 What is the EPIC program for teaching English in South Korea? The English program in Korea, short EPIC, is a government-supported scheme that places native English speakers into South Korean schools with the specific aim of improving the language skills of children and teachers. The program allows you to enjoy a fascinating cultural experience while also gaining valuable classroom practice. EPIC stands for English Program in Korea, a scheme backed by the South Korean government that places foreign teachers into schools across the country to work as English language instructors. EPIC is one of the largest and most popular schemes of its kind as it offers a competitive salary, a good range of extra benefits and the chance to experience living and working in a unique cultural environment. If you meet the specified criteria, then you could be one of the thousand plus teachers heading to South Korea this year to join the program. The basics. To be eligible to join the EPIC program, you must be a native English speaker with a passport from one of the following countries. Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, the UK, or the US. Applicants must hold a university degree and be able to prove a clean criminal record. In addition, you will require at least one of the following. Teflur TESOL certification of 100 hours or more. Preference is given to those with a teaching practice component. Bachelor's or Master's degree in Education with a major in Teaching, TESOL, Second Language Studies, or Education. Teaching license gained in your home country. One year of full-time teaching experience. If successful, you will be required to sign a one-year contract that runs from one of two start dates, either at the end of February or the end of August. A typical working schedule is Monday to Friday from 8.40am to 4.40pm, with weekends off. Actual teaching time equates to approximately 22 hours per week. Placements on the program can be in almost any province in the country, with any individual preferences dealt with on a first-come, first-served basis. During your stay, you might be expected to work in a variety of primary and secondary schools within your designated area. If you have a preference for one particular area, then it is recommended that you submit your application as early as possible. For further information, please visit the official EPIC website, www.epic.go.kr. Benefits. The overall package offered by the EPIC program includes a wide range of benefits, including salary based on qualifications and experience, ranging from 1.8 to 2.7 million Korean won, currently 1,500 to 2,300 US dollars per month. Fully furnished accommodation, not including utilities. Paid airfare in and out of the country. 300,000 Korean won settlement allowance. 18 days paid leave plus all national holidays. One month salary bonus on completion of contract.