Thanks for all the information, I want to teach in Public School, either Junior High or High School. I read you don't have to actually speak Korean, is that true or not? I'm learning it, slowly, anyway - but it's always good to know.
Wow! Thanks SOOO much for posting this video! I'm trying to get all of my paperwork done on time to head over there in September, but the problem is that I don't get my B.A. until August, so I was told that I might have to go to Japan to finish the work visa... That made me really nervous, but since you mentioned it in such a positive way, it made me feel much better. :)
ooooohhhh boy! Did you teach at Wonderland Hwajung your first year? Now I'm nervous, haha, with that face you made! and the "blacklisted" thing?! what's that mean???? What was so bad about it?? I guess I'll learn the hard way like you did. Ah well. It'll be like "teach eng. in korea" boot camp, and I'll be able to do anything after. . . . .right? would you say your experience was something like that??? hahaha
I might be leaving for Incheon within the next month. More nervous about the simple task of teaching English to children in general than living in a foreign land!
I really want to spend the summer teaching in Korea but Im having trouble finding a short term teaching job, 3 months or less. Is it possible to get a working visa in South Korea without agreeing to a 1 year teaching contract?
hi there,.thanks for the very nice information,.I'm a teacher here at the Philippines and I really wanted to teach at Korea,there's a lot of fraudulent agencies here at my country giving false hope of jobs outside of the country,.thats why I'm reluctant to try agencies,.
Could you please post the agencies or the online address or website of the school or language school which you have already tried to and reliable...thanks
@jerobrigado1 My understanding from reading things is that it is best to go to Korea and investigate the schools you are interested in before you sign a contract. It seems that contracts signed outside of Korea are not binding IN Korea. It is not that far of a trip for you. For me it is a long flight from the Pacific Northwest of North America.
hi there,.thanks for the very nice information,.I'm a teacher here at the Philippines and I really wanted to teach at Korea,there's a lot of fraudulent agencies here at my country giving false hope of jobs outside of the country,.thats why I'm reluctant to try agencies,.
Could you please post the agencies or the online address or website of the school or language school which you have already tried to and reliable...thanks
Hi, Thanks for the information. I will be teaching at an international school there soon. I noticed your hat and thought I would tell you that I was the ESL teacher for the Spanish players on the Cleveland Indians for two seasons.
Nice relaxed presentation! Q- I am American guy and soon to go over to S. Korea in which ESL school offer I think is better. Listen- I have a Philippino fiancee back in Manila Philippines.- Q- Can I 'invite her' over to Korea as I will then have a working visa? Also, will my school permit me to have her live with me- we may even try to get married in Korea! Appreciate what experience you have on this!
Thanks for the info. I notice there are many ads online for teaching in South Korea. I interviewed with an Agency name Aclipse. Do you anything about Aclipse? Is it best to use an Agency to find jobs. Also Ive heard many people say that Koreans can be a bit racist to outsiders. Do you think this is true? Also would you recommend getting a TEFL certification before going? Thanks again
I taught english at a esl school owned by koreans. They cheated me and just about every other teacher. They were such hypocrites, dishonest and sneaky. Now i know why the Japanese always beat them in everything.
@kellystone84 just because one place cheated you, doesn't mean you can diss the entire race. I know that being cheated must have been a horrible experience, but you just can't lash out your anger at everybody. I'm sorry that they didn't treat you properly, but sometimes you just gotta pick a right place with the right people
@kellystone84 just because one place cheated you, doesn't mean you can diss the entire race. I know that being cheated must have been a horrible experience, but you just can't lash out your anger at everybody. I'm sorry that they didn't treat you properly, but sometimes you just gotta pick a right place with the right people
Thank you so much! Do you recommend teaching at a hakwon before public school? Is college GPA looked at during hiring process, if so do you think below-3.0 gpa can be overlooked if from a good college? If I have no experience teaching, what do you do do prepare lesson plans?, is training offered?
@phantomwaltz I have a few friends teaching with me in Seoul who had GPAslower than 2.8. I'm sure you can get a job with your GPA as long as you have the degree.
Thank you so much! Do you recommend teaching at a hakwon before public school? Is college GPA looked at during hiring process, if so do you think below-3.0 gpa can be overlooked if from a good college? If I have no experience teaching, what do you do do prepare lesson plans?, is training offered? And most importantly, I'm a naturally shy person who's horrible at public speaking, but for some reason I really want to do this, is this something that can be overcome through experience?
Thank you so much! I want to teach at a public school in Seoul, but I know those positions are hard to come by, so I'm planning to look into hakwons first. I do have a question though. I'm a really shy person and always had trouble speaking in front of a group, but do you think this is something I can overcome? Also I've never taught before, so I'm worried I won't know what to do, is this something you learn through experience? Lastly, is college GPA looked at during hiring process?
It's hard to know exactly who to trust and when to jump in terms of job offers. I am currently trying to find something reputable in Korea. Do you know anything about CIS- Daegu (they call themselves Canada Int. School, but from what I understand they're not a "real" International school). Any info would be very helpful! Also, just wondering why Kindergartens are the hardest...I guess I'm equating the experience to teaching Kindergarten in Canada, maybe it's not all that similar...
I'm a Haitian-American poet teaching English in Jeju, South Korea. Its absolutely amazing. Kevin is absolutely on point with everything. Whatever your interest are, once you get here...you'll realize that the purpose will manifest itself. DO YOUR RESEARCH! Thanks Kevin, keep them coming. Onelove!
Can a korean teach english in Korea? I was born in America, and I just want to know if an American-born korean has a chance to teach in Korea? I heard it's hard to.
@WonderfulMrShyne Yeah. These days especially it is becoming more popular. Seoul is a great place to start. Try to find a network of American or Canadian-born Koreans to speak to. A few friends of mine work for CIS in Seoul. Try there. Even Berlitz may be a good place to start. Once you are here it would be easier to find out how you could make better cash. Good luck.
Thanks so much for your video! It answered a lot of questions I had. I hope to teach in Korea after I I get my master's degree, but I'm studying abroad there this coming summer. I really appreciate your help!
Hello, Thanks for taking your time to make these clips. This is my first video I've seen from you, and I want to ask a question regarding the work visa.I'm currently in my first year first semester of college but I want to travel to Korea to make money after April 2010 until December 2010. I don't have a University degree have you heard of people working without one? Is it possible to work legally without one?
I'm thinking about teaching ESL in Korea in 2 or 3 years. I visited a friend last year who is currently teaching in Seoul and I've been thinking a lot lately about teaching there.
My question is this: what is the average age of ESL teachers there? When I visited I got the impression that most of the teachers were in their mid 20s. I would probably be in my early 30s when I started. Is that normal? Or is it geared towards younger people fresh out of college? Thanks!
Thank you for the info. I'm planning on getting my CELTA this summer. I'm a little concerned since I've read the best time to apply is the spring and it will be too late once I return from my training to apply for schools starting in September. Do you think it's possible/worthwhile to send my information to them before I have actually completed my CELTA just to show my interest in jobs there?
I was just wondering... I'm Half French and Hmong (Asian) live and born in United State... do you think they will hired a person who's asian, because I haven't heard a lot of foreigner who is asian work in korea? And also, I already know that you have to have a degree from a 4 year college, but do you think they will hire someone who have a AA degree by any chance?
