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How to Find Your Immigration Office in Korea

by Embark Recruiting

Visa and Immigration Guide (1/14)

How to Find Your Immigration Office in Korea

List of Local Immigration Offices in Korea and their Jurisdictions Immigration Call Center: 1345 Office Name Address Jurisdiction Area(s) Andong Multicultural Immigrants Center Gyeongdong-ro 1375, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (National Andong Univ. Welfare Bldg. #201) North Gyeongsang Province: Andong City, Youngju City, Bonghwa-gun, Youngyang-gun, Yecheon-gun, Uiseong-gun, Cheongsong-gun Ansan Immigration Office 88 Gwangdeok4-ro, Danwon-gu, Ansan-si, Gyeonggi Province Gyeonggi Province: Ansan City, Siheung City, Anyang City, Gunpo City, Gwangmyeong City Ansan Multicultural Immigrants Center Bubu-ro 43, Danwon-gu, Ansan-si, Gyeonggi Gyeonggi Province: Ansan City, Siheung City, Anyang City, Gunpo City, Gwangmyeong City Asan Multicultural Immigrants Center Sijang-gil 29, Asan-si, Chungcheongnam-do South Chungcheong Province: Cheonan City, Asan City, Yesan City Busan Immigration Office Chungjangdae-ro 22-1, Jung-gu, Busan Busan Metropolitan City; South Gyeongsang Province: Yangsan City Busan Immigration Office Gamcheon Branch Busan International Fish Market, 761, Amnamdong, Seo-gu, Busan Gamcheon Harbor, Dadaepo Harbor, Busan Busan Immigration Office Gimhae Branch Garak-ro 58, Gimhae-si, Gyeongsangnam-do South Gyeongsang Province: Gimhae City, Miryang City Changwon Immigration Office Je2budu-ro 30, Masanhappo-gu, Changwon-si, Gyeongsangnam-do South Gyeongsang Province (except Gimhae, Miryang, Yangsan, Tongyoung, Sacheon, Geoje, Namhae, Hadong) Changwon Immigration Office Geoje Branch Yeonsa1-gil 24, Yeoncho-myeon, Geoje-si, Gyeongsangnam-do South Gyeongsang Province: Geoje City Changwon Immigration Office Sacheon Branch Samcheonpodaegyo-ro 450, Sacheon-si, Gyeongsangnam-do South Gyeongsang Province: Sacheon City, Namhae-gun, Hadong-gun Changwon Immigration Office Tongyoung Branch Nammang-gil 5, Tongyoung-si, Gyeongsangnam-do South Gyeongsang Province: Tongyoung City Cheonan Multicultural Immigrants Center Beodeul-ro 40, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan-si, Chungcheongnam-do South Chungcheong Province: Cheonan City, Asan City, Yesan City Cheongju Immigration Office Biharo 12beon-gil, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do North Chungcheong Province (except Youngdong-gun, Okcheon-gun) Chuncheon Immigration Office Saamgil-12, Dongnae-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do Gangwon Special Self-governing Province (except Donghae, Gangneung, Samcheok, Sokcho, Taebaek, Gosung, Yangyang, Jeongseon, Cheolwon) Chuncheon Immigration Office Donghae Branch Haean-ro 225, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do Gangwon Special Self-governing Province: Donghae City, Gangneung City, Samcheok City, Taebaek City, Jeongseon-gun Chuncheon Immigration Office Sokcho Branch Cheongchohoban-ro 189, Sokcho-si, Gangwon-do Gangwon Special Self-governing Province: Sokcho City, Gosung-gun, Yangyang-gun Daegu Immigration Office Innovaley-ro 345, Dong-gu, Daegu Daegu Metropolitan City; North Gyeongsang Province (except Pohang, Ulleung, Youngdeok, Uljin, Gumi, Gimcheon, Sangju, Chilgok, Mungyeong, Gyeongju) Daegu Immigration Office Gumi Branch Gumidae-ro 350-27, Gumi-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do North Gyeongsang Province: Gumi City, Gimcheon City, Sangju City, Chilgok-gun, Mungyeong City Daegu Immigration Office Pohang Branch Uchangdong-ro 135, Bu-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do North Gyeongsang Province: Pohang City, Ulleung-gun, Youngdeok-gun, Uljin-gun Daejeon Immigration Office Mokjungro 26beon-gil 7, Jung-gu, Daejeon Daejeon Metropolitan City; Sejong City; North Chungcheong Province (Youngdong-gun, Okcheon-gun); South Chungcheong Province (except Cheonan, Asan, Yesan, Seosan, Taean, Dangjin, Hongsung) Daejeon Immigration Office Cheonan Branch Gwangjang-ro 215, Seobuk-gu, Cheonan-si, Chungcheongnam-do South Chungcheong Province: Cheonan City, Asan City, Yesan City Daejeon Immigration Office Dangjin Branch Godaegongdan 2-gil 29-33, Songak-eup, Dangjin-si, Chungcheongnam-do South Chungcheong Province: Dangjin City Daejeon Immigration Office Seosan Branch Eupnae-ro 28, Seosan-si, Chungcheongnam-do South Chungcheong Province: Seosan City, Taean-gun, Hongseong-gun Eumsung Multicultural Immigrants Center Guemseok-ro 71, Guemwang-eup, Eumsung-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do North Chungcheong Province (except Youngdong-gun, Okcheon-gun) Gimpo Multicultural Immigrants Center Hwanggeum-ro 110beon-gil 52, Yangchon-eup, Gimpo-si, Gyeonggi Incheon Metropolitan City; Gyeonggi Province: Bucheon City, Gimpo City Gwangju Immigration Office Sangmudaero 911beon-gil 22, Seo-gu, Gwangju Gwangju Metropolitan City; South Jeolla Province (except Mokpo, Yeosu, Suncheon, Gwangyang, Sinan-gun, Muan-gun, Jindo-gun, Haenam-gun, Wando-gun, Yeongam-gun Gwangju Immigration Office Mokpo Branch Baeknyeondaero 412beon-gil 26, Mokpo-si, Jeollanam-do South Jeolla Province: Mokpo City, Yeosu City, Suncheon City, Gwangyang City, Sinan-gun, Muan-gun, Jindo-gun, Haenam-gun, Wando-gun, Yeongam-gun Iksan Multicultural Immigrants Center Iksandae-ro 153, Iksan-si, Jeollabuk-do (Iksan Sta. 4F) Jeonbuk Special Self-governing Province (except Gunsan City) Incheon Immigration Office Seohaedae-ro 393, Jung-gu, Incheon Incheon Metropolitan City; Gyeonggi Province: Bucheon City, Gimpo City Jeju Immigration Office Yongdam-ro 3, Jeju-si, Jeju Jeju Special Self-governing Province Jeonju Immigration Office Dongbudae-ro 857, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do Jeonbuk Special Self-governing Province (except Gunsan City) Seoul Immigration Office Mokdongdong-ro 151, Yangcheon-gu, Seoul Seoul: Gwanak-gu, Gwangjin-gu, Gangnam-gu, Gangdong-gu, Dongjak-gu, Songpa-gu, Seongdong-gu, Seocho-gu, Yongsan-gu; Gyeonggi Province: Gwacheon-si, Seongnam-si, Hanam-si Seoul Immigration Office Sejong-ro Branch Jong-ro 38, Jongno-gu, Seoul Seoul: Eunpyeong-gu, Jongno-gu, Jung-gu, Dongdaemun-gu, Seongbuk-gu, Gangbuk-gu, Dobong-gu, Nowon-gu, Jungnang-gu Seoul Nambu Immigration Office Magokseo 1-ro 48, Gangseo-gu, Seoul Seoul: Gangseo-gu, Guro-gu, Geumcheon-gu, Mapo-gu, Seodaemun-gu, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Yangcheon-gu Siheung Multicultural Immigrants Center Gongdandaero 259beon-gil 5, Siheung-si, Gyeonggi Gyeonggi Province: Ansan City, Siheung City, Anyang City, Gunpo City, Gwangmyeong City Suwon Immigration Office Pyeongtaek Port Branch 155-40, Hamanho-gil, Poseung-eup, Pyeongtaek-si, Gyeonggi-do Pyeongtaek Port (excluding Osan Military Airfield), Pyeongtaek City Suwon Immigration Office Bandal-ro 39, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi Province Gyeonggi Province: Uiwang City, Suwon City, Yongin City, Icheon City, Hwaseong City, Gwangju City, Yangpyeong-gun, Yeoju City, Dongtan Suwon Immigration Office Pyeongtaek Branch Gyeonggidae-ro 1375, Pyeongtaek-si, Gyeonggi Province Gyeonggi Province: Pyeongtaek City, Anseong City, Osan City Ulsan Immigration Office Jongga-ro 405-1, Jung-gu, Ulsan Ulsan Metropolitan City; North Gyeongsang Province: Gyeongju City Yangju Immigration Office Pyeonghwaro 1475beon-gil, Yangju-si, Gyeonggi Province Gyeonggi Province: Uijeongbu City, Dongducheon City, Guri City, Namyangju City, Yangju City, Pocheon City, Yeoncheon-gun; Gangwon Province: Cheolwon-gun Yangju Immigration Office Goyang Branch Hwajungro 104beon-gil 50, Deokyang-gu, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi Province Gyeonggi Province: Goyang City, Paju City Yeosu Immigration Office Museon-ro 265, Yeosu-si, Jellanam-do South Jeolla Province: Yeosu City, Suncheon City Yeosu Immigration Office Gwangyang Branch Jungdong 2-gil 23, Gwangyang-si, Jellanam-do South Jeolla Province: Gwangyang City Youngdeungpo Multicultural Immigrants Center Dosin-ro 40, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul Seoul: Gangseo-gu, Guro-gu, Geumcheon-gu, Mapo-gu, Seodaemun-gu, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Yangcheon-gu Want to Confirm your Local Immigration Office? Refer to Hi Korea Office Directory Hi Korea features an English directory of immigration offices across Korea. It is important to know which office serves your area because you must go there to apply for your residence card, extend your visa, and handle other immigration matters. Use your place of residence (address) in Korea or your employer/school's address when finding your local immigration office. Note: For F-visa holders, it is recommended to use YOUR place of residence. 1. Navigate the Hi Korea Office Directory Visit the Hi Korea website (English version). Click the “Information Lookup” tab. Under the “Other Services" section, select "Office Directory.” Source: Hi Korea 2. Search for Your Immigration Office If you do not know the name of your immigration office, select your province, metropolitan city, or region in the "Category Area" (e.g., Seoul). Then check the jurisdiction area to see if your city or district (gu) is covered. If you already know the name of your office, simply enter it in the “Organization Name” field and click "Search." Source: Hi Korea 3. Find Your Immigration Office Quickly Use Ctrl+F (Windows) or Command+F (Mac) to quickly search for your city (시), county (군), or district (구). For example, search for “Siheung" if you live in Siheung (under jurisdiction of the Ansan Immigration Office). Click the office name for more detailed information. Take note of the Office Name, Address, and Phone Number. Source: Hi Korea

