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What is the Average Salary for English Teachers in South Korea?

What is the Average Salary for English Teachers in South Korea?

South Korea, known for its dynamic culture, advanced technology, and high educational standards, is a popular destination for English teachers from around the globe. The country offers a unique blend of traditional and modern lifestyles, making it an attractive place for those looking to teach English abroad. But one of the most pressing questions for prospective English teachers is: How much can I expect to earn in South Korea? Let’s delve into the factors that influence salaries and the average earnings for English teachers in this vibrant country.

3 Factors Influencing Salaries

 1. Type of Institution: The salary of an English teacher in South Korea can vary significantly depending on the type of institution they work for. There are primarily two categories:

  • Public Schools: These positions offer stability and benefits such as paid vacation, housing, and airfare.
  • Hagwons (Private Academies): Hagwons may offer higher salaries but often come with longer hours and may not include as many benefits.

2. Location: Salaries can also vary based on location, with teachers in larger cities like Seoul or Busan potentially earning more due to the higher cost of living, but also facing higher expenses.

3. Experience and Qualifications: Teachers with more experience and higher qualifications (such as a TEFL certification or a master’s degree in education) can expect to earn more. Specialized skills, like teaching business English or preparing students for tests like TOEFL, can also command higher salaries.

Thailand Meet Up

Average Salaries

The average salary for English teachers in South Korea ranges from KRW 2.1 million to KRW 2.3 million (approximately USD 1,600 to USD 1,800) per month for new teachers. More experienced teachers or those with additional qualifications can expect to earn upwards of KRW 3 million (around USD 2,500) per month. It’s important to note that these figures can fluctuate based on the factors mentioned earlier.

Benefits Beyond the Salary

In addition to the base salary, many English teachers in South Korea receive a range of benefits that can significantly enhance their overall compensation package. These often include:

  • Housing: Most teaching positions offer either a furnished apartment or a housing allowance.
  • Airfare: Many schools reimburse international airfare for teachers coming from abroad.
  • Severance Pay: Equivalent to one month’s salary, paid upon completion of a one-year contract.
  • Health Insurance: Partially covered by the employer, offering peace of mind.
  • Paid Vacation: Public school teachers typically enjoy more vacation days than those in hagwons.

The Consequences

Given the relatively low cost of living outside the major metropolitan areas, combined with the benefits provided, many teachers find that they can save a significant portion of their salary, often ranging from USD 500 to USD 1,000 per month, depending on their lifestyle and spending habits. We’ve seen some teachers often save half their salary. 

It ain’t all Sunshine and Roses

Teaching English in South Korea presents both advantages and challenges. Cultural adaptation, language barriers, and adjusting to different work environments can pose initial difficulties. Teachers may encounter demanding workloads, varying living conditions, and potential feelings of isolation. Navigating visa regulations is crucial for a smooth experience. However, many educators find the experience to be rewarding, offering opportunities for personal and professional growth, cultural exchange, and making a positive impact on students’ lives. Success in teaching English in South Korea often hinges on open-mindedness, flexibility, and proactive engagement with the local community. 

Using a company to teach abroad brings numerous benefits, streamlining the process and enhancing the overall experience. These companies provide valuable placement assistance, connecting educators with suitable opportunities based on their qualifications and preferences. Navigating complex legal and administrative requirements, such as visas and work permits, becomes more manageable with their guidance. Cultural orientation, logistical support, and networking opportunities are also offered, facilitating a smoother transition into the new environment. Reputable teaching abroad companies ensure quality placements by vetting schools and institutions, negotiating fair salary and benefits, and provide ongoing support throughout the contract. 

Conclusion

Teaching English in South Korea is not just an opportunity to explore a new culture and gain international work experience; it’s also a viable way to earn a decent income with potential savings. While salaries may not be as high as in some Western countries, the benefits and lower cost of living can make it an attractive option. As always, prospective teachers should do thorough research and consider all factors when deciding where to teach abroad. South Korea, with its blend of tradition and innovation, continues to be a top choice for English teachers worldwide.

Xplore provides in-country TESOL courses based in Seoul plus guaranteed placement in public schools as well as hagwons. You can find out more at www.xploreasia.org/southkorea. 

XploreAsia’s Teach South Korea Program: Survey Reveals a Shift from Perception to Reality

XploreAsia’s Teach South Korea Program: Survey Reveals a Shift from Perception to Reality

[Incheon, Seoul] – In a groundbreaking survey conducted in early 2023, XploreAsia, a renowned provider of teacher training and placement programs, set out to challenge and reshape the perception of South Korea as one of the most daunting destinations for teaching English abroad. They sent the survey to 300+ of their participants teaching English in schools across South Korea. The results of the survey, which involved over 100 respondents from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia and South Africa, highlight a significant shift from perceived challenges to the reality of teacher satisfaction and successful cultural adaptation.

Our teachers hanging out at Gyeongbokgung Palace

Perception often dictates that teaching English in South Korea is fraught with difficulties, including making cultural connections, coping with demanding school schedules, and meeting high academic expectations. However, the survey’s findings debunk these myths and shed light on the true experiences of English teachers in South Korea.

Participants in front Gyeongbokgung Palace during Orientation week

Key findings from the survey vividly demonstrate this transformation:

+ Teacher Satisfaction: The survey revealed an astonishing 93% of surveyed teachers reported their placements as “Excellent” or “Good.” These results showcase a remarkable level of teacher satisfaction in South Korea, sharply contrasting with perceived challenges.

A teacher at one of our teaching practicals

+ School Support: Approximately 89% of teachers expressed that their schools support them “Excellent” or “Good.” The strong support system within Korean schools underscores the collaborative relationships between teachers and their Korean colleagues and management, defying negative expectations.

+ Recommendations: A remarkable two-thirds of teachers would recommend their schools to future teachers, offering a resounding vote of confidence in their teaching  environments.

+ Retention: A significant 66% of teachers plan to extend their stay in South Korea for an additional year, emphasizing their contentment with their South Korean experience.

However, perhaps the most striking revelation is the shift from perception to reality in terms of cultural adaptation. Astoundingly, 100% of surveyed teachers reported an “Excellent” or “Good” adaptation to Korean culture. This demonstrates that, with the right mindset and preparation, teachers can immerse themselves in Korean society, embrace local customs, and genuinely connect with the community.