Hey! Thanks for clarifying some our most troubling (and common) questions! I was wondering though, are there any resources we could use to narrow down reputable recruiters? Or at least some red flags we should be on the look out for during our job-searching process? Also, would you say the EPIK program is a safe bet if it is our first time teaching in Korea? Thanks in advance for any comments!
Hey BusanKevin, my mom is a teacher and is looking into going to south korea to teach for profit and for the adventure. We are all very excited to go for about a year or so, but she said when she was talking to a company, they would only "sponsor" her and not the whole family. Know of anything we can do or any companies that will do this? thanks
Sounds like your mother applied for a job at a language school. The would normally never sponsor a family. If she is a teacher wherever you are from, she should apply to a proper international school. There are many in Seoul. This is the hiring season though. Google some, go to the employment section and then she needs to send her resume in asap. They normally do all their recruiting of teachers in january and Feb. Those schools normally have packages for families!
Ah thank you so much, we both appreciate it. hopefully we will be going in the next few months. If we run into any problems i may message you for help though. much thanks!
Busan is the best! lol. Im glad this guy takes an objective approach. Please keep it up! Anyway if you are considering teaching in the Orient be mentally prepared. 1) Little land and resources, so some of us are a little rude and very competitive. deal with it. 2) throw away your 'private space' crap, especially koreans like to hang out together. Its a different culture. 3) There are stereotypes just because we dont get to see a lot of you guys/ Still there are good people and new experiences.
Thank you so much for these videos. It is far more information that I had ever imagined. It was just something that I had recently started to consider, but had no idea of the process that it would take. Thank you so much.
Always expect last minute changes, a lack of interest in your work and being there, and for them to become vindictive should you complete a contract. Contracts mean little; your relationships mean everything and you do have to remind them more than once to pay you or that something else important needs attention. I found Koreans who want friendship with you is only for the convenience of you spewing out free English and western related knowledge. They don't like us, but want our knowledge.
I'm planning to do an exchange to Korea and I was wondering if Korean restaurants are normally very accomodating to people with allergies ( I have seafood allergies).
@SpassMacher2000 It's extremely easy to meet other teachers, especially in larger cities. The social scene is a lot like first-year college or uni, but with money. Party Central!
Did you meet many African American teachers? I'm having a difficult time getting a job and I'm starting to feel it's because I'm black. Several jobs have denied me stating the school prefers a Caucasian female.
wow...seriously....i am also an african american and i would like to go there....maybe we can be in this thing 2 gether....i have an african american frend who is already there and she works at a hagkwon.....i hope that they are not discriminate towards us with the brown skin....it pisses me off to think that the media has created this stigma that the african americans are unitelligent...thats isnt true....hit me back though...
@jadama27 honestly speaking, there is a little racial discrimination in korea that remains, but if you go to hagkwon, they don't discriminate you because of your skin. I teach English at Chungdam Academy in S,Korea, i'm part african but i'm not having any problems. But, sometime when I walk down Seoul downtown, people look bug-eyed at u which used to irritate me, but now it makes me feel special :)
Try working for GEPIK or SMOE. They don't discriminate based on race. You'd be teaching in the public school system. Hagwons (private academies) do discriminate and are usually terrible places to work.
The "good days" of teaching English in Korea have gone long ago...It was pretty much over by the time I got there in 1994. The huge salaries, great treatment, and the amazing trust that employers granted English instructors had already been replaced with very savvy (and legally vague) 'employment contracts', low academic support, and lots of silly rules.
Having said that, I was also surprised to see that most instructors were not TESOL majors, and many did not take their jobs seriously.
I've been watching basically all your videos. I'm about to graduate UCI and want to experience it, all the mistakes too. Which recruiter company would you recommend?
Hey, great info. I have been considering teaching in Korea or Japan, but I'm so skeptical about certain schools and the process. Do you have any info on university jobs? I will be getting my masters in March and have 3 years of teaching experience (actually teaching English in an innercity school) Thanks for your help.
cool...I've taught at inner city schools back home too....Korea is a cake-walk in comparison.
Chekc out a podcast called the "midnightrunner".....he did an episode about teaching at universities in Korea. Just google it. )I personally have never worked at a university)
Hey Kevin. Great post! I would like to just add that the Korean won has plummeted to the lowest point that I've seen since I started working in Korea, It's getting much harder to make decent wages there nowadays without having to work your ass off, or teach private lessons..(2million won= 1,766.72 CD$, 1,600 US$.) As far as the cost of living is concerned, I think that it has now evened out to be very similar to that of Canada's. It all depends on how you choose to live once you are in Korea.
I am thinking about teaching ESL in Korea, not sure what city I should go to. Seoul is big but Busan looks nicer and more charming. Have you heard of recruiters by the name of Park English or RBI Korea. These are the two agencies that I have been working with. Some of you videos scare me and think I should not do it. Others seem promising. What to do? :)
I think you should totally go for it! Going to Korea was a great move for me. I had some problems, but the good far outweighed the bad! That's why I lived there for more than 5 years!
As for specific recruiters, I don't really know anything. There are a lot. I'd avoid hagwons though...public schools would probably be the most secure jobs!
yes, Kevin's right. I've been working at a public school in Busan. It's pretty good for foreigners to work...I mean..public schools guarantee your occupation~althougth it's one year or two year contract...It's a pretty decent job! I'm telling you. And I've heard there's a kind or english proficiency test for hiring EFL teacher just like you~you should check it first ~Good luck, man.
So far....big differences....Japan is far more expensive than Korea, but I tend to feel it is more foreigner friendly. The Japanese are more comfortable with non-Japanese living here.
hey i was thinking of either teaching english in japan or korea. i will have a humanity master's degree, and if it is as you say that these positions are the best to get generally, how would one go about applying for one? thanks
WOW! Thanks! I've been looking at teaching in south Korea, It's mid July now, Do you think I would have a chance at being hired ans starting in August? Do they really need teachers that bad, because I see numerous wesites looking for teachers? What were your utility bills, house phone/cell phone bills like?
Apparently no....they test for other drugs....but....if you're planning on heading there....lay off the pot....and when you're there.....don't think about ever doing it....you'll be SCREWED if you're ever caught!
Pretty sure you need a 4 year Bachelor's degree, but i could be wrong. Contact a recruiter...they can tell you more. Things have changed since my days in Korea (with regards to visas).
I was wondering if you've heard of a hagwon called Avalon. I just interviewed with them today and I'm in the process of waiting and getting all my forms together. Any feedback would be awesome.
Hey Kevin, thanks for sharing your insight with us. I'm actually in the process of interviewing with recruiters right now. For recent college grads with no teaching license/experience, what's the highest paying position available and how much do you think I can expect to make?
hey kevin, have you heard of BeMy & Co.? The guy's name is Ken that runs it. I am interested in using him as an agent, but i just want to see some feedback first.
Thanks For the info Kevin, very helpful!! I just got hired at a hagwon in gangju called tn english. I'm leaving in a month and a half. Any advice or information about the school or location? I would really appreciate it.
Hey Kevin! thanks for all your advice. It was very helpful. Have you heard anything about the recruiters Gone2Korea or TeachESLKorea? Do you know any websites where I could post something and find out if they are legit? One of the recruiters says I need to send my college diploma to my school in korea. Does this seem legit to you? Cuz it sounds absolutely crazy to me!Thanks for your time.
Don't know anything about recruiters. There are so many.
It's normal to have to send your diploma. They have to verify it's real. They'll also have to send it to Korean immigration in order to get your work visa. They do the same thing here in Japan. You need a degree to get an E2 visa and they won't just take your word for it. No worries. You'll get it back!
so I got an offer today in the Chung Dahm Learning school. Have you heard it of it? Also is it common for Korea to ask for the original copy of your bachelor's degree?