How to Find Your Ministry of Education (MOE) Office in Korea

by Embark Recruiting

Resources and Forms (1/29)

How to Find Your Ministry of Education (MOE) Office in Korea

What is the Ministry of Education (MOE)? The Ministry of Education (MOE) is the government body responsible for education in Korea. It oversees public schools, private education institutes such as language academies and private schools, cyber education, lifelong learning programs, universities, and educational districts. Understanding the MOE’s policies and services is important because it supervises all workplaces eligible to sponsor E-2 visas for native English teachers. Teachers must complete registration with the local Office of Education within 15 days of their start date. You can check whether your job is registered with the Ministry of Education Source: Ministry of Education How to Find Your Local MOE Office Your MOE office is determined by where you teach in Korea. For example, if your school is located in Yongin city, Gyeonggi-do, than your MOE would be the Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education. Korea’s education system is organized around 17 Metropolitan and Provincial Offices of Education, each aligned with one of the country’s 17 first-level administrative divisions. These divisions include: 1 Special City (Seoul) 6 Metropolitan Cities (Busan, Daegu, Incheon, Gwangju, Daejeon, Ulsan) 1 Special Self-Governing City (Sejong) 8 Provinces (Gyeonggi, Gangwon, Chungbuk, Chungnam, Jeonbuk, Jeonnam, Gyeongbuk, Gyeongnam) 1 Special Self-Governing Province (Jeju) There are also 176 local (lower-level) Offices of Education operating under these, but for purposes of the E-2 visa, the primary authority you will interact with is your regional Metropolitan or Provincial Office of Education. Source: Ministry of Education Related Blog: How to Report Your Job to the Office of Education for Native English Teachers in Korea

How to Register with the Office of Education

by Embark Recruiting

Resources and Forms (1/29)

