Monthly Archives: September 2021

Ultimate 2022 Guide to Jobs in South Korea for Foreigners

Do you want to get jobs in South Korea but don’t know how?

You are not alone — People from far and wide dream of moving there for many good reasons, including employment.

Well, the good news is, you can.

But how easy or difficult is it to find a job in Korea? What are the pros and cons? What do you need, and which visa to get? When and how to apply? 

This article covers all you need to know about jobs in South Korea for foreigners.

So let’s begin right in!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Why work in South Korea?
  • Job prospects in Korea
  • Benefits of working in South Korea
• What are the jobs for foreigners in Korea?
  • (i) English Teacher
  • (ii) Office and other jobs for foreigners
  • (iii) EPS – Employment Permit System
• Requirement for employment
  • Do you need to speak Korean to work in Korea?
  • Where to look for jobs?
  • Procedures and Preparation
• Work Culture in South Korea
  • Points to consider for jobs in Korea
    • (i) Working hours
    • (ii) Holidays
    • (iii) Tax rates
    • (iv) Cost of living
    • (v) Major Cities
• Types of Visas for jobs in Korea
  • (i) Professor- E-1 Visa
  • (ii) E-2 Foreign Language Instructor Visa
  • (iii) Guidance on Technological Issues- E-4 Visa
  • (iv) Special Profession – E-5 Visa
  • (iv) Activities with a Unique Design- E-7 Visa
  • (V) Study Abroad visa
  • (vi) Other Visas
• Should you consider working in Korea?

Why work in South Korea?

The real question is: why not?

South Korea, or Daehan Minguk as the natives call it, is a country garnering people’s attention worldwide.

Starting from being Asia’s fourth-largest economy to housing big market players like Samsung, LG, Hyundai, and POSCO, it has a robust economy.

Just look at the pictures of major cities like Seoul, Busan, Incheon, or Daegu. I’m sure it would captivate you with the beauty of high-rise buildings and picturesque streets co-existing in one space.

South Korea has taken the world by storm with its well-known booming entertainment industry. As an outcome, it has already become a potential cultural superpower internationally.

It is also home to a rich, colorful, and aesthetic culture that aims to establish calm, peace, and prosperity.

The South Korean cuisine is another reason to consider working in or even visiting there profoundly. It caters to all tastes and makes you feel at home with its flavors and ‘visual’ (Korean slang for anything that looks picture-perfect).

If, at this juncture, you are considering exploring this beautiful country (and I’m sure you are), working there would be an ideal way to do it.

It gives you a good and complete experience of all aspects of the culture and lifestyle. Also, it is easy for you to get a visa.

Job prospects in Korea

As far as economic development is concerned, South Korea is one of the most promising countries in Asia.

Because of the ever-growing expansion of big companies and the increase of new businesses, Korea’s job market is enormous and maturing.

South Koreans are now finding it difficult to break into the Korean job market. So instead, they are also looking for prospective employment in countries like China, Japan, Europe, and even the United States.

There is a rising necessity for people who speak other languages beyond the native language of Korea. And that’s why foreigners are more welcome in the employment scenario.

Before diving into it, keep a few things in mind.

Koreans are native speakers and have a better cultural understanding than foreigners. Thus, they will always have an edge. So, instead of competing with Koreans, focus on jobs that you can do better than them.

Find a niche and work where your credentials and background can help the company.

For example, a German will do better for a Korean company that deals with a German-speaking region.

You will be more valuable if your expertise is rare in Korea as a foreigner. Or your task involves communicating with international clients, especially from your home country.

In the heavy competition, you will probably get a job opportunity as an ex-pat in South Korea than native Korean citizens.

We can attribute mainly this to how the country’s image in the global perspective changes and grows. As a result, the number of foreign enterprises and ties increases exponentially.

Once you know some basic Korean language skills, you can see the prospect. You can take the TOPIK exam. You also get the chance of being employed in South Korea to bring diversity and contribute to and develop these ties.

Benefits of working in South Korea

Korean culture places heavy emphasis on human relations and welfare. Thus, Koreans consider human capital to be of great importance and ensure investing in and maintaining it.

This would mean that you would get some top-notch benefits as a part of the Korean workforce.

The advantages provided would differ from one organization to another. But rest assured, your life as an employee in South Korea has many things to look forward to.

Self-improvement is one of the outstanding values in South Korea.

Thus, you can expect the company to offer courses, workshops, and more to help you improve and become better in your field.

Most Korean organizations, large and small, offer lunch in some form or another. Also, many prominent corporations often have an on-site restaurant or cafeteria that serves a range of lunches.

The better the cuisine, the larger the company, and it doesn’t just end at lunch; some corporations will even go ahead to provide breakfast and supper.