I know that place well. I was a Head Teacher at two branches a few years ago. I had a very good experience with the company. I also made very good money.
It is perfectly normal to give them your original degree. You must in order to get a working visa. Same here in Japan. They give it to immigration. You'll get it back once your visa is approved.
Thanks for the great advice I appreciate it. I'm getting an interview next week for a school in Yongin. I will be finding out what school it actually is pretty soon and will check it out via the forums you suggested. However, the place Yongin seems ok from what I've seen of random webpages and youtube videos. Do you know Yongin? Your input on this place would be cool.
Hi BusanKevin. Thank you for this important information. I have gotten a lot of e-mails and calls from recruiters for jobs in both the public and private sector. Although I'm caught in a pleasant dilemma, I want to make the right choice. My concern is the contract. I don't want to sign anything I'm not comfortable with. Your advice helps. I have both a degree and TEFL Certificate. Is there any unscrupulous vocabulary I should be cautious about when I read the contract?
Yup! return airfare and fully furnished free accommodation will be provided for every ESL job in Korea. I think I can help anyone who needs help to know those ESL jobs in Korea. Coz thats what am doing here ^^* contact me.
you know dat?? I am korean and I am lerarning from ESL what he's talking about we usually say institute or shcool teacher or whatever. I know dat some english people are coming to korea to teach english. But when you teach grade 7 or something like that it can be hard because they sometimes tease the teaching, it's so dumb. .. so it would be not good .. lol ..
uhmm do they have any preference with ethnicity? because i am thinking they would prefer white over an asian[myself, am a tibetan] do you this would be true?
I'm from Berlin and now live in Korea, Daegu city. Korean called Seoul to "Republic of Seoul" haha. (my korean friends usually speak 'bout it) in Seoul's prices, consumption tendencies and their conceptions are different from other places.
I am from Ohio (I noticed the Indians cap :o)) and am currently teaching English in Barcelona, Spain and considering Korea for next year. One question I have is how was the culture shock at first? I know here in BCN it was kinda big at first, but it can't be as big as Korea. Was it difficult to adjust? How often do you get to go home? And, if you are to get a visa before going, how long is that process and how long in advance should I be applying? Any advice would be great. Thanks!
I was just contacted by a recruiter. I am 41 years old with a family. My family is okay with me going. I have a Masters Degree from an accredited institution. What are some of the questions I can ask her? Do you have any advice for me.
You're 41 and have a family? My opinion is that teaching English in Korea is a young man's/woman's game or for SINGLE older people. I did this when I was 24 to 27 years old. I can't imagine leaving my spouse/family nowadays to do this at my age (around your age). It's also just such a hassle to deal with the BS involved. Work for a well-established company like YBM (ELS), and you won't get screwed. Yes, getting NOT PAID and other things like that are a problem for English teachers in Korea
I guess that use to happen to the youth, this man can get a good contrct, he holds a master, so he can work for an university...try SIR! but don;t leave your family...bring them here...if you don;t have the money for bringginf them, with your first or second salary you can pay the tickets even for the grand ma!
Hi! Sir I do not recommend you to come here, but in case, you are able to bring your family here. your employer will provide you an apartment just for you with 1 or 2 rooms, smtimes 3 and you can bring your family. Cheers!
i'm korean and korean ppl r crazy at learning English even though there r not many english ppl in korea and not many things to do with nice english skill..
Many thanks for all that information, that was extremely helpful. I have a question about teaching in University. I have a master's degree and will in fact be intermitting from a PhD to teach in Korea for a year - do you think it would be easy for me to find a job there in a university? Would you recommend it?
I have been told before that they expect you to have taught English before, before they will even consider you for a university post - is this true?
I think, with a graduate degree you'd have no problem. The pay isn't always the greatest, but you'd have lots of free time and 4 months paid vacation a year. Even without teaching experience I'm sure you could. Just apply to a few places and see what they say!
Thanks alot for that, I'll get looking this weekend. If you have any suggestions as to where I should be looking, or particularly good institutions, or contacts out there - I'd be most appreciative!
hi im from england and really looking into teachin english in korea, this video helps big time! thx.. because i have no experience at all, im quite worried that teaching will be hard..
Kevin, as much as you seem to advertise and give good advice, you fail to mention anything about settling... Maybe your very independant or whatever, but i am sure you felt discriminated against, especially in southern cities? I really felt left out when i just vacationed there for a month, however i stll will work there as i have connections lets just say. Anyways, how did you get around it? Hide in a shell or just open up and not care? Maybe i cant feel/act so free im not american...
This video topic wasn't about settling...it was about work. As far as settling goes, everyone is completely different. Even "Americans"...i assume you mean "white" foreigners, have trouble settling and sometimes leave Korea soon after they arrive. I think you need a combination of an open mind and a thick skin!
Often Korean people are nice to you, but sometimes they may not be. I think having a good support network of foreign friends helps a lot.
I am interested in teaching in Korea, however do you know of foreigners that get a 2nd job? What are ideal 2nd jobs for foreigner? Thanks! I need to make more money to pay off loans.
Although you're not supposed to moonlight since it violates the E2 teaching visa, many teachers get part time jobs teaching at other schools or teaching English privately. There's good money to be made doing it, but don't get caught. If immigration find out you are moonlighting, you can get deported!
Your videos are really helpful, I've been doing research on the internet for the last 4 days and you've just pretty much summed up what I've learnt in 10 minutes! At soon as I've finished my degree and saved some cash Seoul here I come!
Hi ^^ I'm a high school student who really wants to teach English in Korea after college. I have this slight concern that I would have a difficult time finding a school that is willing to hire me because I don't have white skin, blue eyes, and blond hair. I hear that there's a lot of stereotyping :[ I am Filipino, but I am fluent in English. I'm hoping for a response ^^ please and thank you :]
Hi....I'm also Filipino....But born in the U.S. and a U.S. citizen who speaks perfect english. I've heard that it is somewhat difficult to get a job at a private academy.
Is this really true that I might have difficulty finding a job there? And what advice could you give on searching?
I had some Filipino-American friends working in Korea (one was a coworker) and one of m current coworkers here in Japan is Filipino and she worked in Korea as well.
dude you said something about getting student loans paid off....Ive considered going to korea to teach esl, but did not know anything about it and for sure did not know you could get your loans paid off.
I got a lead on teaching ESL in Korea. Global Campus is recruiting me to teach in Guri City at Songla middle school and Byulnae middle school. Have you heard of/would you trust Global Campus? Do you know anything about Guri City? The recruiter told me that if I lived in a single with another teacher, I would receive a bonus allowance per month of 400,000 won ($240'ish). Is such a promise a prime example of the kinds of falsehoods that recruiters tell in order to get teachers interested?
Thank you for making this. I graduate from my program in August of this year, and I'm seriously considering going to Korea this coming September. This helps me out alot .. if I have any other questions, can I contact you with them?
I really don`t know who`s good and who`s not! recruiters are a dime a dozen. If it`s your first time heading there, a recruiter would probably be the way to go. They would probably know a lot about the visa process.
Thanks for all the great advice. I am leaving for a positin in Incheon in a month. When I arrive, I apparently have to have a drug and HIV test. I have read some articles online, one on an offical website, that say that they no longer have the right to check for marijuana. Have you heard about these drug tests done by the schools? I do smoke pot and I am wondering if I may lose my position because it will most likely show up in my system.
