Close your eyes and picture yourself in a country where ancient history meets modern technology, bustling cities coexist with serene natural landscapes, and where the demand for English and other corresponding subject teachers is rapidly growing.
South Korea, is a land of contrasts that offers a unique and exciting teaching experience. Not only will you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich and fascinating culture, but you’ll also be rewarded with decent pay, exceptional benefits, and a cheap cost of living.
So, if you’re ready to embark on a thrilling adventure and positively impact students’ lives, join us as we explore some essential steps to becoming a teacher in South Korea.
Can International Students Become a Teacher in South Korea?
Yes, it is indeed possible for international students to become teachers in South Korea. The country offers a plethora of teaching opportunities for interested candidates. However, to start teaching in South Korea, international students must fulfill a specific set of criteria. This includes obtaining a valid visa, holding a bachelor’s degree, and passing a background check.
In addition, for individuals looking to teach English, a TEFL certificate may also be mandatory for some institutions. These requirements are necessary to ensure that international students can deliver quality education and meet the standards set by the Korean government.
So, with these right qualifications and preparation, international students can explore exciting teaching prospects and positively impact the lives of Korean students while also grooming themselves for their professional careers.
How to Become a Teacher in South Korea
Students interested in teaching in South Korea might wonder about the requirements and steps necessary to become licensed teachers there. But don’t worry! We have provided a comprehensive guide on the essential steps you need to take to fulfill your teaching aspirations and become a successful educator in dynamic Korea. Let’s hop on a teaching adventure together!
Step 1. Lay the foundation by earning a bachelor’s degree
One of the primary requirements for becoming a teacher in South Korea is obtaining a bachelor’s degree in any widely recognized field of study that the individual wants to teach, such as English, Mathematics, Science, or Social studies.
The degree program should provide global learners with a strong foundation in the subject matter and knowledge in pedagogy or the science of teaching. Pedagogy coursework may include teaching methods, classroom management, educational psychology, and assessment and evaluation of student learning which is essential in teaching.
To foster your needs, several South Korean universities, such as Seoul National University and Yonsei University, offer these programs tailored to foreign students who wish to become licensed teachers in the country. If studying bachelor’s in South Korea isn’t feasible, you can also earn the degree in your home country as long as the South Korean government recognizes it.
Step 2. Undergo health and criminal background checks
To become a licensed teacher in South Korea, having a clean criminal and health record is important. The Korean government requires all individuals who wish to work as teachers to undergo criminal and health background checks.
The Korean National Police Agency conducts the criminal background check, and the health check is conducted by a designated medical institution appointed by the Korean Health Department. But don’t worry; these checks are quick and easy and are designed to ensure that individuals are fit to work as teachers in South Korea and reward themselves with a successful career path.
Step 3. Pass the Teachers Recruitment Examination
The next step toward your professional teaching job at Korean public and national schools is to pass the Teacher Recruitment Exam (TRE). Passing the TRE lets an individual obtain an official teaching license known as the “Teacher Certification”, issued by the Korean Ministry of Education department recognized as KEDI.
The TRE is a competitive exam that tests individuals’ knowledge of pedagogy, subject matter, and teaching skills and possesses certain eligibility criteria for international students, including getting a bachelor’s degree, a valid passport/visa, and having a clean health and criminal record. Acing the test might be a bit difficult, but the outcome certificate will open up great opportunities for those wishing to pursue a teaching career in Korea.
Step 4. Boost your employability with Korean and English language certificates
To get employed at Korean schools and colleges, it’s crucial to have a strong command of Korean and English by showing proper certifications. One way to showcase your language skills and boost your employability is by obtaining language certificates for both languages. Individuals can take the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) for Korean proficiency, while tests like TOEFL and IELTS can be taken for English proficiency. Not only can these certificates enhance your teaching skills, but they can also open up doors to opportunities for teaching English as second language classes.
Step 5. Apply for jobs
Once you have completed the previous steps, you can apply for teaching positions in South Korea. You can search for job openings on various job boards or through recruitment agencies that specialize in placing foreign teachers in South Korean schools.
When applying for teaching positions, having a well-crafted resume and cover letter highlighting your qualifications and experience is important. Be sure to include your language certificates or teaching practice experience you may have.
Becoming a licensed teacher in South Korea can be a fulfilling career choice for international students with the necessary qualifications, skills, and passion for teaching. The comprehensive guide outlined above highlights the essential steps required to fulfill your teaching aspirations in South Korea, from obtaining a bachelor’s degree to obtaining the necessary certifications and experience. So, keep your teaching aspirations from going unfulfilled – start taking action today and make your mark as a successful educator in dynamic Korea!
Hopefully, you will be able to pass the steps involved and become a South Korean teacher. The country is an excellent destination not just for work but also for studies. Make sure to check out the Available Programs and Study in Korea to explore your options for studying abroad.