Here are some poignant quotes from survey participants:

Sumaya shared, “My Korean co-teachers made me feel welcome and showed me how to appropriately behave in certain settings that were unclear. Immersing myself in the culture also helped.”

 Hafsa expressed, “I feel like I adapted very well to the Korean culture by integrating myself into the workforce and meeting many Korean people and exploring the country. This helped me to gain better knowledge and understanding of how Korean systems work.”

 Maria stated, “Everyday life is easy, and making friends is not too difficult.”

 Simran added, “I love my life in Korea. The food is great, everything is efficient, and it is a bonus if you understand some of the language.”

 Hafiza shared, “I feel like I have adapted well and am very comfortable living in Korea. I haven’t felt homesick since being here due to exploring Korea and meeting new people. It has been a very fun and exciting time for me.”

Newly qualified teachers at the end-of-course barbecue and graduation

Michael Volpe, Managing Director of XploreAsia, commented on the findings, stating, “Korea is undoubtedly a challenging place for English teachers, but the opportunities it offers are remarkable. Our pre-arrival and in-country support, including cultural and language training, ensure that teachers are well-prepared to navigate and thrive in this unique environment, turning perceived challenges into enriching realities.”

This survey conducted by XploreAsia effectively reshapes the narrative surrounding teaching English in South Korea, offering a testament to the potential for success and fulfillment in what was once seen as a formidable destination for educators.

Our participants at cooking class during Cultural Orientation

For more information about XploreAsia’s Teach South Korea Program and their efforts to redefine perceptions and celebrate the reality of teaching in South Korea, please visit www.xploreasia.org.

About XploreAsia:

XploreAsia is a leading provider of internationally accredited TEFL/TESOL courses and guaranteed teaching jobs, dedicated to empowering individuals to make a meaningful impact through education. With a strong commitment to cultural immersion, comprehensive training, and personalized support, XploreAsia offers a range of programs designed to connect qualified teachers with educational opportunities around the world. Over 12 years of industry experience, XploreAsia has brought more than 10,000 people abroad to teach English as a second language.

Cultural Orientation in South Korea (The Itinerary)

Cultural Orientation in South Korea (The Itinerary)

Guest Writer –

Cultural Orientation: South Korea Itinerary

Greetings all current and aspiring teachers! It has been a very busy week here in Korea, as we have welcomed our second in-class TESOL group in over 2 years to our Head Quarters in Incheon, South Korea. I just wanted to give you all an overview of what we usually get up to during our cultural orientation in South Korea. It’s been great to have teachers streaming in from all over the world again. With COVID restrictions dropping even more over the last few days, things are starting to feel a lot more like before. Our week kicked off on September, 25th.
cultural orientation in south korea
cultural orientation in south korea

Sunday: After their personal airport pick-ups leading up to the course, we met with the teachers on Sunday and headed over to the school for a short meeting to brief them on the program, give them a bunch of information as well as go over orientation week and the plan of the weeks to come. 

cultural orientation in south korea
cultural orientation in south korea
Monday: We started off the first day with an introduction presentation, followed by a detailed presentation on Korean food. After lunch, the teachers headed back to have a chat with the placement team, get our sim cards set up and then we headed to a Korean BBQ restaurant to try some famous Korean grilled meat! A great time was had and everyone took the chance to bond and get to know one another a little better! 
cultural orientation in south korea

Tuesday: Day 2 kicked off with our first of 3 Korean language lessons. These are split up into beginner classes, and a slightly more advanced class for those whose level is a little higher. We then had a presentation on Korean culture, as well as cultural “do’s and don’ts”. After lunch, we headed into Seoul for our first excursion of the week, which was a guided tour of the Korean war memorial. This is a great tour and really highlights the brutal and sad nature of the war, and how the split of the peninsula has torn this once unified country apart. The cultural orientation in South Korea is such a great opportunity for new teachers to learn about their new home (the good and bad). 

Wednesday: Once again we got the day going with our 2nd Korean language class for the week. We then had a visit from a local bank to help us get set up with bank accounts, debit cards with public transport functionality, direct remittance accounts, and our online mobile banking. This was followed by the fun Korean cooking class, hosted by the one and only Chef Hero! We headed home with full stomachs and a little more Korean language skills. 
cultural orientation in south korea
cultural orientation in south korea
cultural orientation in south korea
Thursday: We started the day with our final Korean lesson of the week. Great fun was had by all, and everyone was keen to try out their newly learned skills! We then had an important presentation on “Diversity in the Local Context”, helping teachers to adapt to one of the most homogeneous countries in the world. After lunch, we jumped on a bus and headed off to Taekwondo with Master Choi. It was great fun and a wonderful way to blow off some steam and get some exercise, before heading back home for the evening. 
Friday: Our final day, and the highlight of orientation week, is our excursion day where we travel to Seoul, immerse ourselves in the history and culture, and get to explore this awesome city. We started off by watching the changing of the guard ceremony at the grand palace, after which we headed off to a Hanbok cafe to get dressed up in traditional Korean clothing. We then headed back to the palace for a guided tour, lead by our expert tour guide for the day, Edward. It was a beautiful day, so after this, we headed to Insadong walking and shopping street and stopped off at a traditional Korean tea cafe for some refreshments. The last stop for the day was a tour of Bukchon Hanok Villiage, which is a famous spot in Korean dramas, and is over 600 years old! 
cultural orientation in south korea

“The honesty of the diversity talks is important and not sugar-coated which is always the right way to approach it. The cultural orientation in South Korea was so critical to settling in well while in the safety of a group and with guides who can set examples and answer questions.” – Current Participant

If you’re interested in joining us in the new year, fill out this quick form and set up a free call with our Team. 2023 is just around the corner!

 

The requirements for South Korea are a Bachelor’s Degree and a clean bill of health.

Also check out what life is like for one of our current teachers, Clare Haggerty.

cultural orientation in south korea

Guest Writer: Enzo, East Asia Programs Manager

Enzo is currently based on the ground in Seoul, South Korea. He taught in the South just outside Changwon for 3 years before deciding to help fellow teachers follow their dreams. When asked what his favourite food was, he said: Korean.

Teach English in South Korea: in-country TESOL relaunch!

Teach English in South Korea: in-country TESOL relaunch!

Teach English in South Korea: in-country TESOL relaunch!

teach english in south korea
teach english in south korea

If ever you’ve thought about living and working abroad, why not teach english in South Korea?

