How to Get a Job in Korea, Just for Speaking English

Teaching ESL, or English as a second language, can be a rewarding experience for those seeking a teaching job and a chance to explore other parts of the world, like Korea. Korea is one of the most popular countries to teach English in because of the possibility to save lots of money due to low taxes and living cost; a high demand for ESL teachers and tutors; and a chance to experience one of the most unique mixtures of Western and Asian cultures and traditions. Add the fact that most ESL institutes and language schools offer free round-trip tickets to Korea, free housing, and severance pay for completing a 1 year contract (Korea requires employers to pay employees that quit or are fired a 1 month salary for every year worked. For ESL teachers, a 1 year contract is equivalent to getting paid for 13 months), its easy to see why Korea has become the number one stop for ESL teachers. The following documents are required to get an E-2 work visa, a Korean visa that allows foreigners to work inside Korea, and apply for ESL institutes and language schools.

1. College degree - An original copy of a college degree from a 4-year university in any major with an official transcript.

2. Passport - A current passport that won't expire for at least 2 years or more.

3. Photo - A recent, professional looking photo from the shoulders up, such as a passport photo.

4. Medical record - An up to date medical record that lists any medical conditions and medication needed.

5. Resume - A standard resume that lists appropriate experience, references, and contact information.

6. Other certification - Original copies of ESL related certification, such as TESOL (teaching English for speakers of other languages) and TEFL (teaching English as a foreign language), as well as original copies of teaching related certification, such as teaching credentials and teaching degrees.

With these documents in hand, post a resume online at multiple Korean ESL job boards and respond to as many job listings as possible to maximize the number of job offers received. The key to enjoying teaching in Korea is to work for a company with a good reputation among students and teachers as well as checking and double-checking all terms of the contract before signing. With a variety of job offers and applications available, it will be easier to pick out a solid job offer with a great school.

After applying for an offer, an informal phone interview is set up between the potential applicant and employer. When hired, the employer will negotiate round trip tickets, housing, salary, work schedule, and other conditions of the contract with the teacher. Contracts normally last for 1 year with an option to renew. All the terms of the contract should be set in stone before ever leaving the country, to prevent future headaches and stress. If anything raises any doubts or suspicions, be sure to set the record straight instead of ignoring it; being stuck in a foreign country with no return ticket because of fine print is no fun at all.

Working as an ESL teacher in Korea can be an exciting experience for the adventurous. By being prepared and understanding the application process, future ESL teachers can be sure to land a great job with little worries.