OkayKorea.com
Q: What is OkayKorea.com?  How are you different from other agencies?
A: We are an Internet-based company, fully licensed by the government.  We provide the utmost services to the public.  All of us at OkayKorea.com are experienced native-speakers from the United States, currently residing in Korea.  We provide a variety of services including: recruiting teachers, translation/editing services, phone school, and general information about Korea.  Also, OkayKorea.com will link you to other websites and URLs.

Q: How reliable is the recruiting service?
A: We provide a recruiting service, which finds English-teaching positions and potential employers for interested applicants.  This means that we work on behalf of the teachers not the employers.

Q: Are there any service or recruiting fees?
A: There are absolutely "NO" fees involved in any of our services in giving valuable information to you and there is NO fees for recruiting services to our teachers.
Note:   There are charges for posting advertisements.

Q: How can I apply to OkayKorea.com?
A: You may apply directly through our On-Line Application. Or you may contact us through the following methods:
Email: english@okaykorea.com
Telephone Number: 82-2-536-2742 (International Calls) / 02-536-2742 (In Korea)
FAX Number: 82-2-536-2778 (International Calls) / 02-536-2778 (In Korea)

Q: Can I choose the city that I want to work in?
A: You may choose an area to teach in, but it will delay the placement or limit your chances of being placed.  Seoul and other big cities are very popular among foreigners.

Q: When is the best time to apply for a teaching position?
A: Applying early through OkayKorea.com is the best; however, the month of February and August are the peak months of hiring for schools and institutes.
 

Teaching English
Q: When should I apply for a teaching position?
A: The sooner the better! Since the visa sponsorship takes time to process in Korea.  We suggest that applying teachers provide the employer with the appropriate paperwork as soon as possible. It will be a good idea to apply two months in advance through OkayKorea.com. Some schools hire teachers on short notice. (One month or less to hire a teacher)

Q: How long will it take before I am hired?  
A: In most cases, an applicant can be hired within 2 months from receipt of the application. The preparation period is a 3-4 weeks long before your departure. A preparation period is needed for diploma confirmation, telephone interview, visa processing and flight scheduling. Upon notification of hire and while your work visa is being processed, you should make arrangements to depart for Korea as soon as the visa is approved.
In some cases this time period can be much shorter depending how quickly your visa is approved.  Your date of availability is very important.

Q: Are classes always available?
A: School sessions start on a monthly basis and employers are always looking for qualified teachers.

Q: Is a university degree a requirement?
A: Yes, it is a requirement.  The only exception is if you happen to be a college graduate majoring in English; or a certified CELTA, TEFL, or TESOL graduate.

Q: Do I need experience?
A: No, you do not need experience. Beginners are always welcome, as long as you are qualified. Employers will provide training to help you adjust to the new environment.  Also, all classes use textbooks designated by the school, similar to Western schools.  Children's classes are usually based on activities out of a textbook. And adult classes are usually "free-talking, conversational classes."
You can also visit the ESL teaching links to help you with ideas. Being friendly will help you work with new people much easier.

Q: What if I am not from an English-speaking country?  Can a school still hire me?  
A: (For example, Belgium, China, India, Pakistan, etc)
Unfortunately, the Korean Government requires teachers to be native English-speakers from an English-speaking country.

Q: What kinds of teaching positions are available?
A: All of kinds of teaching positions are available.

-Click for Job Description-

Q: What am I suppose to do?
A: All hired teachers are supposed to teach conversational English.

-Click for Teaching English-
 

Salary & Tax
Q: What is the minimum salary I should look for?                 
A: Employers will pay their teachers various salaries. Colleges and universities pay higher than most private institutes. The starting monthly salary institutes offer is usually around 1.6 million won (About $1400 US)

Q: How often will I get paid?
A: You will be paid once a month. Your monthly salary will be deposited directly into your Korean bank account.

Q: When will I get paid?
A: You will either get paid at the first or last week or the month. (Depending on the school)

Q: I have an English Teaching Certificate (CELTA, TEFL, TESOL) and / or a Masters degree in English. "I believe, I am over qualified," Will I be offered a higher salary?
A: In some cases, you will be paid a higher salary. Sometimes, you may be offered a higher salary based on your teaching experience in Korea. Instructors of English in colleges or universities need an English Teaching Certificate (CELTA, TEFL, TESOL,) and a Masters degree. But the institutes have the same salary level with on a Bachelors degree or higher. (Depending, how desperate an institute is, the salaries will vary)
So everything depends on your qualifications and experience.  In some cases, working conditions are different for more experienced teachers.

