TEFL teachers in South Korea typically earn salaries ranging from $1,600 to $2,700 USD monthly. Schools seeking to hire often offer above-average salaries to attract qualified teachers. South Korea is known for its excellent working conditions, modern facilities, and advanced infrastructure, making it a top destination for English teachers. Salary levels vary based on the type of school - public or private - and the teacher's experience, with experienced educators often commanding higher wages.
Table of Contents
What are TEFL salaries in South Korea?
What other benefits can I expect when teaching English in South Korea?
How much can I save while teaching English in South Korea?
What are TEFL salaries in South Korea?
The actual figure you will see on your monthly payslip will depend on several things including the type of school you work in, your level of teaching experience, and what relevant qualifications you have to your name. The typical average monthly salaries are as follows:
Public schools
- First time teachers = 1.8 to 2.0 million KRW ($1,600 to $1,800 USD)
- Experienced teachers = 2.0 to 2.7 million KRW ($1,800 to $2,400 USD)
Private schools
- First time teachers = 2.0 to 2.1 million KRW ($1,800 to $1,900 USD)
- Experienced teachers = 2.1 to 3.0 million KRW ($1,900 to $2,700 USD)
What other benefits can I expect when teaching English in South Korea?
English teachers in South Korea signing contracts with schools can anticipate a comprehensive benefits package, which typically includes:
- Round-trip airfare provided by the employer.
- Private furnished housing, often situated in desirable neighborhoods.
- Enrollment in the national healthcare system.
- A contract completion bonus equivalent to one month's salary.
- Paid vacation time, which is commonly three weeks for public school teachers and two weeks for those in private institutions.
- Approximately 18 national holidays annually, which are paid days off.
Each school's package may differ, but these benefits are standard and contribute significantly to the overall attractiveness of teaching positions in South Korea.
How much can I save while teaching English in South Korea?
The combination of high salaries and a lower cost of living in South Korea allows English teachers to save a substantial portion of their income. The average teacher can expect to save up to 50% of their monthly earnings, depending on personal spending habits. This means that saving between $800 and $1,200 per month is a realistic target for many. Such potential for savings, along with benefits like housing allowances provided by many teaching contracts, positions South Korea as a top destination for TEFL professionals looking to enhance their financial savings.
