Apply to teach in Korea at a public school
If you have a thirst for travel, want to teach on a well established, government program and hold a Bachelor's degree, why not teach English at a public school in Korea! 💚✨
Teach English in Korea's public schools
Join EPIK, the government-sponsored English Program in Korea, with a flight allowance, full orientation and no placement fee through ESLstarter.
Public school teaching jobs in Korea
EPIK places English teachers in public primary and secondary schools across South Korea, from Seoul and Busan to beach towns and quiet rural communities. You'll teach up to 22 lessons a week alongside a Korean co-teacher, with full training before you start.
It's one of the most stable and best-paid starter jobs in Asia. Housing is free, so most teachers save a good share of their salary, and you don't need any previous teaching experience to apply.
Your EPIK package
Figures for the current intake. Exact amounts depend on your region and qualification level.
Monthly salary, set by region and qualifications
Furnished single apartment, or a rent subsidy where housing isn't available
Entrance allowance towards your flight, varies by region
Exit allowance when you finish, plus a bonus if you renew
Settlement allowance to help you set up
Severance pay at the end of your contract
Summer and winter vacation plus Korean national holidays
National health insurance and pension, half paid by your employer
Training on arrival and a co-teacher in your classroom
Who can apply?
- A bachelor's degree in any subject
- A TEFL or TESOL certificate of 100+ hours (you can apply while you're studying)
- A passport from the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or South Africa
- A clean criminal record check
- No teaching experience needed
No TEFL yet? Our partner TEFL UK's 120-hour course meets EPIK's requirement. It's online, from just £63, and many people finish in 3–4 weeks.
Get TEFL certified from £63Where you could teach
- Busan
- Chungbuk
- Chungnam
- Daegu
- Daejeon
- Gangwon
- Gwangju
- Gyeongbuk
- Gyeongnam
- Incheon
- Jeju
- Jeonbuk
- Jeonnam
- Seoul
- Ulsan
Set on Seoul? See our teaching jobs in Seoul.
How it works
Apply with ESLstarter
Send the form below. We'll check your eligibility and documents.
Prepare your application
We help you polish your application and get your paperwork ready.
Interview
A video interview with EPIK, with tips from us beforehand.
Visa and placement
Receive your offer and apply for your E-2 visa with our support.
Fly to Korea
Orientation, then your first classes in spring or autumn.
I'm teaching and living in the north of Seoul and have loved every single day so far. The teaching is fun, all my new friends are amazing and Seoul is a great place to live!
Pete Christie, Seoul · Read more teacher stories
EPIK questions, answered
How much do EPIK teachers earn?
EPIK teachers earn around KRW 2.1 to 2.8 million a month depending on region, qualifications and experience. On top of salary you receive free furnished housing, a settlement allowance, an entrance allowance towards your flight and a completion bonus.
Do I need a TEFL to teach in Korea with EPIK?
Yes, in practice. Unless you hold a teaching licence or an education degree, EPIK asks for a TEFL or TESOL certificate of at least 100 hours. You can apply while you study, as long as you're certified before you arrive.
Do I need teaching experience for EPIK?
No. EPIK welcomes first-time teachers with a degree and a TEFL certificate. You'll have full orientation on arrival and a Korean co-teacher in your classes.
When does EPIK start?
There are two main intakes: spring (February to March) and autumn (August to September). Places fill quickly, so it's best to apply several months ahead.
Does ESLstarter charge a fee for EPIK?
No. Our recruitment service for EPIK is completely free for teachers.
Can I choose where I teach in Korea?
You can give your preferred regions when you apply, and we'll help you target the locations that suit you. Final placements are made by EPIK and the regional education offices.
Ready to teach in Korea?
Applications are open for the next intake. It takes five minutes, and our service is free.