Q: How will I be paid?
A: All salaries are paid in Korean won.  Depending on the employer, you will be paid bi-weekly or monthly.  Usually, paychecks will be deposited directly into your bank account.  If employers offer you cash payment, this usually means that you are getting paid under the table.   Sometimes, you may be paid in cashier's checks.  These are as good as cash and are accepted just about anywhere as long as you have proper identification.  These cashier's checks are usually in 100,000 won denomination.

Q: Can I exchange my money?
A: Sure, money can be exchanged at the bank or at big department stores or hotels.

-Click for Exchange Rate-

Q: Is there any taxation?
A: Yes, tax must be paid.  Tax is usually 3.3 - 7% of your gross income. However, it's true that foreigners can get a tax refund at the end of their contract.  Remember, taxes are paid by the employers every month

Q: Will I ever get a raise in salary?
A: Usually, a raise in salary or severance pay is uncommon. However, if you decide to extend your contract. you surely deserve a raise.
 

Contract
Q: How long is each contract?
A: The contracts are 12 months long.
 
Q: Are there shorter contracts six or nine month contracts available?
A: Yes, on rare occasions there are shorter contracts available. The contract and working conditions are pre-determined before being hired. Also, if you were to work on a shorter contract, the employer will not offer severance pay and only offer a one-way airplane ticket.

Q: Can I break a contract? How can I break a contract legally? And, what will happen to me?
A: Yes, you may annul (or break) the contract by giving a minimum of two months' advance notice in writing. In the case of the employer seeking annulment, reasonable and adequate grounds must be provided in order for the contract to be dissolved properly.  If you leave before the one-year contract, you are required to reimburse the airfare and you will not be paid any severance pay (bonus.)
In addition, if you annul (break) a contract improperly and without a work release paper, your work visa will be canceled and the employer may take legal actions against you. This may also lead to deportation and fines. In addition, it will be hard to find another job in Korea. (Don't forget to get the work release working prior to leaving the school)

Q:  What is severance payment? How much will I get as severance pay?
A: Severance pay is a year-end bonus given to all employees. Employees will be given an additional one/twelfth of annual salary for completing the contract period. (Required by the Korean government) The amount you get paid depends on the annual salary. (One-month salary) This will be paid at time of the completion of the full contract term. Employers are not required to give severance pay for even eleven months of completion.
 
Q: Do employers pay less than a month salary for severance pay?
A: Unfortunately, some employers do pay less than the required amount because of the additional working accommodations, even though, the Korean government requires severance pay to be paid to the employees. Free airfare and free housing is sometimes misunderstood as a basic requirement. (Employers are not required to provide free airfare and free housing.) Be careful of employers, who don't even pay severance pay. (Contact OkayKorea.com for assistance)

Q: Can I renew my contract for a second year? Is there a raise in salary?
A: If both you and employer agree, you can renew your contract.  This can be worked out with the institute directly.  Usually all employers will offer a raise in salary. The amount must be negotiated between the employer and the employee. If you enjoy working for your employer, stay with the school for another year.
If you decide to look for a new teaching position, OkayKorea.com can assist you in locating an appropriate position. Remember to contact us before your contract ends.
 

Diploma Confirmation
Q: What is a Diploma Confirmation? (Notarized diploma certificate)
A: Diploma Confirmation is a proper documentation and your first step in acquiring a work visa. (Substitution for an original diploma certificate.) It is a photocopy of your original diploma, which has been stamped and verified by the Korean Consulate. It is necessary to prove that you have in fact earned a 4-year degree.
The Korean Consulate has set down a Government policy, which states that all English teachers entering Korea must have a 4-year degree. The original diploma certificate must be sent to the Korean consulate as proof of graduation. It can be mailed or hand carried to the Korean consulate. A diploma confirmation is just as good as the original diploma certificate.
With a Diploma Confirmation in your application you will assure the employer that, if hired, you will be granted an educational working visa.

 -Click for Diploma Confirmation-

Q: Why do I need to send my original degree to the Korean Consulate?
A: The original diploma certificate must be sent to the Korean consulate as proof of graduation. It can be mailed or hand carried to the Korean consulate. This procedure is required because the Korean consulates have been noticing counterfeited diplomas. (All original diplomas must be sent to the Korean consulate & absolutely no photocopies)

Q: What if I have lost my original diploma or am afraid to mail it to the Korean consulate? What if it's permanently framed or too large to mail?
A: Most Consulates will also accept an official letter from your Alma Mater, stating that you have graduated.  This can be used in place of your original diploma.  Contact the Korean Consulate, which handles your jurisdiction to confirm they will accept an official letter of graduation.  This will prove you have graduated with a 4-year degree.