Not sure about the tests....they started doing that after I left Korea. As far as I know, the schools don't test, the Immigration Dept. does. I suppose you have to remember that really, hey can test you for whatever they want...their country, their rules. I've heard the tests are for marijuana and HIV. Maybe other things....again.....I haven't researched since I don't plan to teach there again.
Hey Kevin, I got offered a job to teach at Wonderland Pohang...I noticed that you said Wonderland was not a good place to work. Have you ever heard about the one in Pohang?
thanks for the video kevin. i got a job with a private company called ChungDahm Learning Institute (CDI) in the Haeundae district of Busan. Where were you in Busan? Can you tell me anything about CDI or my location? Thanks!
hehe...small world....I was the first "Head Teacher" of that school when it opened. I was in charge of the EC and Memory English program at the Haeundae Branch and now defunct Namcheon Branch. I was treated very well and had an enjoyable time there. I'd totally recommend it to teachers, especially new ones...they have a very good curriculum!
No way! wow, it is a small world. So it sounds like you were doing R&D? I taught for two years in Japan...As a new teacher in Korea (but with experience) do you think I'll have responsibilities beyond facilitating? Will I be making lessons and activities, ect..
Thanks for your reply. Any further info about my branch would be much appreciated, thanks again!
I wasn't an R&D guy. I did know people who did that though. I suppose if you are well liked and hard working, there are always ways of moving up and into positions other than teaching.
Thanks for all the information, I want to teach in Public School, either Junior High or High School. I read you don't have to actually speak Korean, is that true or not? I'm learning it, slowly, anyway - but it's always good to know.
zeox70 1 year ago
thanks for the info!
redeyeblues11 1 year ago
Ahhh I really want to do this!!! How long have you been in Korea??
TheRachmaninoffFan 1 year ago
Wow! Thanks SOOO much for posting this video! I'm trying to get all of my paperwork done on time to head over there in September, but the problem is that I don't get my B.A. until August, so I was told that I might have to go to Japan to finish the work visa... That made me really nervous, but since you mentioned it in such a positive way, it made me feel much better. :)
marisoltena 1 year ago
I do this in China.
MooseBaker 1 year ago
Kevin, what the job market of teaching test prep (such as TOEFL or TOEIC) in South Korea?
TEFLSpeaking 1 year ago
ooooohhhh boy! Did you teach at Wonderland Hwajung your first year? Now I'm nervous, haha, with that face you made! and the "blacklisted" thing?! what's that mean???? What was so bad about it?? I guess I'll learn the hard way like you did. Ah well. It'll be like "teach eng. in korea" boot camp, and I'll be able to do anything after. . . . .right? would you say your experience was something like that??? hahaha
BoogieBoogieBoyLock 1 year ago
@BoogieBoogieBoyLock I was at Wonderland in Ilsan.....shitty place!
BusanKevin 1 year ago
I might be leaving for Incheon within the next month. More nervous about the simple task of teaching English to children in general than living in a foreign land!
tomsega 1 year ago
what company did you go for? and would you be able to go if you JUST got out of highschool?
xXsadanghaeXx 1 year ago
Hi thanks for this - is it dangerous in south korea? My friends are all putting me off...!
beckiboo2000 1 year ago
I really want to spend the summer teaching in Korea but Im having trouble finding a short term teaching job, 3 months or less. Is it possible to get a working visa in South Korea without agreeing to a 1 year teaching contract?
glitterchild 1 year ago
thx for d tips !
jessiieliao87 1 year ago
thx for d tips !
jessiieliao87 1 year ago
thx for d tips !
jessiieliao87 1 year ago
sweetness thanks for the video!
jilleneshwetz 1 year ago
hi there,.thanks for the very nice information,.I'm a teacher here at the Philippines and I really wanted to teach at Korea,there's a lot of fraudulent agencies here at my country giving false hope of jobs outside of the country,.thats why I'm reluctant to try agencies,.
Could you please post the agencies or the online address or website of the school or language school which you have already tried to and reliable...thanks
jerobrigado1 1 year ago
@jerobrigado1 My understanding from reading things is that it is best to go to Korea and investigate the schools you are interested in before you sign a contract. It seems that contracts signed outside of Korea are not binding IN Korea. It is not that far of a trip for you. For me it is a long flight from the Pacific Northwest of North America.
ytsolarus 1 year ago
hi there,.thanks for the very nice information,.I'm a teacher here at the Philippines and I really wanted to teach at Korea,there's a lot of fraudulent agencies here at my country giving false hope of jobs outside of the country,.thats why I'm reluctant to try agencies,.
Could you please post the agencies or the online address or website of the school or language school which you have already tried to and reliable...thanks
jerobrigado1 1 year ago
Hi, Thanks for the information. I will be teaching at an international school there soon. I noticed your hat and thought I would tell you that I was the ESL teacher for the Spanish players on the Cleveland Indians for two seasons.
gorwell97 1 year ago
Nice relaxed presentation! Q- I am American guy and soon to go over to S. Korea in which ESL school offer I think is better. Listen- I have a Philippino fiancee back in Manila Philippines.- Q- Can I 'invite her' over to Korea as I will then have a working visa? Also, will my school permit me to have her live with me- we may even try to get married in Korea! Appreciate what experience you have on this!
YodHeyVahHey 1 year ago
Great videos, Kevin. I love South Korea. I'm Haitian-American teaching in Jeju. Stay in touch. Onelove!
wbrutus22 1 year ago
Thanks for the info. I notice there are many ads online for teaching in South Korea. I interviewed with an Agency name Aclipse. Do you anything about Aclipse? Is it best to use an Agency to find jobs. Also Ive heard many people say that Koreans can be a bit racist to outsiders. Do you think this is true? Also would you recommend getting a TEFL certification before going? Thanks again
MrNoaway808 1 year ago
I taught english at a esl school owned by koreans. They cheated me and just about every other teacher. They were such hypocrites, dishonest and sneaky. Now i know why the Japanese always beat them in everything.
kellystone84 1 year ago
@kellystone84 just because one place cheated you, doesn't mean you can diss the entire race. I know that being cheated must have been a horrible experience, but you just can't lash out your anger at everybody. I'm sorry that they didn't treat you properly, but sometimes you just gotta pick a right place with the right people
tokee1234567 1 year ago
@kellystone84 just because one place cheated you, doesn't mean you can diss the entire race. I know that being cheated must have been a horrible experience, but you just can't lash out your anger at everybody. I'm sorry that they didn't treat you properly, but sometimes you just gotta pick a right place with the right people
tokee1234567 1 year ago
Thank you so much! Do you recommend teaching at a hakwon before public school? Is college GPA looked at during hiring process, if so do you think below-3.0 gpa can be overlooked if from a good college? If I have no experience teaching, what do you do do prepare lesson plans?, is training offered?
phantomwaltz 1 year ago
@phantomwaltz I have a few friends teaching with me in Seoul who had GPAslower than 2.8. I'm sure you can get a job with your GPA as long as you have the degree.
bry0000000 1 year ago
Thank you so much! Do you recommend teaching at a hakwon before public school? Is college GPA looked at during hiring process, if so do you think below-3.0 gpa can be overlooked if from a good college? If I have no experience teaching, what do you do do prepare lesson plans?, is training offered? And most importantly, I'm a naturally shy person who's horrible at public speaking, but for some reason I really want to do this, is this something that can be overcome through experience?
phantomwaltz 1 year ago
Thank you so much! I want to teach at a public school in Seoul, but I know those positions are hard to come by, so I'm planning to look into hakwons first. I do have a question though. I'm a really shy person and always had trouble speaking in front of a group, but do you think this is something I can overcome? Also I've never taught before, so I'm worried I won't know what to do, is this something you learn through experience? Lastly, is college GPA looked at during hiring process?
phantomwaltz 1 year ago
how strict are schools with their "native speaker" requirement?