Korea’s social security system contributes to the national health insurance system. So, once you are a registered South Korean resident, you can join the public health insurance system despite being a foreigner.

The incentives and motivations for jobs in South Korea are many!

What are the jobs for foreigners in Korea?

South Korea has a high demand for foreigners in various fields. More and more job openings are available now than ever before. The prospects for work are not limited to a few industries but across the board.

Some of these positions won’t require you to have fluent Korean! But, of course, a higher Korean level can help you get more job opportunities.

But don’t let that bring your hopes down. You still have many options. So, let’s look at some of the most popular jobs for foreigners working in Korea.

(i) English Teacher

A teacher is the most accessible and great job to land for a foreigner. In particular, if you are teaching English in South Korea as a second language (ESL). It is the most common way to start a career in Korea.

South Korea has a lot of demand for English speakers. As a result, English teachers are sought after across the country. You can also find job postings all year round.

It is not only in schools, tuition centers, and colleges but also by big corporations for their employees.

You can either work for government public schools like EPIK, SMOE, GEPIK, GOE, TaLK, or one of the many private centers (Hagwon).

Besides a certificate for an English test like TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA, you need to have a bachelor’s degree. It will certainly help if you have prior teaching experience. But it’s not a necessity.

You can apply if you are a native English speaker from the UK, Canada, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, or South Africa. 

You can also apply if you speak fluent English and come from a country with an arrangement with the Korean government. For example, Indians are eligible to apply under the CEPA agreement.

Based on my understanding and what I read, they prefer native speakers. Still, you can apply if you have an excellent native accent, the required certificate, and a superior track record.

As an English teacher in Korea, you can make decent money and get one-of-a-kind personal and professional experience. You’ll quickly get a working visa and live in the place of your dreams.

Teachers also receive financial benefits, such as accommodation and travel expense compensation. This makes this line of work very popular among those wishing to move to South Korea for a job.

Since you will teach English, your lessons and entire work will be entirely in English.

You don’t need to be good at Korean. But, of course, knowing a little would be helpful.

The great news is that you will learn by immersion even though Korean is a hard language.

(ii) Office and other jobs for foreigners

South Korea is also a fast-expanding economy with job openings spread across industries. This includes but is not limited to manufacturing, auto, information technology, healthcare, finance, and more.

Besides, the startup sector is thriving and expanding at a rapid pace.

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, has a thriving startup ecosystem and has spent 1.6 billion dollars to expand it in the coming years.

Despite the epidemic, the government has opted to invest in and support startups amid the crisis.

Other significant work lines famous in South Korea include marketing, entertainment, programming, sales, human relations, public relations, project management, etc.

Such professions require you to be an expert in them. So, employers prefer you over other applicants or locals in the same field.

You can also work as a Korean translator, interpreter, content creator, and other work demanding language ability.

Of course, the most popular combination is English and Korean. But there is a demand for other languages, too, including less-spoken ones.

Average salaries for such jobs range from USD 1,200 to 4,000 per month. But, of course, this depends on the position, experience, and skills.  

Self-employment and freelancing are also very common in South Korea among foreigners.

The opportunities are many. But competition is equally stiff, making it a mixed possibility.

Self-employment is so widely recognized in South Korea that freelancers just need to show that they are qualified. They do not need to be professional and committed employees.

However, being superb at your desired line of work and being fluent in Korean will get you many splendid chances.

The minimum wage policy has a lot of importance in South Korea. This is because the minimum pay rate is around 9,160 won or US$8 per hour. This translates to around INR 600.

This means you can earn a minimum of 1.3 million won or a little over 100 USD per month on just minimum earnings.

(iii) EPS – Employment Permit System

Besides teaching and various white-collar and high-paying jobs in Korea, there are also EPS of migrant workers.

The Employment Permit System (EPS) was introduced in 2004. It provides better treatment for migrant laborers (lower-skilled professions) in Korea.

This requires employees to work in construction, fishery, manufacturing, agriculture, and various heavy and light industries.

From the date of approval, EPS jobs are valid for one year. In the end, you will receive an E-9 visa (working visa) if all goes well.

The Korean government has signed MoUs with 16 countries whose citizens are eligible to apply. Examples are the Philippines, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Mongolia, Vietnam, and Nepal. India isn’t a listed nation.

In addition to age between 19 and 39, and mental and physical fitness, you need to take the EPS-TOPIK exam. This will boost your chances.

Requirement for employment

Some basic requirements are standard across all employment options. For example, to find employment in South Korea, you must have a university diploma.

Plus, your degree must be in an area related to the job you’re looking for.

The specific conditions would differ based on the company and industry that you are applying to.

For example, you might require a TEFL certificate to become an English teacher. Likewise, a management position might demand some prior work experience. Your experience, good health, and no previous criminal record matter too!