Q: What if I have just graduated and not yet received my diploma certificate?
A: As stated in the previous answer, most Consulates will also accept an official letter from your Alma Mater, stating that you have graduated.  This can be used in place of your original diploma.  Contact the Korean Consulate, which handles your jurisdiction to confirm they will accept an official letter of graduation.  This will prove you have graduated with a 4-year degree.

Q: Can I get a diploma confirmation without a 4-year degree with just an associate degree?  Will this allow me to get a proper teaching position?
A: Anyone can get a diploma confirmation, but not everyone is qualified to teach in Korea. A diploma confirmation is just a notarization for your diploma certificate. If you only have an associate degree, you may only teach English, if you are an English major or a certified graduate of the CELTA, TEFL, or TESOL courses.

Q: What happens after the diploma confirmation?
A: After you have mailed us the diploma confirmation with the other required documents, the sponsorship is process in Korea. It will take around 1-2 weeks to complete the process. Afterwards, a visa letter of acceptance will be mailed to the teacher abroad. You must then send your passport with the letter to the Korean consulate. They will stamp your passport with a work visa, then you are officially ready to fly to Korea.
 

Work Visa
Q: What is a work visa?
A: A work visa (E-2 visa) allows you to teach English in Korea for a certain period of time.  For "Kyopos," (ethnic Koreans) an F-1 or F-4 visa is available.

Q: Does everyone need a work visa?
A: Yes, it is necessary for the employers to provide visa sponsorship for their employees. The Korean government requires it for the issuance of an educational working visa.  This will make the teacher a legal resident in Korea during the time of employment.  Teaching illegally will lead to heavy fines and deportation.

Q: What is an E-2 Visa?
A: An E-2 visas are available to teachers who meet the qualifications specified by the Ministry of Justice to teach at foreign language institutions, public schools, universities, and other private organizations that provide foreign language programs.  An E-2 Visa allows a teacher to stay in Korea for one year and comes with an option to extend their stay if they are sponsored by an authorized employer.  

Q: What is an F-1 visa?
A: A F-1 visas are for foreigners wishing to stay in Korea for family or household affairs. Usually, "Kyopos," ethnic Koreans are allowed to apply for F-1 visas.
F-1 visas are categorized in different status:
(a)     A person wishing to stay in Korea in order to help domestic affairs at an embassy or consulate
(b)     A person wishing to stay with family and relatives having A-1, A-2, A-3 qualifications or having permanent residency status abroad
(c)     A person wishing to stay in Korea without employment or sponsorship.
(d)     Anyone who has not be granted a F-2 Visa
An F-1 visa allows an individual to stay in Korea for 2 years with an option for an extension.

Q: What is an F-4 visa?
A: As of December 2, 1999 the Immigration Offices under the directive of the Ministry of Justice started issuing F-4 visas.  As a result, it is now very easy for Korean-Americans ("Kyopos") to get visas.
Prior to issuance of F-4 visas, Korean-Americans found it very difficult to maintain legal residency.  Many people entered Korea on a tourist visa and left the country to renew their period of stay every three months, a costly and bothersome procedure. Usually a person would pass through the immigration check at Fukuoka, Japan and come back just to get a stamp on their passport in order to prolong their stay in Korea.

Q: How long is a work visa?
A: A work visa is a year long, same as your contract. If you happen to have a longer contract, a longer work visa can be obtained.
Once your contract has ended, you will have 14 days to leave the country or have a renewal in your work visa. This extension can be acquired only with a renewal in contract or in finding a new job.

Q: What is a visa-run to Japan?
A: A visa-run to Japan is processing the work visa within Korea. Upon hiring, employees will enter Korea on a tourist visa. (Due to the immediate opening in a position)
Once the employee has arrived, the employer will start processing the work visa. All teachers will need to give the employer either a diploma confirmation or the original diploma certificate. But never your passport, just a photocopy is good. After the paperwork has been completed. The teacher will fly to Japan for a finalization of their work visa.

Q: Do employers pay for visa-runs if the teacher is already in Korea?
A: Usually, visa-run are paid by the employer, but sometimes shared by the employer and employee.

Q: Why are the visa-runs mostly to Japan?
A: Japan is the closest destination to Korea.  Hence, it is the most cost-effective for employers. The cost for a visa - run is about $400-500 US.
 

Housing  & Family
Q: Do I get housing? What kind of housing is provided? (Single or shares?)
 A: Yes, the employer will provide you with housing. In most cases, the housing will be shared with other teachers in an apartment or a villa. Sometimes, the employers provide single housings. All basic furnishings will be provided.  Utilities and telephone bills will be at teacher expense. (Note: Korean law does not require employers to provide free housing.)