I came to Canada when I was 5, I'm 25 now so I speak English fluently just like any native speaker...will this make much difference?
warwize 1 year ago
Comment removed
warwize 1 year ago
It's hard to know exactly who to trust and when to jump in terms of job offers. I am currently trying to find something reputable in Korea. Do you know anything about CIS- Daegu (they call themselves Canada Int. School, but from what I understand they're not a "real" International school). Any info would be very helpful! Also, just wondering why Kindergartens are the hardest...I guess I'm equating the experience to teaching Kindergarten in Canada, maybe it's not all that similar...
Chelssie1 1 year ago
do you need a teacher's certificate to teach in international schools?
phantomwaltz 1 year ago
I'm a Haitian-American poet teaching English in Jeju, South Korea. Its absolutely amazing. Kevin is absolutely on point with everything. Whatever your interest are, once you get here...you'll realize that the purpose will manifest itself. DO YOUR RESEARCH! Thanks Kevin, keep them coming. Onelove!
wbrutus22 1 year ago
Can a korean teach english in Korea? I was born in America, and I just want to know if an American-born korean has a chance to teach in Korea? I heard it's hard to.
WonderfulMrShyne 1 year ago
@WonderfulMrShyne Yeah. These days especially it is becoming more popular. Seoul is a great place to start. Try to find a network of American or Canadian-born Koreans to speak to. A few friends of mine work for CIS in Seoul. Try there. Even Berlitz may be a good place to start. Once you are here it would be easier to find out how you could make better cash. Good luck.
jamoun 1 year ago
Thanks so much for your video! It answered a lot of questions I had. I hope to teach in Korea after I I get my master's degree, but I'm studying abroad there this coming summer. I really appreciate your help!
oughterard87 1 year ago
I really appreciate this vide. It's very helpful. Thanks!
kerryoke68 1 year ago
Watch SimonandMartina!! they're the best!!
xXDavitchiXx 1 year ago
Hello, Thanks for taking your time to make these clips. This is my first video I've seen from you, and I want to ask a question regarding the work visa.I'm currently in my first year first semester of college but I want to travel to Korea to make money after April 2010 until December 2010. I don't have a University degree have you heard of people working without one? Is it possible to work legally without one?
Thanks for any help/advise you have :)
ian
jointheian 2 years ago
Hey-
I'm thinking about teaching ESL in Korea in 2 or 3 years. I visited a friend last year who is currently teaching in Seoul and I've been thinking a lot lately about teaching there.
My question is this: what is the average age of ESL teachers there? When I visited I got the impression that most of the teachers were in their mid 20s. I would probably be in my early 30s when I started. Is that normal? Or is it geared towards younger people fresh out of college? Thanks!
eastmeetswest43 2 years ago
Thank you for the info. I'm planning on getting my CELTA this summer. I'm a little concerned since I've read the best time to apply is the spring and it will be too late once I return from my training to apply for schools starting in September. Do you think it's possible/worthwhile to send my information to them before I have actually completed my CELTA just to show my interest in jobs there?
Danielle35773 2 years ago
I was just wondering... I'm Half French and Hmong (Asian) live and born in United State... do you think they will hired a person who's asian, because I haven't heard a lot of foreigner who is asian work in korea? And also, I already know that you have to have a degree from a 4 year college, but do you think they will hire someone who have a AA degree by any chance?
yerxiong08 2 years ago
Hey! Thanks for clarifying some our most troubling (and common) questions! I was wondering though, are there any resources we could use to narrow down reputable recruiters? Or at least some red flags we should be on the look out for during our job-searching process? Also, would you say the EPIK program is a safe bet if it is our first time teaching in Korea? Thanks in advance for any comments!
OhItsMinh 2 years ago
Hey BusanKevin, my mom is a teacher and is looking into going to south korea to teach for profit and for the adventure. We are all very excited to go for about a year or so, but she said when she was talking to a company, they would only "sponsor" her and not the whole family. Know of anything we can do or any companies that will do this? thanks
EvaxBlends 2 years ago
Sounds like your mother applied for a job at a language school. The would normally never sponsor a family. If she is a teacher wherever you are from, she should apply to a proper international school. There are many in Seoul. This is the hiring season though. Google some, go to the employment section and then she needs to send her resume in asap. They normally do all their recruiting of teachers in january and Feb. Those schools normally have packages for families!
BusanKevin 2 years ago
Ah thank you so much, we both appreciate it. hopefully we will be going in the next few months. If we run into any problems i may message you for help though. much thanks!
EvaxBlends 2 years ago
call an embassy and they will tell you how it works. they sponsor her for the e-2 but you go as a tourist and later get an f-3.
Kajun86 2 years ago
Busan is the best! lol. Im glad this guy takes an objective approach. Please keep it up! Anyway if you are considering teaching in the Orient be mentally prepared. 1) Little land and resources, so some of us are a little rude and very competitive. deal with it. 2) throw away your 'private space' crap, especially koreans like to hang out together. Its a different culture. 3) There are stereotypes just because we dont get to see a lot of you guys/ Still there are good people and new experiences.
skek5235 2 years ago 2
Thank you for this vid! =D
Savyeatsalot 2 years ago
Thank you so much for these videos. It is far more information that I had ever imagined. It was just something that I had recently started to consider, but had no idea of the process that it would take. Thank you so much.
jrlomy2k 2 years ago
Always expect last minute changes, a lack of interest in your work and being there, and for them to become vindictive should you complete a contract. Contracts mean little; your relationships mean everything and you do have to remind them more than once to pay you or that something else important needs attention. I found Koreans who want friendship with you is only for the convenience of you spewing out free English and western related knowledge. They don't like us, but want our knowledge.
bixlerscott 2 years ago
thank you so much for taking the trouble to make this
dafeltre 2 years ago 2
great video, very helpful
sammyash1 2 years ago
Helpful video
ReduceYourAccentLA 2 years ago
I'm planning to do an exchange to Korea and I was wondering if Korean restaurants are normally very accomodating to people with allergies ( I have seafood allergies).
sweetpea114 2 years ago 2
Don't go. Everything has fish, octopus, squid, etc.
riftshighway 2 years ago
is it easy to make friends in Korea even if its just with our TEFLrs and is it a good place to party on the weekends?
SpassMacher2000 2 years ago 3
@SpassMacher2000 It's extremely easy to meet other teachers, especially in larger cities. The social scene is a lot like first-year college or uni, but with money. Party Central!
dreamscape03 2 years ago 2
Did you meet many African American teachers? I'm having a difficult time getting a job and I'm starting to feel it's because I'm black. Several jobs have denied me stating the school prefers a Caucasian female.
kokirikid2000 2 years ago 3
wow...seriously....i am also an african american and i would like to go there....maybe we can be in this thing 2 gether....i have an african american frend who is already there and she works at a hagkwon.....i hope that they are not discriminate towards us with the brown skin....it pisses me off to think that the media has created this stigma that the african americans are unitelligent...thats isnt true....hit me back though...
jadama27 2 years ago 12
@jadama27 honestly speaking, there is a little racial discrimination in korea that remains, but if you go to hagkwon, they don't discriminate you because of your skin. I teach English at Chungdam Academy in S,Korea, i'm part african but i'm not having any problems. But, sometime when I walk down Seoul downtown, people look bug-eyed at u which used to irritate me, but now it makes me feel special :)
cyclops1020 2 years ago 2
Try working for GEPIK or SMOE. They don't discriminate based on race. You'd be teaching in the public school system. Hagwons (private academies) do discriminate and are usually terrible places to work.
