korean teaching experience. Many teachers transition into roles such as educational consultants, curriculum developers, international school administrators, or pursue advanced degrees in education or language acquisition. Some professionals leverage their Korean teaching experience to explore opportunities in other Asian educational markets or specialized language training programs.

Financial and personal reflections are equally important. Assess your economic outcomes, including savings potential, professional development investments, and the broader financial impact of your Korean teaching experience. Many teachers use this opportunity to pay off student loans, save for future educational pursuits, or fund additional international travel. Personal growth metrics are equally significant consider how your cultural adaptability, language skills, and global perspective have transformed during your time in Korea.

Evaluate your experience through these comprehensive perspectives:

  • Professional skill development
  • Cultural adaptation capabilities
  • Financial outcomes and savings
  • Personal growth and international experience
  • Potential future career trajectories
  • Networking and relationship building

By approaching your teaching experience as a holistic professional development journey, you transform a temporary assignment into a profound, transformative global education experience. Your time in Korea becomes not just a teaching role, but a strategic investment in your international career potential.

Unlock Your TEFL Teaching Success in Korea Today

Are you worried about navigating complex requirements like TEFL certification, apostilled documents, and adapting to Korean classrooms? This step-by-step guide highlights the real barriers future teachers face: making your application stand out, building genuine lesson planning skills, and preparing emotionally for an exciting move overseas. The dream of teaching English in Korea starts with the right preparation and guidance. Dive deeper with the expert resources at TEFL Institute to put yourself ahead of the competition when it matters most.

https://teflinstitute.com

Thousands of successful teachers have launched global careers by choosing the right professional development at the perfect moment. Sharpen your expertise with our flexible online TEFL courses and specialist certifications. Download clear resource guides, compare opportunities, and discover practical tips for your journey. Take the first step to transform your teaching career—visit TEFL Institute’s main site now and secure your place in Korea’s thriving classrooms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications do I need to teach English in Korea?

Most teaching positions require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and a TEFL certification of at least 120 hours. Additionally, many employers prefer native English speakers from certain countries and may require a clean criminal background check.

How can I find teaching opportunities in Korea?

You can find teaching opportunities through government programs, private language academies, international schools, and university positions. Websites like official government portals, ESL job boards, and professional TEFL networks can serve as valuable resources for job listings.

What documents are needed for a teaching visa in Korea?

To obtain an E-2 teaching visa, you’ll need a signed employment contract, an apostilled bachelor’s degree, a clean criminal background check, your passport, and health documentation. Ensuring your application is complete will help prevent complications during the visa process.

How can I adapt to the cultural differences while teaching in Korea?

It’s essential to invest time in learning basic Korean language skills and understanding cultural norms, such as hierarchy and indirect communication styles. Being open-minded, respectful, and proactive in engaging with your students and colleagues will greatly aid your cultural adaptation.

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]]> https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/teach-english-in-korea-step-by-step-guide/feed/ 0 TEFL and TESOL Teaching in South Korea https://teflinstitute.com/it/blog/tefl-and-tesol-teaching-in-south-korea/ Mon, 07 Feb 2022 09:55:17 +0000 https://teflinstitute.com/blog// Finding the right country for your TEFL experience is a tough one. There are so many truly wonderful destinations out there and too much choice for TEFL and TESOL teachers. We’re here to make that a little easier for you! TEFL and TESOL Teaching in South Korea is all the new craze and the economy […]

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]]> Finding the right country for your TEFL experience is a tough one. There are so many truly wonderful destinations out there and too much choice for TEFL and TESOL teachers. We’re here to make that a little easier for you! TEFL and TESOL Teaching in South Korea is all the new craze and the economy is booming. If you are looking for a TEFL destination that is high paying, has a good lifestyle, and supportive and friendly culture, then South Korea is for you.  

From the culture and tourism of South Korea to the teaching experience, let us take you on a journey and find out everything you need to know before moving to South Korea.

Also Read: Best TEFL Destinations for 2022 for Native English Speakers

Planning a move? Read our guide to teaching English in South Korea for salaries, visa rules and living costs.

About South Korea

South Korea is home to an abundance of attractions. TEFL and TESOL teachers will enjoy a unique blend of historical-cultural heritage and contemporary culture. Teachers can explore and appreciate local cultures, natural settings, and unique food thanks to these maintained local identities.

As a TEFL teacher, you won’t have any problems getting used to the lifestyle that’s lived in South Korea. Generally, Koreans live by the Confucian culture, which ultimately is living with respect for elders, seniority, and ancestors. We think this is such a lovely way to live! They also have a “work to live” ethic, not a “live to work”. It is a beautiful and refreshing culture. 

In saying this, Koreans are also very up-to-date with modern technology and cultures. Home of K-pop and modern art, there is so much to see and explore while over there. Especially in the big cities, you’ll see modern influence everywhere. 

South Korea is also the world leader in internet connectivity. Approximately 92% of the country’s population are internet users, and they boast the world’s fastest average connection speed. So, if you’re feeling like you’d like to teach online in your spare time, there’ll be zero issues!

When it comes to attractions, South Korea has some of the best in the world! One of the most fascinating is a no-land man’s that is part of a military boundary between two countries that are still formally at war (the DMZ). Other places to add to your bucket list would be Changdeokgung Palace, Busan, Jeonju, and, of course, N Seoul Tower. 