How to Register with the Office of Education

All teachers in Korea are required to register their employment with the local Office of Education within 15 days of starting work. This registration ensures that your employment is officially recognized by the Ministry of Education (MOE) and helps maintain compliance with Korean education and labor regulations. A key part of this process is obtaining a Criminal Record Check conducted in Korea. This certificate must show no history of international sex offenses or child abuse and is mandatory for teachers working with minors. How to Apply for a Korean Criminal Record Check The school will handle most of the criminal record check process. Please do not prepare your apostilled degree or background check again. If asked, you can request copies from your local immigration office in Korea by submitting a “Request for Information Disclosure. Document(s) Details (1) Notarized & Apostilled Copy of Degree • You DO NOT need to prepare apostilled documents again. • Instead, request copies from your local Korean Immigration Office by submitting a “Request for Information Disclosure.” (1) Apostilled Nationwide Criminal Background • You DO NOT need to prepare apostilled documents again. • Instead, request copies from your local Korean Immigration Office by submitting a “Request for Information Disclosure.” (1) Application Form • This form will be prepared by the school (1) Agreement/Consent Form • This form will be prepared by the school (1) Original Residence Card (RC) • Hand the Residence Card to your school Original Passport • Valid for at least 6 months (recommend 13 months) (1) Standard ID Photo • Photo size (3 x 4cm). • Must be taken within the last 6 months • White background • No computer scans or color copies Korean Criminal Record Check Procedure Note: Normally, the school will handle this on its own, but in rare cases, you may be asked to accompany a staff member. 1. Visit in Person / Apply Online Go to the local Korean police station in person to apply. The school could also apply online through the Criminal Records Information System website. Source: Criminal Records Information System 2. Document Submission Submit your application and all required documents. 3. Certificate Issuance Once the police complete the check, the certificate is sent back to the requesting party. It is issued immediately upon receipt. Processing can take an hour to a day. How to Report to the Employment to the Office of Education Teachers must register with the local Office of Education within 15 days of their start date. Please reach out to your school or local Office of Education with any questions. Note: Normally, the school will handle this on its own, but in rare cases, you may be asked to accompany a staff member. General Required Documents for Reporting to the Office of Education Document(s) Details (1) Notarized & Apostilled Copy of Degree • You DO NOT need to prepare apostilled documents again. • Instead, request copies from your local Korean Immigration Office by submitting a “Request for Information Disclosure.” (1) Apostilled Nationwide Criminal Background • You DO NOT need to prepare apostilled documents again. • Instead, request copies from your local Korean Immigration Office by submitting a “Request for Information Disclosure.” (1) Teacher Employment Registration Form •This form will be prepared by the school (1) Criminal Record Check •This form will be prepared by the school (1) Medical Examination Report • Must include drug test results (cocaine, opiates, cannabinoids, methoxyphenamine) • Completed within 1 month of application • Must be in a SEALED envelope (1) Original Residence Card or Photocopy • Print Visa Grant Notice on “Korea Visa Portal.” (1) Original Passport or Photocopy • Valid for at least 6 months (recommend 13 months) (1) Standard ID Photo • Photo size (3 x 4cm). • Must be taken within the last 6 months • White background • No computer scans or color copies Related Blog: How to Check if Your Job is Registered with the Ministry of Education (MOE)

How to Apostille and Notarize Documents | Korea Visa Guide

by Embark Recruiting

Visa and Immigration Guide (1/14)

How to Apostille and Notarize Documents | Korea Visa Guide

When applying to teach in Korea, one of the most important parts of the visa process is proving that your academic and legal documents are genuine. Korean schools and immigration offices cannot directly verify paperwork issued in another country, so they require your documents to go through a formal authentication process in your home country. Apostille An apostille is a certificate that authenticates a document for use in a foreign country that is a member of the 1961 Hague Convention. It certifies the authenticity of the signature, seal, and position of the official who signed or certified a public document, ensuring the document is valid in other member countries. Notarization Notarization is when a notary public checks your identity and confirms that a document is genuine. Many documents need to be notarized before they can receive an apostille. What Documents You Must Apostille and Notarize to Teach in Korea To apply for the E-2-1 visa (“Foreign Language Instructor”), candidates must prepare the following documents: 1. Apostille and Notarized Copy of your Bachelor's Degree 4-year degree from an accredited university issued in one of the native English-speaking countries (U.S.A., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, England, Ireland, and South Africa) Additional degrees (M.A., M.S., PhD) typically do not require notarization or apostille unless specifically requested Must be issued within 6 months before the visa submission date Note: Please notarize and apostille a COPY of your DIPLOMA, as you will not receive the document back once you submit it to your school. 2. Apostille of your National-level Background Check Verify that you have a clean criminal record and have not committed any serious crimes. Must be issued within 6 months before the visa submission date 3. (OPTIONAL) Additional Documents You may be asked to provide extra documents depending on the school. If any of these are not in English or Korean, you will need to submit a notarized translation with an apostille attached. Name change certificate Teaching license or certification Reference letters Police checks from previous countries of residence Why Background Checks Don’t Need Notarization, But Degrees Do Your national criminal background check is already issued and signed by a government agency. Since it already has an authorized government signature and seal, it does not need separate notarization. Degrees, on the other hand, are issued by universities, so a copy of your degree must be notarized first to confirm it’s a true and accurate copy of the original before it can be apostilled. See our Country Guides for Notarization & Apostille Documents United States United Kingdom Canada South Africa Australia Ireland New Zealand

E-2 Visa General Documents and Timeline for Korea | Korea Visa Guide

by Embark Recruiting

Visa and Immigration Guide (1/14)