Q: Can friends work for the same employer and share the same housing? (Including couples)
A: Yes, you may work for the same employer and live in the same quarters, as long as you both are qualified teachers.   

Q: Can I bring my family?
A: It is not a good idea to bring your family to Korea.  Employers will usually not sponsor and sometimes not allow dependents.  Children will have difficulty with schooling.

Q: I have a degree but my spouse does not.  Can we still go together?
A: It's really up to you. But both candidates must be fully qualified for the teaching position. Your spouse, who does not have a degree will have trouble obtaining a work visa nor a teaching position in Korea.

Q: What are the accommodations like?
A: Teachers will be living in a fully furnished apartment shared with other teachers. (In most cases, two teachers will share the apartment) All teachers are assured of their own private bedroom. You may have to share the kitchen and bathroom.  
Sometimes, teachers may be placed in a home stay program with a Korean family. This is a great opportunity for you to learn about the Korean culture and the language.
(Beware of cultural differences)

Q: Are deposits required for utilities and telephone bills?
A: Before, employers took deposits and return them upon completion of contract.  Now, deposits are not required.  Teachers can have utilities, telephone, and Internet service under their names. (Requires identification and passport)

Q: What if I do not like my housing conditions?
A: You can request for a change in housing to your director. The director will try their best to help you. But you have to consider that the land and rental cost in Korea is very high, especially all houses in Korea require a large sum of deposit.

Q: Will my housing be far from my job?
A: No. Your house will be situated near the school.  Buses and subways can be used to commute from the school to your home. Some adult positions may require travel to teach. Public transportation is the most convenient and inexpensive way to travel.

Q: What is the electricity voltage in Korea?
A: Most appliances and electrical equipments will use 220V plug in ones home. Some may use dual voltage (110 / 220V). Adapters are readily available, but expensive. Rechargeable and regular batteries are accessible. We suggest that you don't bring anything that may use only 110V.

Q: Will I be near other Americans / Canadians / Foreigners?
A: Most schools offer shared-accommodations. (May or may not be a foreigner.) There are over 100,000 English Language Institutes throughout Korea. So, there will be other Foreign English teachers nearby.  There are many Americans/Canadians working in the country. And there are many facilities and services that are mainly offered to foreigners. (Ex: church service, tours, meetings, etc…)

  
Airfare
Q: Are the airfares expensive?
A: Depending on where you are coming from? Round - trip airfares are rather cheaper than buying two one-way tickets at a time.
                                                                                                     
Q: Will the airfare be on my expense?
A: All flights to Korea should paid-for by institute. (Round Trip) All the schools OkayKorea.com is affiliated with will provide round-trip airfare to our teachers. (One-year contract or longer)
But, some places sometimes paid-for the airfare in the form of a bonus for completing the one-year contract. Airfare is not guaranteed and not required by the Korean Law.  However, in the event that you fail to complete the full contract term, you must reimburse the airfare. (Usually six months or before.) Through OkayKorea.com, we only offer teachers the best working condition, including a round-trip airfare.
 

Bank account
 Q: Can I open a bank account and wire money abroad?
A: Yes, you may open a bank account as long as you have a passport.

Q: Can I exchange my money?
Sure, money can be exchanged at the bank or at big department stores or hotels.

Q: What is the exchange for the Korean Currency (won)?
A: -Click for Exchange Rates-

Q: How much money can I send back home?
A: Teachers are allowed to wire as much money abroad as they earn.  Proof of earnings (pay stub) is required when wiring money. Money sent back can be used to pay-off bills and loans.
 

Preparing for Korea
Q: How much money should I take when I go to Korea?
A: Living expenses aren't very high in Korea.  But to get through the first month, you may need about US$400-500 before your first paycheck.

Q: What clothes should I bring?  Should I be prepared for the cold?
A: There are fours distinct seasons in Korea. The conditions are similar to New York and Toronto.  It gets very cold in the winter and it's hot & muggy in the summer.  Late July or early August is monsoon season.  Be prepared for torrential rains during this time.  Ties and dresses are not required to be worn during classes; however, something fashionable is suggested (i.e., collared shirt and slacks for men; blouse and slacks and/or skirts for women.)

Q: What are the typical living costs?
A: It depends on how much you spend, but usually US$400-600 US is sufficient, since the employers pay the housing.
Transportation might run you around 20,000-30,000 won per month.
Utilities are around 30,000-60,000 won per month (depending on use).
Food will cost around 150,000-200,000 won (We advise you to cook at home.
Kitchens are usually provided.)
The living cost in Korea is rather cheap compared to the United States or Canada
Note: these are only estimations for monthly expenses.  Your expenses may vary widely depending on your lifestyle.

