Teaching Jobs in Busan, South Korea

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Do you want to teach English in Korea? Earn your accredited TEFL certification & receive lifetime job search guidance with International TEFL Academy. TEFL-certified English teachers in South Korea enjoy premium benefits like free housing & airfare and can save $1,000+ per month or more! ITA offer
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Teach English in South Korea and gain valuable international experience while living in one of Asia’s most dynamic countries. This program places you in public schools across the country, where you’ll work alongside local teachers to support students in developing their English skills. Placements a
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These schools are with the most prestigious organization here – EPIK – and it can provide you a platform into the teaching profession. Staff members at the school will have a background in education and it means that you will have a high learning curve. Apply through us and we will guide you throug
A Guide to Teaching Abroad in Busan
Teaching Positions in Busan
Those looking to teach English in Busan are expected to hold at least a bachelors degree in education or a related field. The application process can be extensive, however employers will be largely helpful in this process. Be prepared to submit a background check, resume, and letters of reference. Korean schools are looking to hire passionate and creative ESL teachers, especially public schools, and hiring committees take experience and educational background seriously.
Teachers are asked to participate in weekly meetings with other faculty to develop community and support. Foreign teachers are in many circumstances given a native Korean co-teacher to help with adjustment. Teaching responsibilities include but are not limited to teaching grammar, leading role plays, and leading extracurricular activities. English speaking natives are highly admired and respected in this culture and knowledge of Korean typically isn’t a requirement and in fact, desired in order to help students learn. While certain aspects of teaching jobs in Busan may be overwhelming at times, teachers are highly supported.
Life in Busan
Busan is bursting with natural beauty from mountains to the sea. With abundant adventure opportunities, the locals can be described as active. While there is a lot of joy in the outdoors, there is an equal amount of joy in shopping and luxury services. Daily life begins with eating and shopping and ends the same way. All of this leads to the fact that, there is never a dull moment in this diverse, rapidly developing city.
Teachers disguised as beach bums should plan for a few trips to South Korea’s most famous beach, Haeundae. Aside from the ample views of skyscrapers available while soaking in some rays, during peak season teachers can be joined by thousands of other waterfront fanatics from around the world. In addition, history buffs can't miss the opportunity to experience Seokbulsa Temple. This marvel carved into stone will leave teachers more informed on South Korea’s history and longing to know more.
For a well deserved break while teaching English in Busan, and time for self care, Shinsegae is an absolute must. This 5.5 million square foot shopping center sets a world record and will not only allow teachers to shop their hearts out, but also to spend some much needed relaxation time. Ice skating, sushi in the park, and massages are a few of the many activities it offers!
Expats, students, teachers, and enthusiastic locals alike find Busan to be less chaotic than South Korea’s capital, Seoul. Loved by all who visit, Busan is always full of energy and living every moment to the fullest.
Salaries & Costs
One of the benefits of teaching English in Busan is the rare opportunity hardly found anywhere else, an all inclusive package. Based on the high need of native English speakers, the government has made it their responsibility to assure that those coming to teach English in Busan are well cared for. While each school offers varied salaries, the average salary is $20,000 to $30,000 for a 30 hour per week schedule. These packages not only include pay but many benefits as well. Teaching packages also typically include a food stipend, health insurance, and paid holidays.
While costs are required for a majority of travel abroad programs, nearly all teaching jobs in Busan are cost free. Some employers may ask incoming teachers to cover their travel expenses, however most teaching jobs in Busan will cover that cost as well.
The cost of living in Busan can be considered higher than in other Asian countries, yet comparable to Western nations. The average cost of a cappuccino is $4.50, bottle water comes in around $1, and a movie ticket is around $10. It isn’t difficult for a teacher to live on a budget within the means of their salary. For some, bringing additional funds along allows for more flexible shopping and traveling during breaks. While there are countless benefits of teaching English in Busan, the financial packages alone are remarkable.
Accommodation & Visas
Nearly all teaching positions in Busan offer foreign staff living arrangements, typically in the form of a small apartment or studio. For many, these are right on the school’s premises so that travel to work is not necessary. In most of scenarios, furniture and household needs are included too. Be sure to read the fine print in your teaching contract to understand what you’ll be getting before signing on.
If you are considering teaching in Busan, you are amongst the privileged few. The visa process in South Korea is considerably more straightforward than many of the surrounding countries. If you are pursuing a teaching job in Busan that lasts less than 90 days, a travel visa can be received upon arrival. However, if your teaching position in Busan will be longer than 90 days, a work visa will be necessary.