Soju, Kimchi, K-pop, Gimbap and Cosmetics are just a few things I fell in love with my first time there. Not only is it a fascinating place for tourists, but the home of Samsung also makes for an incredible teaching destination (even if you are team i-Phone).

With flight reimbursement, free accommodation, paid holidays and competitive salaries, it’s definitely a top choice for aspiring teachers. All you need is a Bachelor’s Degree in any field, a clear background check and a 120-hour internationally-accredited TESOL / TEFL Course. No TESOL? No Problem! That’s what we’re here for. XploreAsia is your one-stop-shop to getting certified and guaranteeing placement once you graduate.

teach english in south korea
teach english in south korea

After what felt like forever, our in-class TESOL Course is up and running again – better than before. With new accommodation, updated cultural orientation, and a young, inspiring instructor from South Africa, we are super excited to get newbies geared up and ready to educate young minds. 

해안이 보이지 않는 것을 이겨낼 용기가 없다면 절대로 바다를 건널 수 없다. 해안이 보이지 않는 것을 이겨낼 용기가 없다면 절대로 바다를 건널 수 없다.

“You can never cross the ocean until you have the
courage to lose sight of the shore.”
– Christopher columbus
teach english in south korea
teach english in south korea

Their ability to support me and provide any additional knowledge was amazing. Def. made the transition smoother. Can’t recommend enough.” – Daniel (Class of August, 2022)

For the July intake, our teachers filtered in over the weekend of the 22nd. By Sunday night (24th), everyone had settled into their guesthouses on Yeongjong Island. We gathered for a quick introductory meeting and got to know one another. The next week was a busy, but informative one filled with culture talks, language lessons, k-pop dance classes, walking tours, shopping at local markets and a visit to the palace.

Our cultural orientation is designed to help teachers understand the Korean culture and what being a teacher means. It gets them immersed right off the bat so life moving forward is not as overwhelming. At the end of this week, we have the much awaited welcome dinner – Korean Barbecue of course!

Once orientation is over, our 120-hour in-class TESOL begins. XploreAsia’s TESOL course provides essential instruction on the theories, strategies and techniques of teaching English as a second/foreign language. Our course also includes a strong cultural and linguistic foundation to prepare participants to teach and live in South Korea. In the final week, we also have practice teaching to completely prepare teachers for the real classrooms that await them. 

The teachers all work hard and learn so much in these 3 weeks. They are all motivated too since their jobs are already lined up before they left home. During the course, they master the skills needed to give a full-proof lesson, and in the final week, they even attend English camps where they get teaching practice. By the time they start working, they are more than ready for their placement. 

teach english in south korea
teach english in south korea

Amy, our latest and greatest TESOL instructor taught in South Korea herself and is incredibly excited to teach aspiring teachers how to thrive in their new careers.

From The Instructor:

“The July 2022 in-class TESOL group was a special one. Despite the challenges and intensity of the course, they all put their absolute best efforts and energy into it. Looking back, our classes were filled with humour, meaningful discussions, and a shared loved for children and teaching. It was amazing!” – Amy

lay

Written by Lay

Netflix-obsessed South African who loves travelling, blogging, good coffee and dogs. 

 

If you think South Korea is your next pitstop in life, contact me today by filling out this form! As long as you’ve got a degree, can commit to one year, and are in good physical and mental health, we’ll get you there. 

If not now, then when?

Ever considered teaching English abroad?

Find out more here:

www.xploreasia.org/apply-now

Life Abroad : Clare Haggerty. American in South Korea

Life Abroad : Clare Haggerty. American in South Korea

clare-haggerty

Clare has been in South Korea for just over six months now and based on our quick call, I can tell she is loving it. After her arrival in January, she did a quick 1-week quarantine in her own apartment and then it was off to work.  No doubt there have been ups and downs, but the experience is priceless.

Clare got a job in a Hagwon, which are private language centres in South Korea and her hours are 9am – 6pm, Monday through Friday. Hagwons tend to get a bad name for working longer hours, but Clare doesn’t think that’s completely true.

“I have friends who end later, but they’d just start later. It all has to balance out somewhere.” 

When it came to the apartment, she didn’t have to do anything except show up! It came with a bed, fridge and aircon. This part was a bit tough because she had to furnish the place herself, but that wasn’t completely unexpected. From my own experience in Japan, it’s very easy to find other teachers in Facebook groups who are leaving. Word travels fast, especially in smaller towns. You can either get things for super cheap or FREE. As Clare says, “With the foreign community, it’s all about paying it forward.” 

“Some of the logistical stuff was tricky in the beginning, but overall I’m happy to be here and teaching is better than I expected.”

She knows she is one of the lucky ones who got placed in Seoul – which means she’s never short of things to do on weekends. It is so well-connected internally that you’d never have to leave, but if ever you did, you can get anywhere in a matter of hours – perfect for weekends away, or even a day-trip. 

life abroad

“I don’t even think I use half my

pay-check – so much saving.”

The biggest adjustment working in South Korea are the limited holidays – we know this. Most teachers get one week off in July and at the end of December.

This may come as a shock to most people, especially since teachers are used to getting longer holidays in western countries. The truth is, in South Korea and Japan, the kids don’t get that much time off. They work really hard throughout. 

To prepare Clare for her new teaching job, we encouraged her to take our online TESOL course (recently this has become a requirement). As of July however, teachers can get qualified and take our TESOL course in-country! In our teachers’ final week, we even get them into actual classrooms to do practice teaching before the real work starts.  

Document-wise, everything went smoothly. There was a little running around toward the end, but nothing out of the ordinary. Due to COVID, everything was done digitally at the time which was a blessing in disguise. 

I had so much fun chatting with Clare. She is positive, hardworking teacher who loves traveling and exploring new places. Definitely felt a hint of FOMO while we were talking. If you’d like to see her full interview, head on over to our YouTube Channel. She also has her own blog which I follow! Such cool stories and photo’s to inspire any aspiring traveller. 

 Good Luck, Clare! 

Thank You. 

South Korea Cultural Orientation is BACK!

South Korea Cultural Orientation is BACK!

South Korea Cultural Orientation is BACK!

XploreAsia, along with Culture Route are super excited to bring back the South Korea Cultural Orientation trips. On June, 11th, we had the first one in more than two years and to be honest… it made us remember why we insist and provide them for every single applicant coming to teach here.  