Good luck.
incognito84 2 years ago
English teacher in Korea is good, we help their economy in may different ways you know.
canadianchunkyboy 2 years ago
I now want to go to korea
TheFloodhater 2 years ago 18
I am thinking about working at one of the Wonderland schools and I would like to know why exactly it they don't have a good reputation.
MrJTBacon 2 years ago
what kind of dad things lol
confusion94 2 years ago
What were the names of those schools you suggested? I'm ready to work overseas!
brynedney 2 years ago
i cant satnd koreans in america why the hell would i wana go to korea!!!
anwhatking 2 years ago
if you want to teach english in a foreign country, go to Korea because everyone's parents are obsessed with getting their child to learn english !
trust me, i know !
3kKorean 2 years ago
The "good days" of teaching English in Korea have gone long ago...It was pretty much over by the time I got there in 1994. The huge salaries, great treatment, and the amazing trust that employers granted English instructors had already been replaced with very savvy (and legally vague) 'employment contracts', low academic support, and lots of silly rules.
Having said that, I was also surprised to see that most instructors were not TESOL majors, and many did not take their jobs seriously.
mlovmo 2 years ago 2
Hello, I am looking to teach ESL at a public school in Korea. Do you have any website recommendation?
OceanAnimal101 2 years ago
very informative ty
MatthewAughie 2 years ago
hahaha
They study English.
It is our colony.
goduk321 2 years ago
What's with all the thumbs down for the recent comments?
I've tried to balance them by thumbing them up again :)
Nice vid by the way.
Huba588 2 years ago 4
no idea. There must be a bored hater out there! hehe thanks for thumbs uping the comments :)
BusanKevin 2 years ago 8
GREAT REVIEW KEVIN!!
I've been watching basically all your videos. I'm about to graduate UCI and want to experience it, all the mistakes too. Which recruiter company would you recommend?
jyhighsky 2 years ago
Hey, great info. I have been considering teaching in Korea or Japan, but I'm so skeptical about certain schools and the process. Do you have any info on university jobs? I will be getting my masters in March and have 3 years of teaching experience (actually teaching English in an innercity school) Thanks for your help.
nitetengo 2 years ago
cool...I've taught at inner city schools back home too....Korea is a cake-walk in comparison.
Chekc out a podcast called the "midnightrunner".....he did an episode about teaching at universities in Korea. Just google it. )I personally have never worked at a university)
BusanKevin 2 years ago
Hey Kevin. Great post! I would like to just add that the Korean won has plummeted to the lowest point that I've seen since I started working in Korea, It's getting much harder to make decent wages there nowadays without having to work your ass off, or teach private lessons..(2million won= 1,766.72 CD$, 1,600 US$.) As far as the cost of living is concerned, I think that it has now evened out to be very similar to that of Canada's. It all depends on how you choose to live once you are in Korea.
chaechol 2 years ago
I am thinking about teaching ESL in Korea, not sure what city I should go to. Seoul is big but Busan looks nicer and more charming. Have you heard of recruiters by the name of Park English or RBI Korea. These are the two agencies that I have been working with. Some of you videos scare me and think I should not do it. Others seem promising. What to do? :)
brandonlk 2 years ago
I think you should totally go for it! Going to Korea was a great move for me. I had some problems, but the good far outweighed the bad! That's why I lived there for more than 5 years!
As for specific recruiters, I don't really know anything. There are a lot. I'd avoid hagwons though...public schools would probably be the most secure jobs!
BusanKevin 2 years ago
yes, Kevin's right. I've been working at a public school in Busan. It's pretty good for foreigners to work...I mean..public schools guarantee your occupation~althougth it's one year or two year contract...It's a pretty decent job! I'm telling you. And I've heard there's a kind or english proficiency test for hiring EFL teacher just like you~you should check it first ~Good luck, man.
katusa9910 2 years ago
Thanks for info.
I'm living in Busan ,too. ^^
And I've been teaching English while I'm preparing for the teacher's exam.
katusa9910 2 years ago
cool....good luck with the teacher's exam!
BusanKevin 2 years ago
Nice info. Great job.
dilliondemand 2 years ago
wow thanks so much for the info!
thelittlejennie 2 years ago
you welcome! Thanks for watching.
BusanKevin 2 years ago
Hi,Busakevin! i really love your name.!BUSANKEVIN! I am from seoul though..
I saw some of your other video clips,,GOOD JOB!! I really enjoyed it alot!
How would you compare Japan to Korea and what could it be a big difference btw K&J from your view and your experience??
bazaar1202 2 years ago
Thanks a lot for liking the videos.
So far....big differences....Japan is far more expensive than Korea, but I tend to feel it is more foreigner friendly. The Japanese are more comfortable with non-Japanese living here.
BusanKevin 2 years ago
hey i was thinking of either teaching english in japan or korea. i will have a humanity master's degree, and if it is as you say that these positions are the best to get generally, how would one go about applying for one? thanks
fwing11 2 years ago
WOW! Thanks! I've been looking at teaching in south Korea, It's mid July now, Do you think I would have a chance at being hired ans starting in August? Do they really need teachers that bad, because I see numerous wesites looking for teachers? What were your utility bills, house phone/cell phone bills like?
keiyara6 2 years ago
Comment removed
Peter1360 2 years ago
Apparently no....they test for other drugs....but....if you're planning on heading there....lay off the pot....and when you're there.....don't think about ever doing it....you'll be SCREWED if you're ever caught!
BusanKevin 2 years ago
wow this is a great one and a lot of views. thanks for sharing bro.
betamaxdc 2 years ago
I have a question to anybody who has taught.
Can you teach in Korea with an Associates degree? or do you need a bachelors degree?
SpyderR0de0 2 years ago
Pretty sure you need a 4 year Bachelor's degree, but i could be wrong. Contact a recruiter...they can tell you more. Things have changed since my days in Korea (with regards to visas).
BusanKevin 2 years ago
Hi Kevin,
I was wondering if you've heard of a hagwon called Avalon. I just interviewed with them today and I'm in the process of waiting and getting all my forms together. Any feedback would be awesome.
metalikidd7 2 years ago
I have, I have a friend who works for one. It fine, no problems.
kerchnerb9402 2 years ago
Hey Kevin, thanks for sharing your insight with us. I'm actually in the process of interviewing with recruiters right now. For recent college grads with no teaching license/experience, what's the highest paying position available and how much do you think I can expect to make?
P00P00Head 2 years ago
here are some questions i would like to ask..
do you need a TEFL Certificate?
how do you know what to teach?
do they provide you with materials needed such as textbooks and what not?
they provide you with an apartment but do they include basic living needs like couches,fridge,bed, etc?
im going into 3rd year, and planning on teaching overseas after.
BboyChunGViN 2 years ago
hey kevin, have you heard of BeMy & Co.? The guy's name is Ken that runs it. I am interested in using him as an agent, but i just want to see some feedback first.