This longer term visa can be obtained through the Korean Consulate in your home country. Work visas are administered for a one year period and can easily be extended in South Korea if you decide to teach English in Busan for a longer time period. Upon submission, be prepared to show the original copies of education documentation (i.e., diplomas, transcripts), photo copies are not acceptable as a way to prevent fraud. Only a passport will be needed to make the initial transition. While the application process for teaching positions in Busan is not difficult, aspiring teachers should apply at least three months prior to departure to ensure a smooth transition.
For those teaching abroad in Busan for 90 days or longer a document called an alien registration card is needed. This process is also easy to navigate and the card can be processed at an immigration office once on the ground in South Korea.
GoAbroad Insider Tips
Safety. While Busan is considered a large city, safety is not seen as a prevalent threat. Teachers are expected to use basic safety precautions, however, no drastic lifestyle changes need to take place. Many incoming foreigners question the relationship with North Korea. While it is currently a civil scenario, one would be advised to know where the embassy is located and have a basic plan of how to respond in case there is a period of unrest.
Food. Often food costs are moderate, which is a highlight of teaching English in Busan for Asian cuisine fanatics. However, foreign food is seen as pricey and not easily accessible. For those who have a hard time adapting to new foods, it is advised that the adjustment process begin prior to arrival. While this is not necessarily associated with teaching abroad in Busan, it is a part of daily life and a consideration to make before committing.
Expat Community. Teaching English in Busan comes with daily rewards and challenges. The good news is that while teaching in Busan, teachers will not be alone in this process. With the rise in English education and need for foreign teachers comes a large expat community. Teachers and tourists alike will find that there are organizations and activities to gather this community, develop friendships, and make the transition a whole lot easier.
Read our comprehensive guide on teaching abroad in South Korea.
Latest Program Reviews
Amazing program!!!!
August 25, 2026by: Dimitri Broughman - United StatesProgram: Teach English in South Korea with Housing & Flights
The EPIK program is honestly such an amazing opportunity. Having housing provided and all government benefits that public employees have is such a wonderful thing to have when making such a big transition to a foreign place. Having the support of a co-teacher as well is a very nice benefit as well!! Most importantly for me though, I just wanted to highlight how amazing and easy it has been working with RVF international!! The staff was so wonderful with helping me with the ENTIRE process from start to finish. I am 100% I would not have been as motivated to continue the application process if it were not for the help of RVF!! I would recommend the EPIK program to anyone, and I would double recommend working with and applying through RVF international!!
Experience applying to EPIK through RVF International
July 08, 2026by: Sarah Wilkins - United StatesProgram: Teach English in South Korea with Housing & Flights
In February of 2026 I decided I wanted to apply to teach English in South Korea for a year, and decided I would specifically apply using RVF International to help me. It was a great decision to use them because my advisor, Harrison Fowler, was very prompt in his responses to my questions, very encouraging about my application progress (as it does take some months before you are fully accepted into the program and there lots of steps in the application process), and always proactive about informing me on my application process and the next steps after passing a phase. He also included very specific, informative documents and examples of the application process phases/steps. I would not have been able to apply as easily or confidently without RVF International.
Preschool Childcare Director an twelve years as a four years preschool teacher
December 28, 2022by: Dara Garcia - United StatesProgram: Teach at Public Schools in South Korea with Korean Horizons
I have raised all my children my youngest one just finished the University of Nevada Las Vegas with a Criminology major and now will be working on her master's. Now it's my turn to live my life for myself and do what I love to do. It teaches preschool four years olds in Korea. That has been one of my dreams as many others have. Dara Ann Garcia

Great experience with Korean Horizons
September 02, 2020by: Gabby Palao - United StatesProgram: Teach at Public Schools in South Korea with Korean Horizons
I'm currently in my second year teaching in South Korea through GOE in the same position Korean Horizons helped me secure. Korean Horizons made everything from the very first steps in the application process, dealing with moving logistics, arriving in South Korea, and settling in very simple and straightforward. Alistair (of Korean Horizons) was very responsive, and went the extra mile to make the transition abroad as smooth as possible. I couldn't have asked for more support and communication than what he provided. If you're considering applying to teach in South Korea, I highly recommend going through Korean Horizons. You won't regret it!
I haven't looked back since!
March 26, 2020by: Sherilee Barnes Dunstan - South AfricaProgram: Teach at Public Schools in South Korea with Korean Horizons
It was not too long ago when I was too reading reviews on different recruiting agencies and now here I am! Choosing Korean Horizons to be apart of my journey to teach English in Korea was the best choice I made! Alistair was there from the beginning of the process to the very end and beyond. He guided me from filling out my application form to applying for my Visa. I cannot thank KH (Alistair) enough for all of his hard work, patience, dedication, commitment and his continued support throughout and beyond the whole process. If I had to somehow do this all over again, I would 1000% choose Korean Horizons. You won't regret it! :)
Great time!