“This course is such an amazing reminder why we came all this way.” – Kaitlyn, Teacher

Because our teachers have been tapering in separately over the past few months, they haven’t had a chance to meet one another yet. That’s what this past weekend gave them. The South Korea Cultural Orientation managed to jam-pack all the essentials in so new arrivals can get to know fellow teachers, as well as their new home away from home. 

south korea cultural orientation

Order of Events

Everyone trained or bused into Seoul after work on Friday. That first night, teachers were free to stay wherever they’d like. The following morning, the fun begins. Everyone meets at Gyeongbokgung Station at 8.45am. The first activity on the agenda is the Hanbok Cafe. Now don’t let the word “cafe” fool you. You won’t find any coffee here. Instead, The Seoul Hanbok Cafe is a place where visitors can rent beautiful hanbok, the traditional clothing of South Korea and have their photo taken. We, however, just get dressed up, then head on to the next location… The Gyeongbokgun Palace. We spend a few hours here strolling through the grounds, watching the change of the guards and taking as many photos as we can. It really is the epitome of Seoul and South Korea. 

We go back to the cafe around 12 to debrief and grab some lunch in the area. There is enough time to eat, and hang around for a while… just to catch your breath. The teachers need it after all that walking. No time to sleep though, because at 2.30pm, we’re off to Bukchon Village. This is a traditional Korean village in Seoul with a long history located on the top of a hill between Gyeongbok Palace, Changdeok Palace and Jongmyo Royal Shrine. The traditional village has many alleys and has been preserved to show a 600-year-old urban environment.

After that, around 4pm, we head to the pre-booked Guest House with everyone to freshen up, off load any shopping and check-in. 

I heard from Enzo, one of our program coordinators based in-country, that you know it’s a South Korean barbecue when there’s no place for your beer to go on the table. 

 

This is because Korea is known for its unnecessary amount of sides. We’re not complaining! It’s just such an arb experience to have the table filled with food before the meat has even arrived! 

south korea cultural orientation

The meal is always tasty, healthy and more than enough for you to leave happy!

south korea cultural orientation

After finishing up dinner (which usually takes 1 – 3 hours), the teachers are free to explore more of the Seoul nightlife. Sunday, they can check out anytime before ten and make their way home with the new friends, photos, and everlasting memories. Seoul has so much to offer and this trip is really just a teaser. We really can’t wait for the next one which is going to be on the 25th of June.

Want to know how you can join us next time?

Reach out to Lay and schedule a call NOW!

 

lay

Written by Lay

Netflix-obsessed, travel junkie whose life-long dream is to live in a house near the sea with no less than 3 dogs.

Would you like to join the next intake group?

Apply today.

www.xploreasia.org/apply-now

What Are Teaching Jobs in Korea Outside of Seoul Like?

What Are Teaching Jobs in Korea Outside of Seoul Like?

What is it like working teaching jobs in Korea... outside of Seoul? Read on to hear Roxie's experience!

“Korea is also a rapidly expanding country and new neighbourhoods are being built all the time. This means there are lots of opportunities and options in where you can live. There aren’t many chances in life to dive straight into the unknown, but people who travel get this all the time; don’t stick to places like Seoul that have lots of things that are familiar. Push yourself our of your comfort zone, as it’s the only way you can grow.”

In this recent series on our blog, we’re hearing from our teachers who have accepted jobs away from the hustle and bustle of tourist destinations. This time, Roxie, one of our former Marketing Coordinators shares their experience of teaching in Gimpo, South Korea.

Did you have a first choice of placement?

I was hoping to be in the capital, Seoul, or in another big city such as Busan or Daegu. However, I know that teaching jobs in Korea are highly competitive and it is very difficult to get your first position in these locations.

A picture of a meetup I found on social media for foreign coffee lovers. Social media is a great place to discover other foreigners living near you!
Many foreigners search for teaching jobs in Korea so it's easy to find people who speak your language to hang out with! Here we are in Itaewon

When you found out where you were going to be teaching, how did you feel about it?

I was happy to be in Gyeonggi-do as it’s so close to Incheon and Seoul, which are both great cities. I had only heard of the airport before, so I had no idea of what the place was like. I didn’t do too much research and went in with fresh eyes.

It wasn’t too challenging adjusting to life there. Having lived in different countries, I would say South Korea- unless you are right in the countryside- has quite a western-influenced lifestyle and it isn’t hard to find all the creature comforts of home. Gimpo perhaps isn’t the most exciting place, but it has all the shops and restaurants (and even a few bars) you need for weekly life. The location is great, so you can use your weekends to travel to different parts of the country.

What connections have you made in the local community?

It was difficult to make close friendships with Korean people due to the language barrier, but I did make friends through the other teachers at my school. One of my Korean co-workers even took me hiking one weekend. I also became familiar with staff at my favourite restaurants and cafes who remembered my orders and stuff. Little things like that can make you feel noticed in a country where it is easy to feel lost in a crowd.

The view from hiking on Gyeyang mountain in nearby Incheon
Hongdae is a popular hangout for young people- Koreans and foreigners- in Seoul
The cherry blossom season is really pretty in Korea! This photo courtesy of the Korea XA team

What challenges did you face living in this location?

To be honest, the location wasn’t a hindrance. There were lots of challenges related to teaching in a new country that I would’ve faced even if I’d lived in the centre of Seoul.

A common issue everywhere is that often teachers in Korea are placed into tiny studio apartments or offictels (tiny office spaces that are rented out as apartments) and it can be quite hard to make essentially a bedroom feel like an entire home. However, a few trips to the nearby Daiso can work wonders.

What’s your favourite thing about your placement town now?

Although I’ve now left Korea, I think I was lucky to live in such a comfortable place like Gimpo, and I wonder if the hecticness of Seoul might have got too much after a while. Sometimes it’s nice to have a simpler, more quiet place to call home than a large city. There were also lots of places to take a walk and you could easily get to the airport shopping mall which also has a big garden area. I’ve also heard tey also added a subway link fairly recently- thanks for waiting until I left, guys!- which means no more wobbling around on overpacked buses for Gimpo dwellers!

A street in Gimpo featuring beautiful fall colours. When people look for teaching jobs in Korea, they normally think of Seoul, but smaller towns have a lot to offer.
Another beautiful shot of cherry blossoms- I loved this season so much!

What would you tell people about the place you were living?

