I know from experience that when you first start thinking about coming to Korea to teach English, it can be a bit overwhelming and confusing. Watching all the videos, reading all the blogs builds up the anticipation and excitement of this endeavor. On top of all that, there is a huge void of how to really get started, what you need to do, when to do it – basically how to get the job teaching in Korea.
I honestly think that I would hold the title for having watched the most videos and read the most blogs during the whole time from when I decided to when I actually got here. When I arrived I started blogging and vlogging and I received many questions about the application process and what to expect through it all. I made a few videos and responded to many emails to try and answer questions as they came in, but I couldn’t really answer them all. I finally decided to do this video detailing the process from start to finish, explaining the required documentation and how to get it. It’s very cut and dried. I don’t overly detail everything, it’s more of an outline and a timeline for the process of getting the job. It could be a whole lot longer for sure if each point was discussed, but that wouldn’t be useful. Each experience will be different, but everyone still needs the same documents.
When preparing for this video, I made an outline of the process based on both my experience and the information contained in my application packet from my recruiter. I’ve inserted the outline below for your reference. I really hope it’s helpful to anyone interested in getting a job to teach English in Korea.
How to Get a Job Teaching English in Korea
Can you please let us know exactly which IRS form you used to claim the IRS Residency Verfication or can you explain this — how it works. I'm applying now and having looked online, I see many different forms that might apply to this situation after googling it. Thanks.
I love you site and you tube videos! However, I have a question, I am in the process of applying for jobs, but I am curious about the TAX part. If I plan to teach longer than a year in Korea, am I expected to pay taxes in Korea and in the US?
Stephanie
Thank you. For US citizens, you are exempt from paying taxes in both Korea and the US. You will, however, need to file a tax form in the US each year even though you won’t be paying taxes.
Hi, my husband and I are very interested in working in Korea as ESL teachers. But I think our situation might be a little unique.
I have a 4 year bachelors degree while my husband only has some college courses under his belt. The twist is that he is half-Korean and has heard from his Korean mother that it is possible to teach english in Korea without a degree. It might be entirely possible that her information is outdated, but would it be possible if he acquired a TESOL certificate and applied to work at a private school, he would be considered?
Hi. Things are really changing rapidly not only in Korea but in ESL around the world. Quickly vanishing are the days where one could teach without a degree. At least, teach in a legitimate capacity. Korea is particularly stringent about this. My advice would be to be very careful of anyone looking to hire without a degree because it is actually against the law. That is, to receive a visa for teaching it is my understanding that a bachelor’s degree is mandatory. You can look into it some more, but your best bet is to knock out the degree first so you’ll have smooth sailing.
Just wondering, I have a Bachelor’s degree in English and a specialization in Professional Writing. I would like to get either a TEFL or a TESOL but I’m now sure about the difference or if one if valued more over the other. Are there any places you would recommend getting either certification?
I used ITTT. Under my “Getting Certified” tab I talk more about it.