March 19, 2020by: Sara M. - United StatesProgram: Teach at Public Schools in South Korea with Korean Horizons
I am glad I chose to teach abroad with Korean Horizons! I feel comfortable knowing Alistair is there for me. He made the entire process enjoyable. Even during my time in Korea he made sure I was doing okay. The information he gave me made my experience more enjoyable. I am very happy with my time teaching abroad.
Alistair is Incredibly Helpful!
March 18, 2020by: Abby Szunyogh - United StatesProgram: Teach at Public Schools in South Korea with Korean Horizons
Alistair was extremely helpful during my application process with EPIK. I found it especially helpful to be able to practice for my interview with him beforehand. He was able to point out some things to me that I never would have thought about. I think he really helped me strengthen my application. He also made it easy to understand what information needed to be submitted and when and answered all of my questions quickly and clearly. I highly recommend Alistair and Korean Horizons as a recruiter.
I couldn't be more glad that I chose EPIK and Korean Horizons :-)
March 16, 2020by: Olorato Thejane - South AfricaProgram: Teach at Public Schools in South Korea with Korean Horizons
There is no day that goes by that I'm not thankful for choosing Korean Horizons (KH) as my agency. If you are unsure on which agency to go with, I am here to tell you to choose KH and assure you that you won't regret that decision. Alistair was professional from the get go and went above and beyond to support us throughout this process. I appreciated his honesty and transparency with regards to the process of my application. I cannot even to begin to imagine how I would have made it into the EPIK program without Korean Horizons. I am here because of their relentless support and will be forever grateful.
I don't leave reviews....
March 16, 2020by: Kati Lambert - United StatesProgram: Teach at Public Schools in South Korea with Korean Horizons
But in this case I will gladly. KH or more specifically Alistair, did a great job of preparing me (and from what I've heard from other KH teachers, them as well) and making sure I had everything I needed to teach here in South Korea. Even when we got here he did not stop reaching out and making sure we knew he is around if you have any questions or need any support while you are in another country. I've spoken to other teachers that went through different agencies and they were a little jealous of what he does for us. I 100% would recommend KH to anyone that wanted to teach in South Korea. You will be taken care of that much is sure.
Work with Korean Horizons, you won't regret it!!
March 05, 2020by: Erin Boyd - United StatesProgram: Teach at Public Schools in South Korea with Korean Horizons
I can truthfully say that Alistair/Korean Horizons really is as great as everyone says. He works with you from the very first to the very last step of the entire process and is available all the time to answer questions or provide guidance. At some point, I was probably annoying with how many questions I was sending him, but he always replied quickly and kindly. The process can be daunting and difficult (and long!), but he makes it seem easy. The reason their success rate is so high is because Alistair really goes out of his way to make sure that you're fully prepared for each step as it comes, so I wasn't nearly as stressed about things like the interview as others were because I felt really prepared going into it. Another cool aspect of working with Korean Horizons is the community that you get to be a part of before you even come to Korea. It was so nice being able to meet a bunch of other teachers like me on social media (facilitated by Alistair) and then to arrive a day early and spend some time with them before we met EPIK and the other incoming teachers, and I felt like I made some really good friends that will stick with me during my time in Korea. I've had such a positive experience overall and I'm really thankful for all of Alistair's help. I really can't recommend Korean Horizons highly enough if you want to come work in South Korea!
Recommended recruiting agency
March 04, 2020by: Amy Wilmot - South AfricaProgram: Teach at Public Schools in South Korea with Korean Horizons
When deciding to move to the other side of the world, it can feel nerve-wracking and somewhat overwhelming. But Alistair and Korean Horizons definitely helped to ease the overwhelmingness of everything. He answered all questions that I had and was always available when needed. He also ensured that all the documents that I sent were correct and that I was in the loop about the process, every step of the way. I would definitely recommend Korean Horizons for anyone that is interested in teaching in South Korea.
Honestly I cannot recommend KH enough
March 03, 2020by: Viv Ayeh - United KingdomProgram: Teach at Public Schools in South Korea with Korean Horizons
As the title says, I really cannot recommend Alistair from Korean Horizons enough. He is all you could ask for and more in regards to a recruiter for applying to EPIK. Alistair walks you through every stage of the process from the application to getting to the EPIK orientation. The EPIK process is long, complicated and stressful, but working with Alistair I have never felt like I lacked information, help or support! Honestly, if you are reading or have read these reviews you already know that Alistair is your guy!
Most loyal recruiter ever!