I would tell other people not to be too disappointed living outside of Seoul. Seoul is not the only place in South Korea, and neither is Busan. There are many places such as Suwon in Gyeonggi-do that are known for being cultural hubs and many smaller satellites of Seoul that offer lots of interesting things to do. As a new foreigner, you will likely find even the smallest details interesting and you can experience the culture everywhere, not only in the capital. Korea is also a rapidly expanding country and new neighbourhoods are being built all the time. This means there are lots of opportunities and options in where you can live. There aren’t many chances in life to dive straight into the unknown, but people who travel get this all the time; don’t stick to places like Seoul that have lots of things that are familiar. Push yourself our of your comfort zone, as it’s the only way you can grow.

What advice would you give to a teacher going to a town where there aren’t many foreigners?

I would recommend trying to bond with the teachers at your school- both foreign and native. I also joined a free language class (many Korean universities offer these for free as it’s good experience for their trainee teachers) and also a social group I found on Facebook. Social media and networking apps such as Bumble BFF can also be a good way to figure out who is in your area. Many people set off to teaching jobs in Korea without having previous experience living in the country, so there are lots of foreigners looking for friends. If you put yourself out there, you will find friends and connections wherever in the world you go!

Want to start your own journey teaching in South Korea? Check out our TESOL course that will give you all the skills you need to start your new chapter with confidence! For alumni and TESOL qualified teachers, we also offer placement support services in Korea, so contact us to find out more about teaching jobs in Korea- in big cities and otherwise. Catch up with our teachers across our network here:

Instagram

Facebook

And if you want to check out Roxie’s adventures, you can find her here.

Blog by Roxie Wong

Get Steph to Korea! Surviving Quarantine in South Korea

Get Steph to Korea! Surviving Quarantine in South Korea

Quarantine in South Korea

An XploreAsia Teacher Experience

What is Quarantine in South Korea Like?

As we adjust to the ‘New Normal’, teachers from all over the world are beginning to return to their schools overseas, and new teachers can begin their life-changing overseas teaching experience with XploreAsia! However, there are a few hurdles that need to be navigated.  One of the most common questions we get asked is, ‘What is quarantine like?’ Well, we will present first-hand accounts over the coming days and weeks, detailing the planning, arrival, and quarantine processes in South Korea, Myanmar, and Thailand to show you that it’s not so bad and can be done with minimal discomfort!

Today, we hear from Steph, from the UK, who writes about her experiences with quarantine in South Korea, where she arrived to teach English with XploreAsia.

Which Program were you on, and how did COVID-19 Impact your Experience?

I had the pleasure of joining the March intake of the Seoul in-class TESOL / TEFL course, run by the remarkable Kim Le Roux and glamorously assisted by her South African comrade, Enzo Forgiarini. I spent some time researching the different routes available to achieving the TESOL / TEFL qualification. It seemed like a much more sensible idea to invest in an ‘all-inclusive’ package that included work placement, accommodation, visa assistance, and of course, the training program.

It is here in my ‘Get Steph to Korea’ timeline that I’ll note that COVID-19 wasn’t even a twinkle on the landscape of the global health agenda. Even when about to leave the UK for Korea in February 2020, it was still largely isolated in China, and despite the geographical closeness of the two countries, I wasn’t about to let my desire to make this move across the world be tainted by what was, at the time, media-hyped speculation.

Stephanie Dagg's Quarantine in South Korea Experience

It seemed like a much more sensible idea to invest in an ‘all-inclusive’ package that included work placement, accommodation, visa assistance, and of course, the training program.

The course itself was intense. The work schedule was pretty demanding, I guess given the content we needed to cover and the limited time that we had to do it in. But Kim was for want of better words, bloody amazing. She was personable, approachable and always available to answer any of our concerns – whether related to the course, an emotional grievance related to our new lives, or just a friendly chat that encouraged normality. She made everything that could have been grueling fun and as COVID-19 began rearing its ugly head, she assumed the position of ‘Course Confidence-inducer’ (yes, I teach English), and we could deal with the worrying times with greater efficacy.

South Korea was one of the first countries outside of China to experience a surge in COVID-19 cases, owing mainly to the church-related outbreak in Daegu, and quite inconveniently, it happened at the same time that I was on the TESOL / TEFL course.

As our course progressed throughout March, we were given almost daily updates on the state of affairs in neighboring countries, and with that, our list of prospective countries to visit for a visa trip was severely contracting. In fact, it got to the day of our graduation and final decisions had not yet been made. At this point Japan had closed its borders, along with Taiwan, the Philippines, Hong Kong and Thailand. The only options we had were to either fly to Cambodia, or fly home. The rush of anxiety was debilitating, and after speaking to my sister in the UK, I felt the best choice was to do my visa trip to the UK and then fly back to quarantine in South Korea.

What Preparations did you Have to Make for Your Return?

I will skim quickly over the fortnight I spent back in the UK – but with the grace of whatever heavenly body, the Korean Embassy in London was able to turn my visa around in just one week, and I was able to quickly fly back to Korea. At the time, flights were rare, expensive, and stopping at more airports than a Chelsea girl on spring break. Maybe it was because I booked my flight with less than 24 hours to go before departure, but I rocked up at Heathrow Airport with a direct flight to Incheon and an extra-legroom seat with British Airways.

The journey to the airport, the flight back to Korea, and my arrival at Incheon to quarantine in South Korea are all part of one journey that I will never forget. The roads to Heathrow were empty. The M25 is notoriously a car park, but COVID had diminished the need for anyone to drive its highways. My dad was my on-duty chauffeur. Even this was a point of contention – no one wanted to be anywhere near the airport, let alone collect/drop off a person who had been on a flight in the past two weeks, or in a country with such (comparatively) close proximity to China. Nevertheless, father dearest took the job and I got to the airport. With no element of exaggeration, as far as I could see in terminal 2 was emptiness. All shops were closed, with the exception of Boots and WH Smith, where social distancing was implored. The only other people seemed to be the few who had held onto their jobs and those boarding my flight.

The flight was shockingly full – it felt almost as if that flight was part of the last-chance exodus out of the UK into Korea. I was placed in a middle seat between two people, though physical contact was avoided and my personal sanitizer was constantly within reach should our hands touch. 

Stephanie Dagg's Quarantine in South Korea Experience

The journey to the airport, the flight back to Korea, and my arrival at Incheon are all part of one journey that I will never forget.

