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Teaching English in South Korea - New Opportunities for Online Instructors

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Requirements to teach English in Korea

Teaching English as a foreign language in South Korea has long been a popular choice for graduates seeking to immerse themselves in a rich cultural experience while sharing their language skills. In recent years, the landscape of English teaching in Korea has undergone significant changes, and a recent development has opened up exciting new opportunities for aspiring educators.

The Act on the Establishment and Operation of Private Teaching Institutes and Extracurricular Lessons is set to be amended, signaling a shift in the requirements for foreign language teachers. In this blog post, we will explore the latest change, which eliminates the need for a bachelor's degree to teach online for Korean private schools and its impact on prospective teachers.

The New Requirement: Bachelor's Degree No Longer Necessary for Online Teaching

Under the revised legislation, foreigners who wish to teach online foreign language classes at hagwons, also known as cram schools, will no longer face stricter education requirements compared to their Korean counterparts. The amendment, slated to take effect in the fourth quarter of this year, brings about a significant shift in the eligibility criteria for teaching English online in South Korea.

Previously, possessing a bachelor's degree was a prerequisite for foreign language instructors in Korean private schools. This requirement often posed a challenge for those who, while still in their final year of university study, sought to gain practical teaching experience and share their language proficiency. However, with the upcoming amendment, candidates who are enrolled in their junior year or above at a four-year university can now enjoy this opportunity, as well as those who have graduated from a vocational university with a two or three-year curriculum.

Expanding Opportunities and Broadening Inclusion

The new regulation reflects the South Korean government's commitment to expanding opportunities and promoting inclusivity in the field of English education. By removing the barrier of a bachelor's degree requirement for online teaching positions, the government aims to attract a diverse pool of talented teachers, allowing for a more inclusive and dynamic learning environment.

This amendment recognizes that qualifications and skills go beyond formal degrees and acknowledges the value of experience and expertise acquired through alternative educational pathways. It provides aspiring teachers with the chance to gain valuable teaching experience while still completing their undergraduate studies, contributing to their personal and professional growth.

Benefits for Prospective Teachers

The removal of the bachelor's degree requirement for online teaching positions in Korean private schools brings several benefits for prospective teachers. Firstly, it opens up a wider range of opportunities for those who may not have met the previous criteria but possess a genuine passion for teaching and sharing their language skills. It enables them to start their teaching journey earlier and gain valuable practical experience while completing their education.

Additionally, the flexibility of teaching online offers convenience and accessibility. As an online instructor, you can work from the comfort of your own home or any location with a stable internet connection. This eliminates the need for geographical constraints and provides teachers with the freedom to create their own schedules.

ESLstarter offers a wide range of teaching jobs in Korea. To get started with an application, please contact our team today!


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