How to Teach English in South Korea: Complete Guide

Written by Ritesh Agarwal Published 8 October 2025 ~4 min read

Teaching English in South Korea offers an exciting opportunity to gain international teaching experience while immersing yourself in a vibrant culture. Programs like the Premier TEFL six-month internship provide a structured pathway for first-time teachers, combining hands-on classroom experience with support for accommodation, visas, and pre-departure training. This guide covers everything you need to know about teaching English in South Korea, including requirements, salary, cost of living, visa steps, hiring seasons, application process, and top cities to teach.

Eligibility Requirements to Teach English in South Korea

To participate in a six-month internship in South Korea, applicants must meet several eligibility requirements. Candidates should be between 21 and 35 years old and hold a bachelor’s degree in any field. Native-level English proficiency is required to ensure effective communication in the classroom. Applicants must also be in good mental and physical health and have a clean criminal record. While no prior teaching experience is necessary, the program includes a 120-hour accredited TEFL course, which equips participants with all the skills needed to successfully teach English in South Korean classrooms.

Key highlights of the requirements include:

Age: 21–35 years old
Education: Bachelor’s degree in any field
English Proficiency: Native-level fluency
Health: Good mental and physical health
Criminal Record: Clean background check
TEFL Certification: Included in the program

Expected Salary and Benefits

Participants in the six-month internship can expect to earn a monthly salary of approximately $1,600 to $1,750 USD. This amount is sufficient to cover living expenses and also allows participants to save money during the program. In addition to the salary, interns receive rent-free accommodation, visa assistance, and ongoing support throughout the duration of the internship. These combined benefits make the the internship a cost-effective and valuable opportunity to gain international teaching experience.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in South Korea is relatively affordable, especially when accommodation is included. Food typically costs between $200 and $400 per month, while transportation averages $50 to $150. Miscellaneous expenses, such as entertainment and personal items, usually range from $50 to $100 per month. With rent covered by the internship, participants can live comfortably, explore the country, and even save money during their six-month stay.

Visa Process

The standard visa for teaching English in South Korea is the E-2 visa. Applicants must provide a valid passport, a bachelor’s degree, a clean criminal record, and a medical check. Premier TEFL assists participants throughout the visa application process to ensure all documents are correctly submitted. Once approved by the Ministry of Justice, the visa is issued, allowing interns to travel and begin their placement. This support ensures that participants have a smooth and stress-free transition to life in South Korea.

Hiring Season

The main hiring seasons for teaching positions in South Korea are March for the spring intake and September for the fall intake. This internship program aligns with these schedules, with start dates in October, January, and March. It is recommended that applicants submit their applications two to three months in advance. Applying early also allows participants to complete the TEFL course and pre-departure preparations on time.

How to Apply

Applying for the 6-month internship is straightforward:

Visit the Program Page: Go to Premier TEFL's South Korea Internship.
Select a Start Date: Choose from available start dates: October 27, 2025; January 19, 2026; or March 23, 2026.
Payment Options: Pay the full program fee of $1,615 USD, or opt for a payment plan with a 20% deposit followed by two interest-free instalments.
Submit Application: Complete the application form and submit the required documents.
Confirmation: Receive confirmation and begin the preparation process.

Premier TEFL offers a comprehensive support system, including pre-departure training and in-country orientation.

Top Cities to Teach

Seoul is the capital city and offers a bustling urban experience with modern amenities and cultural attractions.
Busan is a coastal city that provides a blend of city life and beach relaxation.
Daegu is known for its rich history, traditional culture, and friendly local communities.
Jeju Island offers a more relaxed lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Intern placements are assigned based on qualifications and preferences, providing unique cultural experiences in each location.

Next Steps

Complete the 120-hour accredited TEFL course included in the internship program to gain teaching skills and confidence.
Submit your application early, ideally two to three months before the desired start date.
Prepare all required documents, including degree verification and criminal record checks, to ensure a smooth application process.
Stay in regular contact with Premier TEFL to receive updates and guidance throughout the program.

Conclusion: Start Teaching English in South Korea Today

A six-month Teaching English as a Foreign Language internship in South Korea with Premier TEFL is a great way to gain international teaching experience while exploring Korean culture. With accommodation, visa support, and a 120-hour TEFL course included, the program makes it easy for first-time teachers to get started. Apply early, prepare your documents, and take the first step toward an exciting teaching adventure.