How Much Do English Teachers Make in Korea?

You’ve likely already fallen in love with South Korea’s culture: the Korean BBQ, the K-Pop craze, the learner-friendly language, and the proximity to some fan-favorite Asia travel destinations. On top of having a world-class international travel experience, English teachers in South Korea can also put some money in the bank for further travel, student loans, or continuing education (just to name a few examples).

Note: Before we go any further, just know that the currency in South Korea is called the "Won". 

English Teacher in Korea Salary

How Much Does an English Teacher Earn in South Korea?

First-time English teachers in South Korea working in public schools through programs like EPIK typically earn monthly salaries between 1.5 to 3 million won ($1,100 - $2,200 USD). English teachers at private schools (Hagwons) earn from 1.9 to 2.4 million won ($1,400 - $1,750 USD) monthly. Public & private schools typically provide free housing and flight reimbursements.

How Much Can You Save Teaching English in Korea?

Most English teachers in Korea will be able to save up to 50 % of their salary after expenses, which can range from the equivalent of $500 - $1,000+ per month.

Exactly how much money you can make will depend on a few factors, like your background experience, the type of job/employer you have, and where you are geographically located in the country.

What are the Benefits of Teaching English in South Korea?

Although the salary of an English teacher in South Korea may not seem high, take into consideration that most Korean employers pay for flights as well as housing for teachers. With no rent to pay and a very low cost of living, you’ll find it quite easy to save a decent sum of your paycheck on a monthly basis.

Additionally, when it comes to teaching English in South Korea and salary, it's important to differentiate whether you will teach for a public school or a private school.

Read more: Korea is one of the top 5 countries to make the most money teaching English

EPIK Salary Levels & EPIK Benefits

Salaries for English teachers in Korea that work at public schools, through the EPIK and GEPIK programs, is determined by an established scale. This scale is adjusted according to demand on a yearly basis. Public school teachers can expect a salary of anywhere from 1.5 to 3 million won, which is about $1,100 - $2,200 USD. Housing is typically provided and flights reimbursed, bringing start-up costs down substantially.

Hagwon Salary & Benefits

The salary of an English teacher in South Korea that works at private language centers, called Hagwons, ranges anywhere from 1.9 to 2.4 million won, or about $1,400 to $1,750 USD, per month. Hagwons aren’t as regulated as public schools, so you’ll see a lot of variation in pay. Teachers with a background in education or teaching experience may find salaries on the higher side of the scale. However, it’s possible to find schools with higher salaries for those just starting out. Housing is typically provided and flights paid for or reimbursed upon arrival.

University-Level Teaching Job Salary & Benefits

University positions in South Korea are also highly sought after and coveted. While they are not as common as the previously mentioned employers, qualified candidates that are patient can find themselves with work and lifestyle to be envious of.

With fewer working hours, longer vacations, and more independence, University jobs in South Korea are known to offer monthly salaries in the range of 2.3 million won, capping out at 5 million won (about  $1,680 - $3,650 USD). Flights and accommodations are also typically provided.

Additional Benefits & Perks for Teaching English in Korea

At the end of the day, English teachers in South Korea can find themselves living a very comfortable lifestyle. If student loan debt, credit card debt, or any other financial obligations are holding you back in pursuing future endeavors, some time spent having the travel experience of a lifetime while saving a decent amount of your salary might be just the thing you need!

• South Korea is a very prosperous nation that highly values education so schools, parents and the government are all willing to offer high salaries and good benefits to recruit qualified native English-speaking teachers.
• Rent is provided, so English teachers in Korea do not need to worry about an item that for most people will consume 30% or more of their monthly budget.
• Cost of living – food, utilities, public transportation, etc. – is lower than in most large American and Western European cities.
• English Teachers who complete a 12-month contract will typically receive a severance bonus equivalent to one month’s pay.
• Exchange rates – Teachers are paid in Korean won and exchange rates are such that when monthly savings are converted to dollars, the amount will usually range from $800 - $1,200 a month. International exchange rates are constantly changing and are set by international currency markets. To view the latest rates, we recommend using an online currency converter.

English Teacher Salary in South Korea: Summary

Watch ITA Graduate Claire Hughes Talk about her Salary as an English Teacher in Korea

Read further:

• Requirements for teaching English in Korea
• How Much Money Can I Make Teaching English Online?