FG051287 2 years ago
Thanks For the info Kevin, very helpful!! I just got hired at a hagwon in gangju called tn english. I'm leaving in a month and a half. Any advice or information about the school or location? I would really appreciate it.
tamper1779 2 years ago
I NEED YOUR HELP!
I would love to teach ESL in S. Korea but I have no degree... just a HS diploma!
Would anyone still hire me?
YogaMan27 2 years ago
To get a proper working visa it's very black and white. You have to have a university degree. It's just that simple.
Sorry
BusanKevin 2 years ago
Hey Kevin! thanks for all your advice. It was very helpful. Have you heard anything about the recruiters Gone2Korea or TeachESLKorea? Do you know any websites where I could post something and find out if they are legit? One of the recruiters says I need to send my college diploma to my school in korea. Does this seem legit to you? Cuz it sounds absolutely crazy to me!Thanks for your time.
pknotts1 2 years ago
Don't know anything about recruiters. There are so many.
It's normal to have to send your diploma. They have to verify it's real. They'll also have to send it to Korean immigration in order to get your work visa. They do the same thing here in Japan. You need a degree to get an E2 visa and they won't just take your word for it. No worries. You'll get it back!
BusanKevin 2 years ago
Hey Kevin,
so I got an offer today in the Chung Dahm Learning school. Have you heard it of it? Also is it common for Korea to ask for the original copy of your bachelor's degree?
soarinivie 2 years ago
I know that place well. I was a Head Teacher at two branches a few years ago. I had a very good experience with the company. I also made very good money.
It is perfectly normal to give them your original degree. You must in order to get a working visa. Same here in Japan. They give it to immigration. You'll get it back once your visa is approved.
BusanKevin 2 years ago
Hi Keven
Thanks for the great advice I appreciate it. I'm getting an interview next week for a school in Yongin. I will be finding out what school it actually is pretty soon and will check it out via the forums you suggested. However, the place Yongin seems ok from what I've seen of random webpages and youtube videos. Do you know Yongin? Your input on this place would be cool.
Thanks
Rob
Nashyboyo 2 years ago
Hi BusanKevin. Thank you for this important information. I have gotten a lot of e-mails and calls from recruiters for jobs in both the public and private sector. Although I'm caught in a pleasant dilemma, I want to make the right choice. My concern is the contract. I don't want to sign anything I'm not comfortable with. Your advice helps. I have both a degree and TEFL Certificate. Is there any unscrupulous vocabulary I should be cautious about when I read the contract?
adiaz80 2 years ago
Yup! return airfare and fully furnished free accommodation will be provided for every ESL job in Korea. I think I can help anyone who needs help to know those ESL jobs in Korea. Coz thats what am doing here ^^* contact me.
TheJayhh 2 years ago
No head hunting on my channel!
BusanKevin 2 years ago
i like your hat
SpyderR0de0 2 years ago
you know dat?? I am korean and I am lerarning from ESL what he's talking about we usually say institute or shcool teacher or whatever. I know dat some english people are coming to korea to teach english. But when you teach grade 7 or something like that it can be hard because they sometimes tease the teaching, it's so dumb. .. so it would be not good .. lol ..
yourenotKorean 2 years ago
the Tesol site says--- Minimum Degree: N/A are you sure a degree is needed ?
DaqAttaq 2 years ago
Comment removed
Persephone121 2 years ago
is it necessary to know a little korean?
amychoanghlhen 2 years ago
No it isn't necessary, but it's very helpful. At least take the time to learn how to read hangul!
BusanKevin 2 years ago
good
pengyou1909 2 years ago
really,,pay for flight fee and rent fee.......?
i dont understand ......
jiyou82 2 years ago
uhmm do they have any preference with ethnicity? because i am thinking they would prefer white over an asian[myself, am a tibetan] do you this would be true?
amychoanghlhen 2 years ago
Would you suggest taking a contract in Seoul? I hear it is far more expensive to live in Seoul than other places in Korea. Is this true?
mediumsteve 2 years ago
I'm from Berlin and now live in Korea, Daegu city. Korean called Seoul to "Republic of Seoul" haha. (my korean friends usually speak 'bout it) in Seoul's prices, consumption tendencies and their conceptions are different from other places.
Raddesvermougen 2 years ago
I am from Ohio (I noticed the Indians cap :o)) and am currently teaching English in Barcelona, Spain and considering Korea for next year. One question I have is how was the culture shock at first? I know here in BCN it was kinda big at first, but it can't be as big as Korea. Was it difficult to adjust? How often do you get to go home? And, if you are to get a visa before going, how long is that process and how long in advance should I be applying? Any advice would be great. Thanks!
Shannonses0684 2 years ago
thank you for taking the time to do this. a very generous way to spend your free time and energy.
ab99vq 2 years ago
Hi Busan Kevin!
I was just contacted by a recruiter. I am 41 years old with a family. My family is okay with me going. I have a Masters Degree from an accredited institution. What are some of the questions I can ask her? Do you have any advice for me.
Thanks
rolyfern 2 years ago
You're 41 and have a family? My opinion is that teaching English in Korea is a young man's/woman's game or for SINGLE older people. I did this when I was 24 to 27 years old. I can't imagine leaving my spouse/family nowadays to do this at my age (around your age). It's also just such a hassle to deal with the BS involved. Work for a well-established company like YBM (ELS), and you won't get screwed. Yes, getting NOT PAID and other things like that are a problem for English teachers in Korea
mlovmo 2 years ago
I guess that use to happen to the youth, this man can get a good contrct, he holds a master, so he can work for an university...try SIR! but don;t leave your family...bring them here...if you don;t have the money for bringginf them, with your first or second salary you can pay the tickets even for the grand ma!
Andymobile 2 years ago
Hi! Sir I do not recommend you to come here, but in case, you are able to bring your family here. your employer will provide you an apartment just for you with 1 or 2 rooms, smtimes 3 and you can bring your family. Cheers!
Andymobile 2 years ago
yea , no offence but they are not fat no they are thin.. and they like american guys
rbh0083 2 years ago
i'm korean and korean ppl r crazy at learning English even though there r not many english ppl in korea and not many things to do with nice english skill..
rbh0083 2 years ago 2
Many thanks for all that information, that was extremely helpful. I have a question about teaching in University. I have a master's degree and will in fact be intermitting from a PhD to teach in Korea for a year - do you think it would be easy for me to find a job there in a university? Would you recommend it?
I have been told before that they expect you to have taught English before, before they will even consider you for a university post - is this true?
Many thanks in anticipation.
Mike
MikeAsano 2 years ago
I think, with a graduate degree you'd have no problem. The pay isn't always the greatest, but you'd have lots of free time and 4 months paid vacation a year. Even without teaching experience I'm sure you could. Just apply to a few places and see what they say!
Cheers and good luck
Kevin
BusanKevin 2 years ago
Thanks alot for that, I'll get looking this weekend. If you have any suggestions as to where I should be looking, or particularly good institutions, or contacts out there - I'd be most appreciative!