March 03, 2020by: Ashleigh van Niekerk - AustraliaProgram: Teach at Public Schools in South Korea with Korean Horizons
I've been looking for a job with Alistair and Korean Horizons since July of 2019 and he has helped me immensely. He truly tries his best and doesn't give up on people, every step of the way he is ready to assist. He gives tips on just about everything from lesson planning to practicing the interview with you. You will for sure feel secure and ready to teach! So far I'm loving my placement in Dalseong-gun Daegu, I feel very comfortable and at home. Thank you Alistair I wouldn't of got here without your help! If you are needing a little extra support I would go with a recruiter and I cannot suggest Korean Horizons enough.
Glad I chose a recruiter!
March 02, 2020by: Jasmine Williams - United StatesProgram: Teach at Public Schools in South Korea with Korean Horizons
I thought about directly applying for a teaching position, but after going through the process with Korean Horizons, I realize exactly how much we have to accomplish before being considered for hire and even after that! Alistair kept me on track and provided a group that helps answer many questions we may have about the application process. I asked questions all the way up to the orientation date. I sure I would have been either lost or behind if I didn't have help. Now, I am at my school(s) and happy to start at the beginning of the school year!
Look no further, this is your best choice!
March 02, 2020by: Juelle Cummins - United StatesProgram: Teach at Public Schools in South Korea with Korean Horizons
Working with Alistair from Korean Horizons was hands down the best experience I could have hoped for. From the initial conversation, to the day I left on the bus for the Winter 2020 EPIK orientation, Alistair was there to not only encourage me, but to also put things into a realistic perspective. I found out just how blessed I was when I heard some of the stories from my peers during the orientation. Alistair works tirelessly to support all of his candidates, including myself. He also is very communicative, both one on one and on the Facebook group. If you are looking for someone who will be straightforward, will walk you through the process, work with you on your interview skills and still be there for you even after their mission has been completed, then you need to choose Korean Horizons.
Great support to ease you into a foreign land
March 01, 2020by: Jateen Hansjee - South AfricaProgram: Teach at Public Schools in South Korea with Korean Horizons
Alistair works tirelessly to provide support and has a meticulous attention to detail. At each step he provides guidance, so you don't feel lost or worried. Unlike other recruiters, the support is not only when you are in your home country but continues throughout your stay. Going through Korean Horizons was also a great way to meet people from the moment you land in South Korea.
Korean Horizons goes above and beyond!
March 01, 2020by: Heather Steinson - United KingdomProgram: Teach at Public Schools in South Korea with Korean Horizons
Alistair is one of the best recruiters I've ever had and has regularly ensured my experiences in South Korea have been free of major problems. His diligence and consideration makes applying through Korean Horizons significantly less stressful as his clear and concise instructions ensured my application progressed quickly and steadily. Cannot thank Alistair and Korean Horizons enough for all the help they've given me in jump starting my teaching career in South Korea. If you're looking for an agency to apply through, you've found it. Go through Korean Horizons.
Korean Horizons is 10/10
March 01, 2020by: Eleanor Orchard - AustraliaProgram: Teach at Public Schools in South Korea with Korean Horizons
Alistair from Korean Horizons is incredible at his job. He goes above and beyond to help you but also remains realistic. He explains situations clearly and doesn't make false promises. If you listen to his advice and make sure you communicate with him about what you want out of the program and your circumstances, he is the best possible person to help you get the job. He is extremely hardworking and personable. He is so helpful and generous with his time. If you really want to teach in South Korea, 100% recommend contacting Korean Horizons. The process is long and sometimes complicated, but Korean Horizons make it manageable and fun.
Smooth sailing
March 01, 2020by: Jennifer Cuomo - United StatesProgram: Teach at Public Schools in South Korea with Korean Horizons
Alistair from Korean Horizons has been the greatest help throughout the entire process Of teaching abroad , from my application , to the interview to answering any questions i may have had. I felt safe to ask questions and express concerns . You will truly feel like there is someone on your side rooting for you the entire time . I truly feel very lucky that i chose Korean Horizons. I never review anything but this was a really meaningful experience for me . If i had to go through it all again i wouldn't change anything . Alistair is the best !
Seamless journey abroad!
March 01, 2020by: Marco Bombino - CanadaProgram: Teach at Public Schools in South Korea with Korean Horizons
This is my first trip going abroad to teach and it was very daunting at first. However, going through an agency such as Korean Horizons made it a seamless transition. They break everything down step-by-step which makes it fool proof. Even with the 1,000,000 questions you throw Alistair's way he finds a way to give you quick responses so you are not waiting around. I could not have imagined doing this all on my own and will only use agencies such as KH going forward. My only negative is with the EPIK program specifically as they ignored my preferences and gave me the complete opposite of what I was looking for. I get they can't accommodate everyone but I was one of the first people accepted for this intake. I'm also over an hour bus away from any other English teachers/ expats which is a bit disappointing but at least I am right near the beach! Other than that, it was a great experience.
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