E-2 Visa General Documents and Timeline for Korea | Korea Visa Guide

When preparing your E-2 visa application, there are two sets of documents to keep in mind. The first set includes general documents that are required for the VIN application, which your school submits to the Korean Immigration Office. The second set includes documents specific to the consulate or embassy in your home country where you will apply for your visa. General Timeline for an E-2 Visa Step 1. VIN Application Once your school submits the VIN application, processing typically takes 15 business days (about 1–3 weeks), though this can vary depending on the region and time of year. Step 2. E-2 Visa Application The processing time at Korean consulates and embassies varies by region and season, but it generally takes 5–15 business days. If you want to know how to check the VIN and/or visa application progress, see our guide on how to navigate the Korea Visa Portal. Step 1. Visa Issuance Number (VIN) Application To apply for an E-2-1 visa, you must first obtain a Visa Issuance Number (VIN). To get this number, you’ll need to prepare documents to send to your school. Your school will submit both your documents and its own to the Korean immigration office. Once the application is processed, you will receive your Confirmation of Visa Issuance Number (CVI No.) or simply a confirmation number, which you will use to apply for your visa at the Korean consulate in your country. If you have a desired start date for teaching in Korea, begin preparing your visa documents 2 months in advance. Early preparation helps prevent last-minute issues for both you and your school. We recommend arriving in March or September, as these are the busiest hiring periods when schools begin their spring and fall semesters. While teaching positions are available year-round, March and September offer the greatest number of job opportunities. For a March start: Start preparing documents/Interview with Schools: December ~ January Sign a Contract with a School: December ~ February Have documents ready by: Late January ~ Early February 1.1. - Required Documents for VIN: When to Prepare Document(s) Details Before School Interview (1) Apostilled FBI Criminal Record Check • Must be issued within 6 months before the visa submission date. • Must be a clean national police check issued by the FBI, and should be apostilled by the Department of State. Before School Interview (1) Notarized + Apostilled Copy of your Bachelor’s Degree • Must be issued within 6 months before the visa submission date. • Submit a notarized copy of your degree, NOT THE ORIGINAL (will not receive document back). • Attach a federal-level apostille • Additional degrees typically do not require notarization or apostille unless specifically requested. Before School Interview (1) E-2 Visa Health Statement • Print the self-health statement and fill it out by hand. • Be honest, as you must complete a physical health exam in Korea within 15 days of your start date. • If you are taking medication, inform your recruiter/school as it may affect your eligibility to work. • Exam includes drug screening tests (cocaine, opiates, cannabinoids, methoxyphenamine) After School Interview / Contract (1) Photocopy of Your Passport • Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your contract start date. (We recommend at least 13 months of validity to cover the full year.) • Information must be clear and readable After School Interview/Contract (6) Official Passport-sized Photos • Photo size (2 x 2 in. / 3.5 x 4.5 cm). • Must be taken within the last 6 months • White background • No computer scans or color copies •Must prepare at least 6 photos in total for upcoming steps (We recommend at least 12 photos to cover other applications/uses in Korea.) After School Interview/Contract (1) Visa Application Form • Fill out sections 1 – 7. • Please do not write your signature. After School Interview/Contract (1) Signed Employment Contract • Contract signed by YOU and the SCHOOL. • Must list the minimum wage for the relevant year (annual income amount). After School Interview/Contract (1) Copy of Your Resume • Submit the resume you had sent to your school. • List all relevant teaching and international experience, if applicable.fs 1.2. - VIN Documents Procedure Step 1. Email Apostilled Document Photos for Review (Before School Interview) Before mailing any physical documents, please send clear photos or scans of all your apostilled and notarized documents by email to Embark Recruiting for review. This step ensures we can check for any errors and prevent delays in your visa process. Also, let us know if you are taking any medication or have any physical or mental health conditions. Step 2. Mail Your Original Documents to Korea (After School Interview + Contract) Once you have signed a work contract with the school, please send us all the documents via DHL Express. Please email your recruiter the DHL tracking number so we can monitor the delivery status. Note: Using any shipping service other than DHL Express may cause delays in visa processing. Step 3. School Submits Documents to Immigration or Korea Visa Portal We will forward your documents to the school. The school will submit all paperwork, including their business license, school registration, and instructor operational plan, directly to the Korean Immigration Office or through the online Korea Visa Portal. Visa processing typically takes 7 to 10 working days after submission. (If additional documents or verification are needed during the review, processing may take longer.) Step 4. Receive Your Confirmation of Visa Issuance Number (CVI No.) Once your visa issuance number (VIN) is ready, Embark will notify you through the school and send you a “Receipt Number.” You must apply for your visa at your Korean embassy or consulate within 90 days of receiving your VIN. You can view your Confirmation of Visa Issuance Number (CVI No.) and print your Visa Issuance Certificate on the Korea Visa Portal. Step 5. Navigate Korea Visa Portal Go to the Korea Visa Portal site. Click the language option in the top right and select English. If it is already in English, ignore this step Source: Korea Visa Portal On the left menu, hover over “Check Application Status” and click “Check Application Status & Print.” Source: Korea Visa Portal You will be directed to a form page. For “Type of applications,” choose “Confirmation of Visa Issuance.” For “Select,” choose “Receipt No.” and enter the number we provided. Next, enter your passport number, your name in English (as it appears on your passport), and your date of birth. For your name, please make sure it is your surname (last name) FIRST, then your given name (first name). After clicking “Search,” you will see your application status, which includes your ”Confirmation Number.” This confirmation number is your CVI No., which you will need to proceed. You can also print your visa issuance certificate by clicking the button in the bottom right, "Print Visa issue certificate. Source: Korea Visa Portal Step 2. E-2 Visa Application After obtaining your Confirmation of Visa Issuance Number (CVI No.) or Confirmation Number, your next step is to submit your E-2-1 visa application through the Korean embassy or consulate or KVAC (for the U.K). Please review the requirements and procedures specific to your relevant embassy or consulate within your area of jurisdiction. We strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information. However, we strongly recommend directly contacting the embassy or consulate for the most current guidance, assistance, and any updates or changes. US Embassy & Consulates Guide Consulates/Embassy Areas of Jurisdiction Anchorage Alaska Atlanta Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands Boston Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Maine, and Vermont Chicago Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin Dallas DFW Area: Wise, Denton, Collin, Hunt, Parker, Tarrant, Dallas, Rockwall, Johnson, Ellis, Kaufman, and Delta counties Honolulu Hawaii, American Samoa Houston Texas (excluding Dallas, Fort Worth), Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Mississippi Los Angeles Southern California, Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico New York New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut Philadelphia Pennsylvania and Delaware San Francisco Northern California, Colorado, Utah, Wyoming Seattle Washington, Oregon, Montana, Idaho Washington D.C. Washington D.C., Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland UK KVAC Guide Canada Embassy & Consulates Guide Consulates/Embassy Areas of Jurisdiction Montreal Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI, and Newfoundland Ottawa Ottawa and Gatineau Toronto Ontario (Except Ottawa) and Manitoba) Vancouver British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories South Africa Embassy Guide Australia Embassy & Consulates Guide Consulates/Embassy Areas of Jurisdiction Brisbane Queensland Canberra Australian Capital Territory, South Australia, Western Australia, and Tasmania Melbourne Victoria Sydney New South Wales, Northern Territory Ireland Embassy Guide New Zealand Embassy & Consulate Guide Consulate/Embassy Areas of Jurisdiction Auckland Auckland, Northland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, or Gisborne Wellington Wellington, Taranaki, Hawke's Bay, Manawatū-Whanganui, and the entire South Island in New Zealand Cook Islands, Samoa, Tonga, Niue 3. Special Considerations Marriage Certificate A marriage certificate is required for an F-3 visa, which is provided to the spouse or underage children/dependents of the E-2 visa holder. You will need to get your marriage certificate notarized by the country of issuance and have it submitted during the VIN application, or submitted to the designated consulate for a separate F-3 visa application. Name Change Document When you change your name legally after graduation, you will need to notarize the related document from the country of issuance. You will not need it for the VIN application, but you will need it for the Visa application at the Korean consulate of your jurisdiction. For more information, please consult the Korean consulate of your jurisdiction. Naturalization Paper If you were born in a third-party country but naturalized to the seven countries that is eligible for an E-2 Visa (Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, U.K., U.S.), you won’t be required to prepare a naturalization paper.

How to Prepare Your VIN Documents (Visa Issuance Number)

by Embark Recruiting

Visa and Immigration Guide (1/14)

How to Prepare Your VIN Documents (Visa Issuance Number)