Stephanie Dagg's Quarantine in South Korea Experience

What was Your Arrival Experience?

Arrival at Incheon was an endurance event. The different queues that we were guided through were endless. I had my phone number tested (luckily I had a Korean number from the course), and my ‘guardian’ as it were, was contacted to ensure that the address provided was legitimate I had been told prior to my arrival back to quarantine in South Korea that I would need to get tested at the airport, though I strolled through arrival area with no issue or guidance towards a testing facility. Here the games began.

I contacted the Korean speaking representative from the XploreAsia team, and within moments, my assigned sticker had changed color three times. When coming through customs, you were assigned a sticker based on country of origin, or whether you were a Korean Native. I was passed around among airport workers, the Korean Army, and men dressed head to toe in hazmat suits, before being escorted to the testing center. 

I was told to stand in the car park at Incheon Airport, armed with three brimming suitcases and suffering from severe sleep deprivation. To further challenge my sanity, I had a swab shoved in my mouth and so far up my nose, it was knocking on the door to my brain. With tears rolling down my cheeks, I was escorted by four more soldiers to the transfer bus headed to a quarantine facility.

I was moody, miserable, and extremely tired. At this point, I had been awake for around 22 hours and was ready to pass out any place I was left for more than ten minutes. After a few other people got on the bus, we headed off on a 90-minute bus ride. Once we arrived at the quarantine facility, I was met again by men in hazmat suits and armed with clipboards. I started to feel incredibly overwhelmed. As I waited for my turn to register, I noticed that the guys were handing out packages to those ahead of me. To my surprise, we were provided with a hot TGI Friday’s lunch, a box of towels, toiletries, and complete guidance in English as to what to expect over the next 24 hours. I got to my room and found that, though basic, it was perfect. Warm, clean, and with enough space for my entourage of luggage. I showered almost immediately, unraveled the Korean ‘mattress’, and curled up to rest. We were provided with another hot meal of fried chicken in the evening and breakfast time was announced in English over the speakerphone the next morning. At 11 AM, a woman came to my door and told me my COVID results were negative, and to expect to leave in an hour and a half. With that, I packed my things, organized my airport transportation, and headed to the transfer. Again, we were provided with food, from Lotteria nonetheless, and taken directly to the airport for our onward journey, which for me was to  Gyeonggi-do province, where I had a 14-day quarantine in South Korea, in my apartment provided by my school. The experience was emotional, but honestly, the Korean government was outstanding in their organization of the whole ordeal. It was comforting, safe, and quite importantly – free, so I know that despite the personal inconvenience, it could have been so much worse. 

Stephanie Dagg's Quarantine in South Korea Experience

When coming through customs, you were assigned a sticker based on country of origin, or whether you were a Korean Native. I was passed around among airport workers, the Korean Army, and men dressed head to toe in hazmat suits, before being escorted to the testing center. 

Stephanie Dagg's Quarantine in South Korea Experience

At 11AM, a woman came to my door and told me my COVID results were negative, and to expect to leave in an hour and a half. With that, I packed my things, organized my airport transportation, and headed to the transfer.

How About Quarantine in South Korea, What are the Conditions Like?

Stephanie Dagg's Quarantine in South Korea Experience

We were supported by a very accommodating school principal who was willing to get anything we needed in terms of food, crockery and anything that would make our experience more comfortable.

Mmm… so quarantine in South Korea. Quarantine…A three-syllable word that still makes my eyebrow twitch and skin turn an unhealthy shade of ashen-white. Firstly, it is fair to say that I was blessed to have secured a teaching position in Suwon, in the Gyeonggi-do province, so the transit from the airport wasn’t too long, and no public transport was required. This was a huge relief, given that those arriving at Incheon, who need for public transport, were siphoned into regional categories and held until there was available space to board the ‘foreign arrival’ carts.

I was also incredibly lucky to have been placed at a school with a girl (now a very good friend of mine) with whom I trained in Incheon. She had opted for the Cambodian visa trip and returned to Korea a few days earlier, and so was able to give me valuable insight into what was waiting for me at my apartment, and more importantly, what was not. (Bedding; bedding was not waiting for me.) 

We were supported by a very accommodating school principal who was willing to get anything we needed in terms of food, crockery, and anything that would make our experience more comfortable. I expected that there would be an absence of a lot of things and so brought with me my home comforts, however, I wasn’t about to pack a saucepan and bring it to Korea with me.

What are you Doing to Keep Yourself Busy During Your Quarantine in South Korea?

Stephanie Dagg's Quarantine in South Korea Experience

I was able to prepare slightly when I was back in the UK, bringing with me puzzle books, a yoga mat and resistance bands in the over-optimistic belief that the two weeks would see the renaissance of Stephanie as a fitness goddess and lean machine…

Stephanie Dagg's Quarantine in South Korea Experience

Once settled into my new surroundings, I was ready to accept the fate that was a fortnight of the same four walls. I was able to prepare slightly when I was back in the UK, bringing with me puzzle books, a yoga mat and resistance bands in the over-optimistic belief that the two weeks would see the renaissance of Stephanie as a fitness goddess and lean machine… The reality was that I managed one HIIT workout, nearly threw up, and decided it’d be best to hang up my resistance bands.

The side effects of quarantine in South Korea (twitch) included a disturbed sleeping pattern, over-reliance on social media, and a Netflix binge to end all others. The Netflix binge played into the disturbed sleeping pattern, where the concept of time was governed by the length of an episode, not the position of the sun – though the position of the sun made me realise I had stayed up for far too long or woken up far too late. The over-reliance on social media made the reality of how far from home I was even more real. Despite incessant scrolling, I missed my loved ones and I guess I started to feel a little bit lonely. 

Within the first week, the Suwon government dropped over a food kit, thermometers and sanitising spray/hand gel – all left at the door with a fleeting knock to avoid any interaction with the potentially virus-infected foreigner living inside. The schedule for twice daily temperature checks was strict, and if I missed a timeslot, my Director would politely remind me. If my temperature varied too much above 36.5, I’d be questioned.

After about ten days, I could feel the light at the end of the tunnel getting closer, I was getting excited again to leave the apartment and explore the city of which I was now a resident. I’d spent some of my time watching people out the window to remind myself that I was actually in Korea and shamelessly attracted to Korean guys. As the fortnight rolled to a close, I had already decided that I was going to spend the last few days readjusting my sleep schedule so that work wouldn’t be a complete nightmare (given my quarantine in South Korea ended at midnight on a Saturday night), and eat something more nutritious than spam and rice.