Do you need to speak Korean to work in Korea?

Koreans, especially those in big cities, know some English. This is because most schools and universities teach English. Still, they do not speak that well and only understand a bit here and there, mainly written.

Some jobs ask for Korean language ability, but many others do not.

If you are teaching English, you do not need to know Korean. Students are there to learn the language. So, institutions encourage them to converse in English with native teachers.

Although you don’t need to be fluent in the Korean language, beginner learning will benefit you.

I suggest getting functioning knowledge, including the alphabet Hangul and some day-to-day vocabulary and expressions.

Employers certainly prefer employees who speak Korean or are willing to study it. This enables them to better blend with their counterparts and working surroundings.

Language plays a vital role in jobs that require dealing with the local population.

For instance, speaking Korean isn’t optional but compulsory if you work in a hospital or any big shop. Plus, for a career involving Korean, you need to be fluent.

You get enough time to learn, practice and improve your Korean with locals when you stay there. Besides the plenty of options, you will do it in natural settings and in the most authentic way.

Where to look for jobs?

The simplest option is to look for online postings of job openings that companies would upload. Some leading websites include Job Korea, Saramin, Global Korea Center, People N Job, LinkedIn, Work-Net, Craigslist, etc.

If you intend to teach English there, you can try some specific ESL-based sites, agencies that work as mediators, and job boards.

Examples are Dave’s ESL Cafe, Korvia, Gone2Korea, CIEE, English Work, Teach Away, Footprints, Reach to Teach, Teach ESL, Hands Korea, Work N Play, etc.

Plus, you can find job vacancies in some English newspapers like The Korea Times, The Korea Herald, and The Seoul Times.

You could also look for opportunities through newspaper listings after moving to South Korea if you could manage the initial expenses.

This has the advantage of going to in-person or walk-in interviews and making a better impression on your potential employers.

Procedures and Preparation

South Koreans pay attention to detail and prefer certain specifics to be followed. As a result, many companies even have a standard CV format and specifications.

South Korean CVs are often short, comprising specific keywords rather than phrases. Try to stick to the standard format as much as possible.

A point to be noted is that Korean job candidates frequently discuss their professional development, schooling and educational qualifications, and character. And also the reasons for applying for the position they are looking for.

First impressions matter a lot for South Koreans.

They place a lot of importance on appearance, etiquette, and manners. So, make sure to be dressed impeccably and in a formal outfit appropriate for the position you are applying for.

When meeting someone in Korea, it is customary to bow rather than shake hands. Shake the hand of the interviewer only if they start it. Being humble yet confident in yourself will give you an edge in interviews.

Punctuality is essential in an interview. Try and arrive 10—15 minutes before an interview in Korea. If possible, try to bring hard copies of your resume in both English and Korean.

Work Culture in South Korea

South Korea is still a traditional society. But, it believes in incorporating its long-standing values of respect, hierarchy, and humility into a modern culture without losing its core values.

Even after the slow but steady increase in the number of foreigners, most customs remain, especially in their work culture and approach to human relations.

Since South Koreans believe in spending time with each other to build strong bonds, it is not uncommon for the team leader to take the team out for dinners or drinks.

Team dinners, called Hweshik, are a regular activity in South Korean companies to get the stress off. Besides, it forges deeper relations with your colleagues.

South Koreans value respect even for strangers, and thus, if you meet someone for the first time, wait for a third-person (if present) to introduce you.

It will help if you address someone by their formal title and your own.

Hierarchy is such a crucial aspect of South Korean work culture. Thus, it is common to have clear distinctions in mannerisms between hierarchies.

For example, seniority is highly valued in Korea, both by age and occupation.

Points to consider for jobs in Korea

Here are a few points to remember before applying for any job in Korea.

(i) Working hours

South Korea has a long history of working long hours; the typical workweek is 52 hours (40 regular hours plus 12 hours of overtime).

(ii) Holidays

The number of public holidays varies from year to year, ranging from 10 to 16. This is because your paid annual leave grows each year you work for your employer.

(iii) Tax rates

Workers in South Korea must pay income tax and health and pension insurance. The income tax rate varies between 8% and 35 percent.

(iv) Cost of living

The cost of living varies depending on where you live and how you live. Public transportation and utilities are both reasonably priced.

South Korean cuisine is substantially less expensive than Western cuisine. Marketplaces and small businesses are cheaper than big stores.

(v) Major Cities

Seoul, the capital city, is the most common choice among foreigners for its ease of living for English-speaking people.

Busan and Daegu are also excellent cities for opportunities as they are still expanding yet and face high demands.

For those looking for a slightly lower cost of living, Incheon or Jeju are perfect options. But your Korean language skills need to be higher in cities such as Incheon and Jeju.