Applying for an E-2 visa to teach in Korea requires a set of specific documents. The first step in the E-2 visa process is your school submitting your visa application to the Korean Immigration Office to issue a Visa Issuance Number (VIN), which happens before you visit a Korean consulate or embassy in your home country. This guide focuses on the key documents you, as the applicant, need to complete or provide. This guide explains how to complete the VIN Application Form and E-2 Visa Health Statement, as well as how to prepare your Passport Photocopy and Passport Photos. Following these steps carefully will help ensure your E-2 visa application proceeds smoothly and on schedule. 1. E-2 Visa Applicant's VIN Application Form An E-2 VIN Application form is a form completed by the applicant to give their required information to be approved for the visa. This form must be submitted to the Korean Immigration Office when applying for the E-2-1 Visa (Foreign Language Instructor). The completed form should be sent to the school (either directly by the applicant or through a recruiter), so that the school can register the applicant for a Visa Issuance Number (VIN). Obtaining the VIN is the first step in starting the E-2 visa application process. Once the teacher arrives in Korea, all teachers are required to complete a mandatory medical examination within three months of arrival. However, this is usually done within the first or second week, as a valid medical report is needed for the school to register the teacher with the local Education Office within 15 days of their start date, in compliance with immigration regulations. I. How to Find the E-2 VIN Application Form 1. Go to the Hi Korea site. 2. Click the tab "News & Announcements" and click "Application form." Related article: How to Navigate the Hi Korea Site Source: Hi Korea 3. Scroll down to the "Visas" section and locate the "application form for a certificate of visa issuance approval". The document is provided in Word, PDF, and HWP. Source: Hi Korea II. How to Complete the E-2 VIN Application Form You must complete the form that can be filled out from your side. As stated in the form, leaving blanks or providing false information may result in visa denial, cancellation, or deportation. Section 1. Personal Information Full name (Family/Last Name, Given/First Name) Chinese Characters: N/A Sex Date of Birth Nationality Country of Birth National Identity No. Has the applicant ever used any other names to enter/depart Korea? Is the applicant a citizen of more than one country? Section 2. Passport Information Passport Type Passport No. Country of Passport Place of Issue Date of Issue Date of Expiry Does the applicant have any other valid passport? Yes (a. Passport Type, b. Passport No., c. Country of Passport, d. Date of Expiry) Source: Hi Korea Section 3. Contact Information Home Country Address of the Applicant Current Residential Address Cell phone No. Telephone No. E-mail Emergency Contact Information (a. Full Name in English b. Country of Residence, c. Telephone No. d. Relationship to the applicant) Section 4. Marital Status and Family Details Current Marital Status (Married, Divorced, Single) Personal Information of the applicant’s Spouse (Please fill out only when selecting “Married” at the Current Marital Status section. a. Family Name, b. Given Names, c. Date of Birth, d. Nationality, e. Residential Address, f. Contact No.) Does the applicant have children? Section 5. Education What is the highest degree or level of education the applicant has completed? (Master’s/Doctoral Degree, Bachelor’s Degree, High School Diploma, Other) Name of School Location of School (Please fill out in city/province/country order) Section 6. Employment Current personal circumstances (Entrepreneur, Self-Employed, Employed, Civil Servant, Student, Retired, Unemployed, Other) Employment Details (a. Name of Company/Institute/School, b.Position/Course, c. Address of Company/Institute/School, d. Telephone No.) Source: Hi Korea Section 7. Contact Information Purpose of Visit to Korea (Select “Work” section among the options) Intended Period of Stay (LEAVE BLANK) Intended Date of Entry (LEAVE BLANK) Address in Korea (LEAVE BLANK) Contact No. in Korea (LEAVE BLANK) Has the applicant travelled to Korea in the last 5 years? Has the applicant travelled outside his/her country of residence, excluding Korea, in the last 5 years? Does the applicant have any family member(s) staying in Korea? Is the applicant travelling to Korea with any family member(s)? Source: Hi Korea Section 8. Assistance with This Form (LEAVE BLANK) School will fill out this section Section 9. Details of Invitation (LEAVE BLANK) School will fill out this section Source: Hi Korea 2. E-2 Visa Applicant's Health Statement You must complete the form truthfully, as you will undergo a medical examination upon arrival in Korea to confirm you are fit to work. As stated in the form, leaving blanks or providing false information may result in visa denial, cancellation, or deportation. Personal Information Full name Date of Birth Nationality Gender Passport No. Questionnaire Have you ever had any infectious disease that threatens public health? [Infectious Disease name: Cholera, Viral hepatitis A, Tuberculosis, AIDS, etc.) Have you taken any illegal substances (narcotic/drug) or have you ever been addicted to alcohol in the last 5 years? [Narcotic name: cannabinoids, cocaine, opiates, methoxyphenamine, etc.) Have you ever received treatment for mental/neurotic/or emotional disorders? [Disorder name: depressive disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, Post-traumatic stress disorder, etc.) Have you had any serious diseases or injuries in the last 5 years? (E.g., name & recent situation = reconstructive surgery in 20XX on left leg following a car accident, etc.) Source: Hi Korea 3. E-2 Visa Passport Photocopy You'll need a photocopy of your passport throughout your E-2-1 visa ("Foreign Language Instructor) process in Korea. Your passport copy is required for applying for immigration documents in Korea. Authorities have the discretion not to accept your application if they don’t approve your passport copy. To ensure you're copy of your passport isn't rejected, make sure to follow the following guidelines. Note: If possible, we always advise scanning your passport rather than taking a picture of your passport. However, if you don't have access to a scanner, a photo will suffice. 1. Download a PDF scanner app that can scan documents in color while removing the background and any shadows. To ensure a clean copy, place a sheet of white paper beneath the passport before taking a picture. Consider taking a picture in a softly lit room to avoid any harsh shadows when taking the picture. 2. Take a photo in "Portrait mode" clearly showing the top page with the holder's signature (must have a written signature) and the bottom information page, including the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ). Make sure to take the photo straight on, so the scan isn't tilted or lopsided Note: No background, fingers, or shadows should be visible. E-2 Visa Passport Photos Passport Photos are photos taken that match the standard passport size of 3.5 x 4.5cm (35mm x 45mm). A professional-looking photograph that can be physically applied to an application during your E-2-1 visa ("Foreign Language Instructor") visa. These photos are required for your visa application and must have been taken within the last six months. Please have at least 8 physical copies of your passport-sized photo, as well as a digital copy to use for your application and any related documents. Note: If possible, we advise taking a photo from a professional studio. However, taking a photo on your own will suffice. After you take the photo, please print the photo on photo-grade paper, not regular paper. How to Take a Passport-sized Photo 1. Choose a location with a white wall or white sheet. You can also choose to digitally remove the background after you take a photo to ensure you have a clean, white background. 2. When taking a picture, you must be directly facing the camera with a neutral expression with your eyes and ears fully visible. There shouldn't be any shadows or clothing blocking your face. Note: For those with glasses, we recommend taking off your glasses to prevent any glares For those with long hair, we recommend tying your hair or pinning your hair back behind your ears Any hats or head coverings are prohibited, except for religious or medical purposes 3. You'll have to ensure your photo meets the legal size requirements. The photo should be 3.5cm in width (35mm) and 4.5cm in height (45mm) The length of your face (crown of the head to chin line) should be between 2.5cm to 3.5cm (25mm - 35mm) Your nose should be at the center of the photo Your eye level should be between 2.2cm to 3.2cm (22mm - 32mm)

E-2 Visa Requirements to Teach English | Korea Visa Guide

by Embark Recruiting

Visa and Immigration Guide (1/14)