Looking Back on the Experience so far, have you Learned Anything From it?

My life in Korea is going very well! I have developed emotionally and psychologically in a way that I would never have been able to if I had stayed in my rat-race life back in London. My school is brilliant on the whole and I am really enjoying working for the first time in my life. There was a new outbreak of coronavirus in the Itaewon area of Seoul and foreigner-fear meant that we were not allowed to work until we were tested (my second experience was probably worse than the first), but our Director paid for the test and even took us personally. There are horror stories about other hagwons’ treatment of foreigners during this time, but I feel pretty lucky with how my school handled it (despite the INCREDIBLE annoyance at how prejudiced the fact we even had to get tested was).

I intend on being here long term, learning the language and exploring other options in education and elsewhere whilst I am here. I’ll never forget my experience with, and the memories made on, my XploreAsia course, or the wisdom imparted by Kim during that time. I hope that with time I will turn out to be half the influencer that she is. 

Lucy Frobisher's Quarantine in Thailand Experience - Looking Forward to Seeing These Guys!

Written by Stephanie Dagg. 

Teach in Asia: Becoming Part of the Local Community

Teach in Asia: Becoming Part of the Local Community

Teach in Asia and immerse yourself in the community!

Moving to a new continent can be a tricky transition. Despite different languages and cultures, kindness knows no barriers and we’re excited to share our TESOL students’ stories of their first interactions with locals.

Coming to teach in Asia can be daunting. Lots of people worry whether they will fit into their communities despite language and cultural barriers. In this blog post, our TESOL students in Thailand, South Korea and Vietnam share their stories of heartwarming interactions in their communities.

1. Sam in Thailand: “Food unites people here”

Openness is not something we’re used to from strangers in America. However, humility and openness seem to be defining characteristics of many people in Thailand. Whether they are a street-food vendor or an employee at the local 7-11, a Buddhist Monk or a songthaew driver, I feel as though I’m constantly greeted with a smile from the person across from me, as if I am meeting eyes with a friend. And so went my first interaction with Daang. As I approached his humble restaurant, he hastily produced a menu for me and motioned to a table with a view of the street. Entirely unsure of the type of food offered at this eatery, I hesitated before taking a seat on the small stool he had chosen for me. I decided to put aside any predispositions and simply find something on the menu that I might like.

To make things more difficult, the entire menu at Daang’s restaurant was in Thai. Rather than choose to leave or simply ask for ‘pad thai?’ with hands raised akimbo in the position of a clueless tourist, I stumbled my way through a conversation that led to Daang preparing me whatever he selected. As I watched Daang shuffle seamlessly back and forth across the kitchen, I was immediately impressed by the skill and efficiency of every maneuver. Daang clearly gave each ingredient respect and care. Daang’s cooking represented poetry in motion.

Sam Daniels came to teach in Asia just after the new year and started a culinary adventure!

Not only did he genuinely care about the experience I had in his restaurant, he also seemed proud that I would choose to eat there. Afterwards, we shook hands with the agreement that I would be back the following day for dinner. As I walked home, belly full and a smile on my face, I was reminded of an Anthony Bourdain quote from his first book Kitchen Confidential, which reads: “Good food is very often, even most often, very simple.” Nothing could be more apt in describing this and the subsequent meals I would enjoy at Daang’s restaurant.

The next evening, the scene before me was different from the day before. Whereas I enjoyed a simple dish of noodles and pork then, this evening consisted of several large fish roasted over an open flame, and a table full of Daang’s relatives and friends. Daang introduced me around the table several times; it only validated what we’d learned during our Thai culture lessons during orientation week: food unites people here. If this experience has confirmed anything, it is my belief in the value of winging it. Letting these happy accidents occur is what so many over-organised tourist trips to other countries miss — I’m very grateful to have met Daang and enjoy his food as well as his company.

2. Cam B in South Korea: “The friendliness was contagious”

During my second week of my TESOL course in Korea, I met a man named JunHyuk, AKA Simon, at a gym. Back in New Zealand, I was a competitive power-lifter and I am very focused on maintaining my fitness whilst I teach in Asia. Typically in New Zealand, people don’t interact much while training. However, while I was bench pressing, Simon came up to me and asked me to give him advice and help to train him to get stronger.

Cameron came from New Zealand to teach in Asia and found a local gym buddy in Incheon, South Korea.

At first, I was hesitant so I politely told him when I would be back and assumed he wouldn’t follow up. To my surprise, the next day he was in the gym waiting and immediately came up to greet me with a friendly smile and was ready to begin training. I ran him through a beginner power-lifting routine and helped him practice the correct form whilst also helping him take notes to help him become stronger. He was so thankful and willing to learn; the friendliness was contagious and I was happy all day knowing that I will be able to integrate into and enjoy the culture while I’m in South Korea. After we had finished he asked if we could meet again the next Saturday and bring a couple of friends with him.

Although I didn’t feel comfortable training his friends, I have continued to meet up with Simon, helping him improve and work towards his strength goals.

Simon has also begun to help me understand Korean language and customs much better through frequent interactions. Recently, we went out as a small group for a meal and had a very fun time in a different setting and talking about life. When I do find myself back in Incheon or Seoul, I would like to make time to see Simon again. What I have enjoyed most about meeting and getting to know Simon is that I have been able to help a local achieve something rather than simply being part of a language exchange. I have loved learning about the culture through someone who has lived in it their entire life. I now understand that the best way to learn about Korean culture is through meeting new people and learning first hand. I’m looking forward to meeting more locals and learning from them whilst I teach in Asia.

3. Cameron H in Vietnam: “The quest for power”

I decided to go to a café with my laptop to hole myself away until my lesson planning was done. My laptop is ailing and decrepit and it always needs to be plugged in in order to work. I had heard tell of a local café that had plug sockets, free Wi-Fi and reasonably priced coffee. I went early in the morning and nested in the corner beside one of the few functioning sockets. Slowly but surely, I plodded through my assignments, under frequent glances of some amused locals at my makeshift study camp. I assumed they felt some pity as I was there for many hours sat alone forcing myself to wade through cheesy children’s music to find the right song for a lesson plan.