Mike
MikeAsano 2 years ago
hi im from england and really looking into teachin english in korea, this video helps big time! thx.. because i have no experience at all, im quite worried that teaching will be hard..
litttlewing 2 years ago
Don't worry about it. Just get on the plane.^^
HumanStrategy 2 years ago
Thanks for posting.. It was really informative. I am very interested in teaching English in China at the moment.
nikeshoxz08 2 years ago
As a sophomore, is there ANY way I can find a summer job teaching English in Korea? (I am studying abroad Fall semester)
Thanks!
butteryblue 2 years ago
Kevin, as much as you seem to advertise and give good advice, you fail to mention anything about settling... Maybe your very independant or whatever, but i am sure you felt discriminated against, especially in southern cities? I really felt left out when i just vacationed there for a month, however i stll will work there as i have connections lets just say. Anyways, how did you get around it? Hide in a shell or just open up and not care? Maybe i cant feel/act so free im not american...
webstar1337 2 years ago
This video topic wasn't about settling...it was about work. As far as settling goes, everyone is completely different. Even "Americans"...i assume you mean "white" foreigners, have trouble settling and sometimes leave Korea soon after they arrive. I think you need a combination of an open mind and a thick skin!
Often Korean people are nice to you, but sometimes they may not be. I think having a good support network of foreign friends helps a lot.
BusanKevin 2 years ago
can you tell em about their medical testing? specifically THC.
do they do hair strandd testing?
on the korean immigration site it says they stopped checking.
kangbus 2 years ago
Sorry. No idea on this one. I left Korea before they inacted any sort of medical/blood/drug tests.
BusanKevin 2 years ago
I am interested in teaching in Korea, however do you know of foreigners that get a 2nd job? What are ideal 2nd jobs for foreigner? Thanks! I need to make more money to pay off loans.
GeeeStatus 2 years ago
Although you're not supposed to moonlight since it violates the E2 teaching visa, many teachers get part time jobs teaching at other schools or teaching English privately. There's good money to be made doing it, but don't get caught. If immigration find out you are moonlighting, you can get deported!
BusanKevin 2 years ago
Your videos are really helpful, I've been doing research on the internet for the last 4 days and you've just pretty much summed up what I've learnt in 10 minutes! At soon as I've finished my degree and saved some cash Seoul here I come!
dannybreakbeat 2 years ago
Hi ^^ I'm a high school student who really wants to teach English in Korea after college. I have this slight concern that I would have a difficult time finding a school that is willing to hire me because I don't have white skin, blue eyes, and blond hair. I hear that there's a lot of stereotyping :[ I am Filipino, but I am fluent in English. I'm hoping for a response ^^ please and thank you :]
erikaguitarist16 2 years ago
To behonest, it might be a little more challenging to find a good job, but I'm sure you can. I had a few Filipino
BusanKevin 2 years ago
Hi....I'm also Filipino....But born in the U.S. and a U.S. citizen who speaks perfect english. I've heard that it is somewhat difficult to get a job at a private academy.
Is this really true that I might have difficulty finding a job there? And what advice could you give on searching?
hehatemee 2 years ago
oops...let me finish that...
I had some Filipino-American friends working in Korea (one was a coworker) and one of m current coworkers here in Japan is Filipino and she worked in Korea as well.
BusanKevin 2 years ago
I see ^^ thank you very much for replying : D I hope things change in the upcoming years.
erikaguitarist16 2 years ago
dude you said something about getting student loans paid off....Ive considered going to korea to teach esl, but did not know anything about it and for sure did not know you could get your loans paid off.
booza24 2 years ago
I got a lead on teaching ESL in Korea. Global Campus is recruiting me to teach in Guri City at Songla middle school and Byulnae middle school. Have you heard of/would you trust Global Campus? Do you know anything about Guri City? The recruiter told me that if I lived in a single with another teacher, I would receive a bonus allowance per month of 400,000 won ($240'ish). Is such a promise a prime example of the kinds of falsehoods that recruiters tell in order to get teachers interested?
nangnu 2 years ago
you MUST now get your first visa in the country you live in. or you are going back to get it. new rules dec 08
after that you can renew in korea.
mameerali 3 years ago
Thank you for making this. I graduate from my program in August of this year, and I'm seriously considering going to Korea this coming September. This helps me out alot .. if I have any other questions, can I contact you with them?
Raahnn 3 years ago
Sure thing. Sometimes it takes me awhile to reply, but I will try to if I can and the questions are appropriate.
BusanKevin 3 years ago
i hung on your every word. brilliant vid
hilltopstreets 3 years ago
Do you find the kids are more well behaved then in Western Schools?
oceaneagle1 3 years ago
They spend a lot more time studying and due to the general constraints and expectations of society, I'd definitely have to say "Yes!"
BusanKevin 3 years ago
Comment removed
jackjohnston99 2 years ago
Are english teachers' income considered a "high income"? or is it considered like... average/normal?
shawn0319 3 years ago
Once upon a time it would have been in the "higher" realm, but these days, I think it's a regular middle-class income. It's still pretty good.
BusanKevin 3 years ago
I am an american but do i have to get a F1 Visa to teach in korea?
NiceCar2008 3 years ago
Is it better to go through a recruiter or should i just do it myself? i know you say they can be self serving, do you know of any good recruiters?
englishredraider 3 years ago
I really don`t know who`s good and who`s not! recruiters are a dime a dozen. If it`s your first time heading there, a recruiter would probably be the way to go. They would probably know a lot about the visa process.
BusanKevin 3 years ago
In addition, the one that is written on the back is Chinese. Don't get confused between Korean and Chinese language.
ldy900402 3 years ago
Which part of Japan?
kirkwood1991 3 years ago
Hey Busan Kevin, why dont you let them know about getting fake degrees? Or why they really come to Korea?
vancityandy 3 years ago
Hi,
Thanks for all the great advice. I am leaving for a positin in Incheon in a month. When I arrive, I apparently have to have a drug and HIV test. I have read some articles online, one on an offical website, that say that they no longer have the right to check for marijuana. Have you heard about these drug tests done by the schools? I do smoke pot and I am wondering if I may lose my position because it will most likely show up in my system.
Thank you,
Robin
Laylarawbean 3 years ago
Not sure about the tests....they started doing that after I left Korea. As far as I know, the schools don't test, the Immigration Dept. does. I suppose you have to remember that really, hey can test you for whatever they want...their country, their rules. I've heard the tests are for marijuana and HIV. Maybe other things....again.....I haven't researched since I don't plan to teach there again.
Good luck :)
BusanKevin 3 years ago
Hey Kevin, I got offered a job to teach at Wonderland Pohang...I noticed that you said Wonderland was not a good place to work. Have you ever heard about the one in Pohang?
peacedove9231 3 years ago
thanks for the video kevin. i got a job with a private company called ChungDahm Learning Institute (CDI) in the Haeundae district of Busan. Where were you in Busan? Can you tell me anything about CDI or my location? Thanks!
MtotheATTHEW 3 years ago
hehe...small world....I was the first "Head Teacher" of that school when it opened. I was in charge of the EC and Memory English program at the Haeundae Branch and now defunct Namcheon Branch. I was treated very well and had an enjoyable time there. I'd totally recommend it to teachers, especially new ones...they have a very good curriculum!
Good luck :)
BusanKevin 3 years ago
No way! wow, it is a small world. So it sounds like you were doing R&D? I taught for two years in Japan...As a new teacher in Korea (but with experience) do you think I'll have responsibilities beyond facilitating? Will I be making lessons and activities, ect..
Thanks for your reply. Any further info about my branch would be much appreciated, thanks again!
MtotheATTHEW 3 years ago
I wasn't an R&D guy. I did know people who did that though. I suppose if you are well liked and hard working, there are always ways of moving up and into positions other than teaching.
BusanKevin 3 years ago