E-2 Visa Requirements to Teach English | Korea Visa Guide

What is an E-2-1 Visa? The E-2-1 visa, also called the general “Foreign Language Instructor” visa, is the most common visa for native English speakers teaching conversational English in Korea. This visa lets you work at private language academies, language research institutes, and other equivalent educational organizations. While international schools may hire on E-2 visas, positions are limited to teaching English. If you plan to teach other subjects, you will need an F-series resident visa. E-2-1 (Foreign Language Instructor) Period of Stay: Up to 2 years (generally 13 months/1-year contract, or the duration indicated on your Visa Issuance Certificate). Validation of Visa: 3 months following the visa issuance date (must arrive in Korea within 90 days) Entry Type: Single entry Purpose: Limited to teaching conversational English (NOT literature, linguistics, or translation). Note: Other E-2 visa types, such as E-2-2 (public school teaching assistants through EPIK) and E-2-91 (instructors hired under the FTA), are not covered here. E-2-1 Eligibility Requirements: Be a citizen of a country where English is the primary language. (U.S.A., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, U.K. and Northern Ireland, Ireland, and South Africa) Hold at least a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in one of the 7 native English-speaking countries. Be a native speaker or have completed junior high school (7th grade) and lived for at least 10 years in a native English-speaking country Special Exceptions: Teachers who earned their Bachelor’s degree in Korea, but completed high school or vocational school in a native English-speaking country, may also qualify. Spouses on F3 visas, who are from one of the countries listed above, can also apply, but additionally may need to apply for a work grant to be added onto their visa. See Our Full E-2-1 Visa Guide by Country United States United Kingdom and Northern Ireland Canada South Africa Ireland Australia New Zealand

by Embark Recruiting

About Embark (1/4)

About Us

Our Story From humble beginnings in 2003, a small group of teachers set out to improve job transparency and support for English teachers in Korea. What began with sharing job opportunities in Itaewon eventually evolved into a global ESL job platform, TheWorknPlay. Teachers are at the heart of everything we do. We take the time to understand each teacher’s individual needs and partner only with schools that uphold the highest legal and ethical standards, so every teacher can feel confident, supported, and valued. Our team of former teachers brings firsthand experience to every placement. We know the challenges and rewards of teaching abroad, and we’re dedicated to providing the most transparent, teacher-focused service in ESL recruitment. Our Vision To lead the transformation of the Korean native teaching industry as the most innovative and teacher-focused company. We strive to build a culture of transparency, trust, and empowerment where teachers and schools communicate, grow, and thrive together. Our Mission To elevate the standards of the Korean native teacher industry by ensuring teachers are supported, informed, and empowered. We close the information gap by providing teachers with resources about the schools and Korea to help them thrive both inside and outside the classroom. Our Core Values Embark Recruiting’s success is built on the established trust of teachers and schools, combined with the unwavering dedication and efforts of our team. We remain firmly committed to our core values and consistently deliver high-quality recruitment services. Integrity Trust is at the heart of everything we do. We operate with transparency, integrity, and genuine care. You will never be pressured into a decision, and we will always provide the support to make the best decision. Teacher Focus Experience where it counts. Our recruiting team is made up of former native English teachers in Korea. Together, we understand the real challenges and rewards of teaching abroad, and put our teachers at the heart of everything we do, using our insights from teaching to support you every step of the way. Collaboration Our recruiting model is built on collaboration, so our recruiters focus on matching each teacher with the right role and school, rather than earning commissions. Innovation We strive to grow and improve the industry by challenging conventional norms. When partnering with schools, we gather comprehensive information from administrators and collaborate with current teachers to provide our teachers with accurate, reliable insights. We're committed to raising the status and recognition of teachers in Korea. Our Difference We have heard from countless teachers that what sets Embark apart is our approach. We take the time to truly understand what each teacher is looking for, ensure they understand the roles they are considering, and maintain open communication at every stage. If a role has already been filled, we don't leave teachers in the dark. We take a moment to explain the situation and keep them updated. Your Career, Our Mission At Embark, your success is our success. We are here to help you find the right job that fits your skills, personality, and we will not stop until you are hired. Save Time and Reduce Stress Job hunting takes considerable time and effort. We pre-screen schools and jobs to provide positions worth your time. Your Privacy is Our Priority Your privacy matters. If you are currently employed and prefer not to disclose your place of work, we have got you covered. We will keep everything confidential and, if needed, delay sharing references until you are ready. Guidance You Can Count On Need help with your resume or interview? We are here with professional tips and guidance to help you shine and make a lasting impression. Supporting Your Career Today and Tomorrow Finding the right position can take time. We will keep your information on file and continue working to connect you with the best teaching opportunities. Our Specialization We are partnered with over 1,000 schools and institutions across Korea, from private language academies to international schools. We specialize in recruiting native English teachers, as well as professionals for administrative and leadership roles in the education sector across Korea. We Provide Positions for: 1. Native English Teachers & Other Native Language Teachers English as a Second Language (ESL), Conversational Language Teaching (English, Chinese, Spanish, etc.) Homeroom and Subject Teaching Speech and Debate, Academy Reading and Writing Teaching Test Preparation Teaching (TOEFL, TOEIC, etc.) Overseas College Entrance Exam Teaching (SAT, IB, etc.) Overseas College Admission Consulting 2. Non-Teaching, Academic and Leadership Roles R&D Associates (curriculum research, design, and development) Academic and Curriculum Directors Head Teachers, Administrators, and Department Heads Vice Principals and Deputy Directors Principals and Directors Company Information Company: TheWorknPlay LLC | (주) 워크앤플레이 CEO: Derek O'Grady Business Registration Number (BRN): 227-86-02835 Embark Recruiting serves as the Korean recruitment branch of TheWorknPlay, a globally recognized company registered in both the United States and South Korea. We are a legally authorized and operating recruiting company in Korea.

Embark's Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

by Embark Recruiting

About Embark (1/4)

Embark's Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Statement Embark Recruiting is committed to challenging all forms of discrimination and promoting fairness in every aspect of our work. Our mission is to build a global community of teachers and provide a transparent, accessible platform that empowers them to make informed choices about where they teach and grow. At Embark, we believe that Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are essential to building trust, protecting students, and ensuring that all teachers have access to fair and respectful teaching opportunities in Korea. We recognize that bias remains a challenge in the international teaching industry, including Korea. We are deeply concerned by these practices and are committed to being part of the change toward greater fairness and inclusion in education recruitment. Our goal is to create a platform where every teacher feels valued, supported, and judged only by their professional skills and passion for teaching. We strive to ensure transparency between schools and teachers and to foster a community that encourages open dialogue, respect, and equal opportunity. Our Actions Toward Change Transparency: We communicate openly about hiring practices so teachers can make informed decisions about where they apply and work. Collaboration: We engage with schools to encourage inclusive hiring approaches and share insights on the benefits of diversity in education. Advocacy: We use our platform to highlight stories of diverse teachers and to promote awareness of bias in international recruitment. Empowerment: We’re developing resources to support teachers in navigating discrimination, understanding their rights, and finding schools that align with their values. We know that change takes time, but by listening, learning, and taking consistent action, Embark aims to help shape a more equitable and inclusive future for all teachers in Korea. Related Article: Embark’s Assurances and Guidlelines for Teachers