Suddenly the power cut out – and my laptop switched off. My stomach dropped. I prayed to the technology overlords that my work had been saved. Other people may have taken this as a sign I should move, see some sunlight, and take a break… I felt more motivation than ever to stay until my work was done. I packed up my bags, stood up from my chair, and began to seek a new socket. The quest for power had begun.

Many countries in Asia have a big coffee culture and you're sure to find lots of places to relax whilst preparing for your classes.

I scanned the entire café trying to find a new socket. There were some sockets on the floor, but they were too loose to function. There were some multi-use sockets being shared by others, but there was not enough room for my comically large travel adaptor. I stretched above other peoples’ tables to try and use a couple of spare ones, but the lead was too short to reach the nearest free table. The entire time I was getting in everyone’s way, carrying a bag, books and an open laptop around, and moving chairs to see if there were more sockets on the floor. It’s safe to say the locals’ glances had turned into some outright stares, some giggling and some straight-up laughter.

Eventually, I deemed my mission a failure. I sat at an empty table and began to gather my things to leave. At this moment, a pair of Vietnamese men came over and plucked my laptop out of my hands. For a second I thought I may be the victim of the most brazen robbery in history. They spoke very little English so we combined languages with a lot of mime.

The pair split off, one heading in search for any sockets that I may have missed. In the meantime, his friend inquired about what I was doing by pointing at my books. I was able to respond in Vietnamese that I am a teacher, and his face lit up. I then said that I had moved from the UK to teach in Asia and proceeded to use up the few Vietnamese sentences I knew before I ran dry and we resorted back to mime. At this point, his friend returned and gave me a shrug as if to say he had done what he could.

The guy I had been speaking to then went over to where a group of people were sharing a multi-use socket and started asking other locals if anyone had enough charge to let me take one of their places.

Teach in Asia and explore the ecclectic city of Hanoi!

My British sensibilities caused me to be consumed with embarrassment at being the centre of attention and putting out a stranger at the same time. Yet this caused a ripple of conversation where other locals started chatting both to the two men and to me. Not only did someone give up a socket for me, but I was then sat at a table where I had inadvertently caused strangers to talk like old friends. There was a local woman who spoke English and we were able to have more of a chat about Vietnam. I inquired about where she was from – Ho Chi Minh City – and asked about her life. In the end, fate had forced me to take a break away from my work. My quest for power was successful due to the abounding friendliness and helpfulness of the locals. Now my work is finished, I just need to improve my Vietnamese – and get a better computer!

Teach in Asia with XploreAsia!

Do you want to start your own adventure and teach in Asia? We have in-country TESOL courses in Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea and Myanmar. We also offer teacher placement in China and are excited to soon be opening a TESOL and placement package in Costa Rica, Central America!

Catch up with our global family of teachers through Instagram and Facebook and share your stories of cultural immersion in the comments!

Tips for Teachers Working Abroad for the First Time

Tips for Teachers Working Abroad for the First Time

Do's and Don'ts for New ESL Teachers

Nervous about starting your first job as an ESL teacher? Read some top tips from our TESOL instructor.

Hello! My name is CJ Lewis, a TESOL Instructor with XploreAsia. As we welcome a new group of TESOL students to Hua Hin, I thought I would highlight some Do’s and Don’ts for new teachers heading abroad for the first time. Here are my top tips for teachers new to the field of ESL.

First, the Do's!

Here are some tips for teachers looking to make their new lives abroad much easier.
  1. DO arrive to school early. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday. Yes, that’s every day. It really shows the school staff that you take your job seriously and they will respect you for that.

2. DO dress for success. You know what they say, clothes make the man/woman. It will give you confidence, show the students that you are a professional teacher, and show the staff that you are ready to go. It’s a win-win for everyone.

3. DO bring a small gift for the principal of your school. It builds rapport, shows appreciation and its just fun to do.

Do you have any other tips for teachers? Let us know in the comments!
CJ's advice this month includes to dress for success.

I have given baseballs, fruit, energy drinks, even a Lebron James jersey (for a principal who REALLY liked Basketball) and it really made the year a smooth one from an administrative standpoint. Plus, some became friends for life.

One of CJ's tips for teachers is to try to learn the native language so you can bond with locals.
Explore the markets to find bargains and make new friends.

4. DO explore the day/night markets. You never know who you will meet, what you will buy, what you will eat, what music will play. Always a fun experience each and every time you go. No matter which country.

5. DO have an understanding of the native language. When out and about, if you try your best to speak their language, the locals will appreciate it. You don’t have to be fluent, but the if you know some vocab it will help locals to get to know you better. There’s a ton of apps out there to help you learn a new language in a fun way. Don’t be shy, give it a try!

Next, the Don'ts!

Here are some things to avoid if you want to make a good start teaching abroad.

1. DON’T be late. Ever. I mean it. Of course, things can happen. Everything is different and new in the country you have been placed. Buses are late, scooters run out of gas, routes get forgotten. Plan for it, make it a goal to always get to work on time and avoid distractions.

2. DON’T just stand in front of the class and give instructions. I like to tell students that the front of the room is “lava” and if they stay in one place for too long they will burn their feet. Move around! Get the students to talk, ask questions. Just don’t stay put. Be active

Do you have any more top tips for teachers? Share some advice in the comments!
Top tips for teachers: staying active can particularly help to keep the engagement of young learners.

3. DON’T speak too fast. This is one of the most important tips for teachers who are not used to teaching ESL. When we’re around our peers, friends, and family, we tend to speak pretty fast. They are native English speakers and they understand what we are saying. That is not the case when you are teaching ESL. You must pace yourself, enunciate, and take your time to convey understanding. It will take patience, practice and experience.

Another of CJ's tips for teachers is not to neglect your social life. Try to grasp every opportunity whilst teaching hing abroad.
You'll always have your XA family to lean on. Don't be afraid to contact us for advice.

4. DON’T say no to a wrong answer or an invite, DON’T say I cant to an opportunity. Be a Yes man! Get out there and see what opportunities your town can offer when given the chance! I never thought I would be into scuba diving and now I go almost every weekend, because of an invite.

5. DON’T become discouraged when things aren’t working. Lean on your new friends, vent to your family back home (Skype!), chat with your favorite street market vendor, and of course, the XploreAsia team are always here to help! Drop us a line if you ever need a helping hand.

To learn more about our programs, head over to our website. To see updates from teachers we’ve already helped find amazing new adventures, follow our Instagram and Facebook pages.