-Click for Exchange Rate-

Q: What is Korean food like?
A: Korea foods are very spicy.  It may contain lots of garlic and red pepper.  Be careful!!!  The main entree for Korean food is rice and accompanied by many side dishes. "Bul-Gogi", is a delicious seasoned meat cuisine, and "Kimchi" is pickled vegetable in red pepper is extremely popular in Korea.  Noodles and soups are also popular in Korea.

Q: Is it hard to adjust to living in Korea?
A: Before leaving for Korea you should learn about Korean culture.  The Korean culture is very different from western culture.   Koreans are quite warm and welcoming towards foreigners.
 

About the school
Q: Are there any guidelines for that the "hakwon" (Private Institute) employer must follow? For example: Are teachers guaranteed airfare, severance pay and accommodation?  
A: By law, employers are only required to give severance pay, which is equal to a full month's pay.  Severance pay is only given when the teacher has fulfilled a one-year contract. Providing round-trip airfare and free housing is not mandatory. However, most employers realize how difficult it is for foreigners initially in Korea; hence, they will usually provide airfare and accommodations.  

Q: Do schools have computers or Internet services available?
A: Some schools may, since owning a computer is expensive.  Many foreigners will go to a local Personal Computer Room, where they will be charged 1200 to 1500 won per hour for PC use.  Korea actually has some of the cheapest and most accessible Internet services in the world.

Q: Is medical insurance mandatory?
A: All organizations employing five or more employees must provide medical insurance. The employer pays for half of the medical insurance and the rest is paid by the teacher. The medical insurance is rather inexpensive in Korea (less than 50,000 won a month).

Q: Can I contact my employer before I arrive to Korea?
A: Yes, once you are hired, we provide you with all the information of the employer.
Telephone interviews will be conducted before hiring.  Please feel free to ask questions.

Q: What is the size of classes?
A: The classes in private language schools are generally from 10-14 students.

Q: Who are the students?
A: Different institutes have different types of students.
Children's institutes are pre-school and primary school students.
Adult institutes are from college students and corporate workers.
The size of the classes range from 8 to 15 students

Q: What are the working hours like?
A: Each institute has its own work schedule.  The basic working hours are as follows:
Children: Monday through Friday (Occasional Saturdays or Rotation Schedules) Classes are conducted from 9:30 AM - 7:30 PM. (Depending on the schools)
Adults: These positions are usually split shifts.  Early morning's and evening's classes are conducted from 6:30 AM - 9:30 AM & 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM. (May differ between schools) No teaching on Saturdays.
Teachers will be required to teach 95 to 120 hours a month, but there are always overtime classes.

Q: How many hours will I teach a day?
A: Depending on your schedule, you may teach 5 to 6 hours per day, excluding overtime.
  
Q: How long are the classes?
A: Usually, the children class will run from 40 to 50 minutes. And the adult class will run 50 -60 minutes.

Q: How much class preparation will be required of me?
A: The amount of time spent on class preparation will be up to you.  It is recommended for beginners to spend more time for class preparation everyday.  You will be required
to prepare your daily lesson plans.  After a while, you will have gained some experience and your job will be easy.  Each session usually lasts about 4-5 weeks.
 

Others    
Q: Who will be picking me up at the airport?
A: The director or someone from the institute will be at the airport waiting for you.  They will be holding a sign with your name on it.  If no one is there, wait or call the school. (We at OkayKorea.com, will be waiting for you at the airport)

Q: Do I need to learn Korean?
A: You may learn Korean so that your stay will be more comfortable and enjoyable in Korea.  You can learn expressions that will make your stay in Korea a pleasant one.

Q: Do Koreans speak English?
A; Most Koreans have studied English for many years.  In fact, it is a required course in primary and secondary schools.  However, Koreans are often shy about speaking English to foreigners.

Q: Are private lessons and/or part-time work allowed by the employer?
A: No, private lessons and/or part-time jobs are not encouraged or even allowed by the employer. Your working visa doesn't cover you to teach elsewhere and it is against the law to teach privately due to taxation.  If caught, teachers may either be fined and/or deported.

Q: Can I speak with someone who has completed his/her contract or is teaching in Korea currently?
A: Yes. as soon as you are offered a position, you can speak directly with a teacher currently teaching at the school.

If you are having any trouble or having any problems, we can help. Please call us at Telephone Number: +82-2-536-2742
FAX Number: +82-2-536-2778