Question 1

What is EPIK and how do I apply?

Accepted Answer

EPIK (English Program in Korea) is the South Korean government's flagship public school placement programme. Applications open twice yearly: September for March start and February for September start. The selection process includes a written application, interview, and document verification. EPIK places teachers in public elementary, middle, and high schools nationwide.

Question 2

How much do ESL teachers earn in South Korea?

Accepted Answer

EPIK and public school teachers earn KRW 1,800,000–2,650,000/month depending on education level. Hagwon teachers typically earn KRW 2,100,000–3,000,000/month. All standard contracts include a free furnished apartment, national health insurance, and a severance bonus (one month's salary) after completing the full contract.

Question 3

What is the E-2 visa and what documents do I need?

Accepted Answer

The E-2 is South Korea's English teacher work visa, restricted to passport holders from the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and South Africa. Required documents include: apostilled bachelor's degree, apostilled criminal background check (FBI for US citizens), health certificate, and signed employment contract.

Question 4

What is the difference between EPIK and a hagwon?

Accepted Answer

EPIK places teachers in government public schools with fixed working hours (8am–4:30pm, weekdays only), generous national holidays, and GEPIK/SMOE variants in major metro areas. Hagwons are private academies with afternoon/evening hours (1pm–10pm), higher base salaries, but more variable working conditions. Public schools offer more stability; hagwons often pay more.

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