Build a Professional Resume to Teach in Korea

by Embark Recruiting

Embark Services (1/7)

Build a Professional Resume to Teach in Korea

If you want to teach in Korea, your resume needs to be professional, clear, and tailored to what Korean schools expect. With schools often spending only seconds reviewing applications, every word counts. That’s where Embark Recruiting comes in. We help your resume highlight your strengths, showcase your experience, and maximize your chances of landing your ideal teaching position. To get started, send us your resume so we can tailor it to match the requirements of Korean schools and help you stand out from the competition. Send Us Your Resume How We Help Our process ensures your experience, skills, and teaching style are presented in the most compelling way possible. During our call, we ask questions to understand your background and teaching philosophy to find the right jobs based on your qualifications. Sample Questions: Can you tell us about your previous teaching experience(s) and the type of students you worked with? How do you tailor your lessons to meet the needs of students at different proficiency levels? How has your teaching philosophy and classroom management evolved throughout your teaching career? How have you adapted to environments with a strong academic focus and fast-paced schedules? Here’s a breakdown of what Korean schools prioritize in a resume, and how we make sure you meet those expectations. 1. Resume Title Your resume title, or headline, is the first thing schools will notice. It should be short, clear, and impactful (ideally under 15 words). The title should accurately reflect your role and previous experience. We tailor your title to match the language and qualities Korean schools are looking for, helping position you as the ideal candidate. Examples: Experienced Teacher: ESL Kindergarten Teacher | 5+ Years Teaching in Korea | Early Learners Specialist U.K. Certified English Teacher | 3+ Years International Teaching Experience New Teacher: Certified TEFL Educator Skilled in Lesson Planning & Classroom Management Dedicated English Major Skilled in Cross-Cultural Communication and Leadership 2. Personal Information + Photo In Korea, including personal details in your resume is standard practice. For overseas teachers in particular, providing your visa status and current location helps schools filter candidates more efficiently. We ensure all required personal information is included, so schools can quickly see your eligibility and profile. Full name, birth year, gender, nationality, marital status, travelling with pets, partner, etc. (if relevant) Recent photo (smiling preferred, clear with a neutral background; doesn’t need to be professional) Visa Type/Status Current Location (city/province) Contact Details: phone number with country code, professional email address 3. Professional Summary Your professional summary is your elevator pitch. It should be concise, ideally 3–4 sentences, highlighting your work ethic, skills, and teaching experience. We craft your professional summary after our call, making sure it resonates with Korean schools. Examples: Experienced Teacher: Dedicated ESL teacher with five years of teaching experience in Korea, specializing in phonics, grammar, reading, and TOEFL Junior exam preparation. Skilled in designing engaging, play-based lessons and leading discussions. Excels in fast-paced environments and adapts lessons for students across all levels. New Teacher: Compassionate, aspiring ESL teacher eager to develop experience with early learners. Skilled at building positive relationships with diverse students, drawing on tutoring and volunteer experience. Committed to fostering student-centered, engaging learning environments. 4. Education Your education section should list your most recent degree first and include the degree, major, institution, country, and graduation year. We ensure relevant honors, leadership roles, and extracurriculars are highlighted to showcase your qualifications beyond the degree itself. Example: University of California, Los Angeles | Los Angeles, California Bachelor's Degree | English Literature | Sept. 20XX - 20XX GPA: 3.85/4.0 Honors: Dean’s List, Graduated cum laude. Extracurriculars: President of International Student Association, Volunteer Tutor at English Peer Tutoring Program. 5. Teaching Licenses & Certifications Include all current and valid teaching certifications, such as TEFL, TESOL, CELTA, or state teaching licenses. Only list credentials that are active and relevant to the positions you are applying for. We make sure your certifications are strategically highlighted in your resume title and professional summary, so schools immediately recognize your qualifications and expertise. 6. Teaching & Work Experience Your work experience should summarize your responsibilities, skills, and measurable achievements, including full-time, part-time, internships, and volunteer roles. We guide you in structuring your experience to showcase your accomplishments and relevant skills, so every bullet point communicates value to Korean schools. We also check with your professional references to help strengthen your application. Example: Poly Gangnam | Seoul, South Korea | Sept. 2022–2023 Taught 20+ elementary students daily, adapting lessons to different levels. Improved TOEFL Junior scores by 15% in one semester. Coordinated school events with parents and staff. Skills: Communication, Classroom Management, Flexibility 7. Visa Status Schools need to know your visa eligibility upfront. We make your visa information clear and straightforward, so schools can immediately confirm your eligibility. Send us your resume today, and we'll make sure it gets noticed. Schedule a call with us, and take the first step toward your dream teaching position in Korea. Send Us Your Resume

by Embark Recruiting

Embark Services (1/7)

Find the Right Teaching Job in Korea

If you’ve ever searched for teaching jobs in Korea, you know how difficult it can be. Believe us, we’ve been there as teachers ourselves! With thousands of listings scattered across job boards, it’s tough to know which schools are reputable and worth your time. That’s where Embark comes in. We specialize in helping teachers find the right schools. By understanding your preferences, background, and goals, we find positions that align perfectly with what you want. In this guide, we’ll explain how our matching process works and share insider tips to help you land a job that truly fits you. 1. Filter Schools Based on Your Top Priorities While many recruiters rush to send your resume anywhere, we take a personalized approach. We start with filtering based on the non-negotiables or top priorities when determining a position and a school. 5 Common Non-Negotiables: 1. Location Your preferred city or region is a major factor, and we do our best to match schools within your desired area—right down to the district. Note: Everyone dreams of teaching in Seoul, and it’s easy to see why! But keep in mind that competitive districts like Gangnam often prefer teachers with prior experience. Newer teachers can find fantastic opportunities in the Greater Seoul Metropolitan Area (Seoul, Gyeonggi, and Incheon), where you’ll still enjoy easy commutes and diverse amenities. 2. Student Age Group We match you to the age range that best fits your teaching style and identify your strengths. Note: English proficiency levels vary widely even within the same age group. Some programs are more academically focused, while others focus on play-based and holistic learning. 3. Working Hours Your work schedule can make or break your work experience in Korea. We’ll help you find one that fits your lifestyle. Note: If you’re an early riser, morning programs are ideal. But if you prefer slow mornings, afternoon shifts might be a better fit. Morning (E.g., 9 AM – 6 PM): Common for pre-school, kindergarten, and younger learners. Afternoon (E.g., 1 PM – 9 PM): Common for elementary, middle, and older learners. 4. Salary We advocate for fair, transparent compensation on your behalf and help negotiate your salary after your school interview. Note: Entry-level salaries typically start around 2.4 million KRW per month, but many schools offer higher pay depending on experience and qualifications. 5. Start Date We align your timeline so everything runs smoothly from job offer to arrival. Note: We recommend scheduling your arrival or start date to align with the beginning of Korea's school semesters, when more positions are typically available. Language Academies: Semesters start in March (Spring) and September (Fall). International Schools: Common for the school year to start in August. 2. Rank Schools Based on Your Secondary Priorities Now that we’ve narrowed down your options, we rank schools and positions according to your secondary preferences or nice-to-haves. 5 Common Nice-to-Haves: 1. Housing or Housing Allowance We do our best to share housing photos and details before you sign any contract, so you know exactly what you’re agreeing to. Note: Most academies provide basic furnished one-room studio apartments or housing allowance, while international schools typically offer only housing allowance. 2. Curriculum Style Whether you prefer academic, holistic, play-based, or international curricula (i.e., American), we match you with schools that reflect your teaching philosophy. Note: If you prefer more autonomy or flexibility in teaching, independent academies tend to offer more freedom in lesson planning, whereas franchise academies usually follow a set curriculum. 3. Campus Facilities From classrooms to libraries and meeting rooms, we share facility photos to determine your day-to-day experience working at the school. 4. Benefits We verify whether schools provide Korea’s 4 major insurances (National Pension, Health, Employment, and Industrial Accident) and ensure you understand severance pay, airfare, and vacation policies before signing. 5. Professional Growth/Continuing Professional Development (CPD) We disclose if schools offer ongoing development opportunities through training and showcase teachers who’ve advanced into leadership roles. 3. Present a Tailored Shortlist of Schools After ranking schools that best fit your must-haves and nice-to-haves, we’ll present you with a curated shortlist of options to choose from. Unlike many recruiters who only share partial information (or even hide school names), we embrace transparency. You’ll always know exactly which school you’re considering, who runs it, what it values, and what your day-to-day life in the classroom will really be like. You’ll receive detailed school profiles and job postings, including: • Curriculum overview and teaching approach • Leadership and current team • Photos/videos of campus facilities • Clear teaching and non-teaching responsibilities • Real teacher testimonials from current and former teachers Ready to find the perfect teaching job in Korea? Send us your resume today, and we'll make sure it gets noticed. Schedule a call with us, and take the first step toward your dream teaching position in Korea. Send Us Your Resume

