Introduction

Those considering teaching English in South Korea often encounter mixed information online. This article aims to clarify the requirements and opportunities available, ensuring you have accurate information to make informed decisions. If you possess an English degree and wish to teach in South Korea, several certifications and visa types can open doors for you.

Visa Requirements

Eligibility Requirements

To teach English legally in South Korea, you must meet specific eligibility criteria. These primarily revolve around your nationality and educational background:

Country of Origin: You need to be from one of the following countries to be eligible: United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and South Africa.Clean Criminal Record: You should have a clean criminal record. This is a fundamental requirement to obtain a teaching visa in South Korea.Bachelor's Degree: You must hold a Bachelor's degree, typically from a recognized university in one of the eligible countries. A degree in English, while helpful, is not strictly required if you have a related field degree.

Teaching Certification

While a degree in English is advantageous, a teaching certificate such as TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) is often a necessary requirement for teaching in South Korea. However, if you do not have a teaching certificate, you may still find opportunities:

TEFL Qualification: Having a TEFL certificate is a significant advantage, but not a strict requirement. You can often find positions that will train you on the job.Specific Positions: Some positions may require a TEFL certificate, while others may be more flexible. It’s essential to check the job description and requirements carefully.

Alternative Avenues

For non-native speakers who do not meet the traditional criteria, alternative avenues exist, although they come with their own set of challenges:

Marrying a Korean: If you marry a Korean citizen, you can obtain a spousal visa. While technically you may not be able to teach legally, many couples opt for private tutoring, which is not illegal. However, you should be aware that being caught may result in the revocation of your visa.Student Visa: A student visa allows you to work part-time, but this is usually limited to 20 hours per week. You can use this to supplement your income while studying.Travel Visa: A travel visa can be used to enter South Korea for short periods. You can attempt to teach privately, but you must leave the country regularly to renew your travel visa. Japan is near, so this can be an option, but technically, you are not supposed to teach legally. There is a risk your visa may be revoked if caught.

Lessons Learned

Several educators have shared their experiences:

Positive Experience: Some have noted success in finding teaching positions with a non-TEFL degree but require a TEFL certification. For example, teaching in Busan with a Psychology BA and TEFL was described as a positive experience.Challenges: Many non-native speakers face challenges in securing teaching jobs, especially if they do not have the required certification. They mention being assigned to areas they may not prefer or find the job less satisfactory.

Conclusion

Teaching English in South Korea with an English BA and no education experience is possible but comes with specific requirements and potential challenges. Ensure you thoroughly research the eligibility criteria, understand the visa types available, and be prepared for the possible alternatives to legally teaching in South Korea. With the right preparation and mindset, you can make your dream of teaching in South Korea a reality.