When teaching, make sure to know that children born in South Korea are considered “one year old” when they are born and will turn two on the next Lunar New Year. 100 days after their birth, a celebration is held for the baby. Another good fact to know when teaching TEFL/TESOL in South Korea is that red ink is considered bad luck, so make sure to use the right pen! 

Minimum Requirements for TEFL Teaching in South Korea

You must apply for an E-2 (teaching) visa through your nearest Korean embassy or consulate if you want to teach English in Korea.

There are four basic requirements that must be met in order to be eligible for an E-2 visa.  A bachelor’s degree or diploma from an authorized institution is required. You must be a citizen of one of the following countries: the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, South Africa, or New Zealand.   Also, if you are from Quebec, you may be required to demonstrate your English skills. For example, holding a degree or diploma from an English-speaking CEGEP or university will help. You must pass a drug and health test. Lastly, you should have a clean criminal record. 

Schools and programs may have further requirements and the public school system seems to be a lot more strict, but these requirements are the minimum that you do need. 

Types of Schools in South Korea

In South Korea, there are five main routes for TEFL and TESOL teaching abroad. These include public schools, hagwons (private schools), universities and international schools, and private tutoring.

Students travel to private language centers (Hagwons) to learn English as a supplement to their public school education or as an alternative for their public school education. The average class size is between 8 and 15 students. Teachers have access to internal systems that allow them to share lesson plans. Private institutions only require rudimentary lesson planning.

Students attend public schools for their daily education. Teachers in public schools often teach at 1-3 different public schools during the week (depending on the province) to keep their calendars full. Monday through Friday, working hours are normally in the mornings and afternoons. The average class size in public schools is roughly 20-30 people. In the class, there is a South Korean teaching assistant.

South Korea holds great importance on continuing education, and there are more than 400 colleges in the country, many of which offer English programs taught by native speakers. In Korea, experienced TEFL and TESOL teachers look for university professions because they provide autonomy, short teaching hours, older pupils, and the potential of a four-month vacation. You will need experience for these types of jobs though, but it’s something to work up to. 

Also Read: Top TEFL Destinations for 2022 for Non-native English Speakers

Our Program

Looking to teach for a year in a beautiful country with a rich culture? Then you’ve arrived at the perfect spot! With this TEFL internship, you’ll gain a lifelong TEFL qualification and enhance your teaching skills while enjoying the cultural joys of unique and colorful South Korea.

It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to teach in Korea. There are opportunities to stay if you are not ready to leave following a one-year contract teaching pupils in elementary and middle school. We have teaching positions available in both large cities and small towns around South Korea, as well as private and public schools.

This is an amazing opportunity with the best people, but here are a few highlights of what you can expect: 

  • Salary up to $2,050 – €1,730 – £1,500 depending on qualifications & experience
  • Rent-free accommodation
  • One-way flight reimbursement
  • End of contract bonus (equivalent to one month’s pay)
  • 12-month long teaching placement
  • Teach in public or private language schools
  • Visa Assistance
  • Full arrival induction
  • In-country teacher meetups
  • One-month online Korean language lessons
  • Medical insurance (school covers 50%)
  • Weekends off & All public holidays off
  • Ongoing in-country support
  • Introduction to Korean Culture course
  • Cultural Etiquette at Korean Schools short course

 

You can participate in two cultural orientations during the year while teaching English in South Korea, in addition to your leisure time. Our program providers will hold classes and excursions over three weekends in a row. For more information, please see our dedicated webpage to South Korea or call us today! 

TEFL Courses

FAQs

 

Q: Does Korea accept TEFL Certification?

Not only is it accepted, but in order to teach English in South Korea, you must have a TEFL certification. You do not need professional teaching experience to get hired. However, obtaining your TEFL certification will equip you with the necessary training and qualifications.

 

Q: How much do TEFL teachers earn in South Korea?

This will depend on the route you choose as there are lots of options in South Korea. Teacher salaries in public schools range from 1.5-3 million won per month. Your average monthly wage as a teacher at a Korean Hagwon, or private academy, would be 1.9-2.3 million won. English teachers in South Korea are paid 2.3-3.5 million won per month by universities. As an English teacher in an international school, you can earn between 1.8 and 2.8 million won each month.

 

Q: How do I get a TEFL job easily in South Korea?

The key to getting employment in South Korea is to first have all the requirements for a work permit. Once you meet these, as teachers are high in demand, it can be quite easy to get a TEFL job. The easiest way for you to go through application processes, visa applications, and organizing flights is through a program, which will help you with your demo lesson for the application, interview skills, and everything in between. 

 

Q: Which TEFL course is best for South Korea?

Most South Korean schools will accept the 120-hour TEFL certificate. There may a few that will want the level 5 qualification. Schools, such as universities and business English schools, may require this. For the most part, though, the 120-hour TEFL certification will do just fine. If you don’t have any experience, we still suggest level 5 as this may help you get a higher wage and help you stand out in front of the crowd. 

 

Q: Are English teachers in demand in Korea?

South Korea’s economy is one of the world’s most modern, yet it has preserved much of its unique culture as one of the four Asian tigers. Teaching English in South Korea is one of the most popular TEFL destinations in the world for this reason.

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