by Embark Recruiting

Teaching in Korea (1/4)

Prepare for Teacher Interviews in Korea

Interview Techniques Online interviews can be incredibly hard, especially when the school has been interviewing people for weeks and you are both in different time zones. We have prepared a document to make sure you are fully prepared for your interviews and have included advice on how you can structure your answers. The schools are looking at your personality and social skills, so please stay engaged and bright throughout the interview. Please go over the following information before you interview with the schools. BEFORE THE INTERVIEW Prep well, and if you're conducting an online interview, check in advance if you have downloaded the correct software, have the correct link, and have no issues logging in. Furthermore, research the school, their curriculum (whether they follow the Korean, American, or British education system, for example), and their location. Please arrive 5 minutes before the agreed-upon start time and ensure you are located in a quiet area with a stable Wi-Fi connection. Please wear a shirt or clean blouse and if you have longer hair, please tie it so it is not covering your face. DURING THE INTERVIEW During your interview, your goal is to showcase your skills and personality. The latter is especially important for new teachers, and schools will look closely at your potential, enthusiasm, and how you’ll fit into their community. Show that you’re fully engaged throughout the conversation. Stay focused and present, and when a question is asked, take a brief pause before answering to gather your thoughts and show composure. For online interviews, make sure that you look into the camera and actively show your engagement through nodding and exclamations of agreement or acknowledgment throughout the interview. When answering questions, try to stick to the PER method (point, evidence, result). An equivalent is the STAR method (situation, task, action, and result). As many of the interviewers have English as their second or third language, keeping your answers clear and concise is key. 1. Skills: have at least three skills and an experience for each relevant to the position. Point- What skill did you develop, and why? What skill(s) do you possess to be a successful teacher? Evidence- Provide a situation in which you learned how to use this skill. Result- How did this positively impact your students/colleagues, your working style, and your bosses? Example: P: I have worked on my communication skills, especially with children of varying ages. E: When I first started teaching, I did not change how I spoke to kindergarten and elementary students compared with middle school students. What I learned was that kindergarten students have to be spoken to in short sentences and given one task at a time. On the other hand, middle school students can take in lots of information at one time and prefer to be given all the information first before they start working on questions. R: The result of this was that my relationships with the students across different ages improved significantly, and I was able to adapt my teaching style to fit their needs better. For this reason, I believe I have the flexibility to adapt to the different student ages at your school. Example: P: I think that my skills in communication and collaboration would make me a successful teacher at your school. E: During university, when completing projects with my peers, I would actively listen to what others had to say and consider their opinions against the overall group interests. R: Through this, I cultivated meaningful communication with my peers while honing my ability to listen with intention, which will be invaluable when tailoring my approach to meet the diverse needs of my students. 2. Personality: What quality makes you stand out from the rest? Do you have an unusual experience that has positively affected how you see your work? Point - What is one trait about you that makes you an exceptional teacher? Evidence - Provide a situation in which you demonstrated this personality trait. Result - How can it apply to the current position you're applying for? Example: P: I am empathetic and love being an active member of a team or community. E: When I completed my university degree, I volunteered regularly at a local foodbank. The reason why I did this was because I wanted to give back to my local community, but also better understand the people around me. R: This has made me more grateful for my own living situation, but also more understanding about the needs and situations of others. I hope to bring a similar commitment and dedication when I join your school community. IMPORTANT: Sensitive Topics in Interviews When interviewing a teacher, schools like to focus on education, the classroom, a teacher's teaching philosophies, and experiences. Unless they specifically bring up the following topics themselves, schools tend not to prefer discussing the following subjects directly, as they can be discussed later once you two figure out if you are a good match together. Also, as your recruiter, we can help discuss these sensitive topics in a nuanced way that can help prevent any cultural miscommunications: Salary negotiations If the school is on the blacklist When answering why you want to work at their school, while the following things may be true influences on you, it would probably be best not to list the following reasons as your main reason for choosing their school: "My friends live in Seoul' 'I want more money' 'I want more holiday' 'I really don't like the management at my current place' 'I don't know, I like K-pop' Directors care a lot about their schools and show preference to teachers who also care about their school. With this being said, we don't want you to be worried about asking all the questions. The following things are common questions that teachers ask and should have no issue with answering: 'How far is the school from the housing?' 'Are there any classroom observations, such as open class, and how can I prep for them in advance?' 'How does the school train and support the teacher when they are settling in?' 'How does your flight reimbursement policy work?' 'What qualities or attributes do I need to be a successful teacher at your school?' 'How frequent are student evaluations and what form do they take? (e.g., written evaluations, meetings with parents) For the directors, where teaching and their academies are their pride and joy, we want to help you be successful in navigating the subtle nuances of the interview so that you can receive an offer. Any questions that are not answered in the interview can also be asked through our recruiters at a later date if both you and the school want to move forward together. AFTER THE INTERVIEW Reflect on what went well and provide feedback on the school to your recruiter. What positives and negatives can you take away from the interview/school? How well did you do based on your preparation for the interview? If you have any further questions or need clarification about the school or position, please ask your recruiter. Send Us Your Resume