Types of Visas for jobs in Korea

You must get a visa before leaving there to work in South Korea or stay for over 90 days.

Depending on the profession, there are many types of work visas. Still, the following are some common types:

(i) Professor- E-1 Visa

This visa is for foreigners who want to teach or research at educational institutions above the college level.

While the usual validity is for one year in some situations, they may permit you to remain as long as you require, with five-year renewals possible.

(ii) E-2 Foreign Language Instructor Visa

This is a popular visa in Korea. It is one of the easier to get as you need a Bachelor’s degree, a criminal background check, and a sponsor company.

You can teach languages at private academies, public schools, and similar institutions with it. They give multiple-entry visas for 13 months, and you can renew after 1-year.

(iii) Guidance on Technological Issues- E-4 Visa

This visa is for ex-pats with knowledge of natural science or high technology. A public or private entity must have invited them. Also, the one who has abilities that are not available in Korea.

The multiple-entry visa has a one-year validity period, while the single-entry access is good for three months.

(iv) Special Profession – E-5 Visa

This visa is available to architects, attorneys, medics, accountants, and other professionals. They must be globally licensed. And also need the authorization to practice their field of expertise from the Korean government.

The multiple-entry visa has a one-year validity period, and the single-entry access is good for three months.

(iv) Activities with a Unique Design- E-7 Visa

This aims at ex-pats who engage in the Korean Ministry of Justice-sponsored programs. This is through a public or private organization.

Multiple-entry visas are valid for one to three years, and a single-entry pass is good for three months.

(V) Study Abroad visa

As an international student in Korea, you can work part-time there if you speak some Korean. But there are some conditions.

For example, you need to take a separate part-time work visa (S3) other than a D-type study visa. And you can only apply after a minimum of 6 months from the arrival date.

Plus, you must receive prior approval from your educational institution. This may not be easy to get as they want you to study and not work, the main reason you came there in the first place.

(vi) Other Visas

There are many categories of South Korean visas that exist.

For example, one can take a general temporary South Korean work visa for 90 days. It depends on the duration and the nature of the job.

Short Term Employment (C-4) is for those working in music, play, sports, entertainment, advertising, and fashion. And also those who want to engage in e-business, research, and technology.

Should you consider working in Korea?

Of all the best reasons to learn Korean, jobs in South Korea are one of the biggest motivations for K-lovers! The one-of-a-kind experience will make every struggle worth it.

There is no easy way to achieve your dream. But if you plan wisely and build your profile, you might, one day, be able to live in Korea.

If you really want to make the most out of your visit and gain an unforgettable experience, learn some Korean!

I have done my best to ensure all information is as accurate as possible. Still, a few things are highly dynamic and may change in the future. So be sure to check and verify with the concerned official websites.

Do you plan to apply for jobs in South Korea? Let me know your opinion below!

Work in Korea for Foreigners

If you’re looking for work opportunities and want to know about work in Korea for foreigners, you’ve come to the right place!

In this article, we’ll go into more detail about work in South Korea for foreigners.

Note: We can’t assist you with finding a job in South Korea, we specialize in learning Korean, this post is to provide information and point you in the right direction.

Below is a free PDF guide for “Work in Korea for Foreigners” that you can download:

Get “Work in Korea for Foreigners” Free PDF Guide

Contents

• 1 What to expect for jobs in Korea for foreigners
• 2 How to get jobs in South Korea as a foreigner
  • 2.1 F-series Visa
  • 2.2 Graduate from a Korean University
  • 2.3 Apply for jobs in Korea from your home country
• 3 Is speaking Korean necessary for work in Korea?
• 4 Where to find jobs in South Korea for foreigners?
  • 4.1 Craigslist Korea
  • 4.2 Saramin
  • 4.3 JobKorea
  • 4.4 PeopleNJob
  • 4.5 LinkedIn

What to expect for jobs in Korea for foreigners

The number of foreigners coming to work in Korea has been steadily increasing over the past couple of years. As you might suspect, a good majority of the foreigners working in Asian countries are indeed working in South Korea as native English teachers.

As a popular job, the demand for English teaching positions for native English speakers is very high in South Korea. It’s usually not difficult to get some kind of English teaching job for those with teaching experience, whether in private, public, or cram schools. However, getting the absolute best English teaching jobs in South Korea can be difficult.

Although getting a job in South Korea may not be as easy as it is for an English teacher, it is still possible. However, do bear in mind that there is no single way for you to land a job in this country. Also, note that not every method will work for everyone.

How to get jobs in South Korea as a foreigner

What you need to land a job in South Korea varies. It depends both on your background, on whichever immigration officer you get that day, and on the specific demands of the companies, you’re looking to apply to.

F-series Visa

The easiest way to get a non-teaching job as a foreigner is by having an F-series visa. Why is that? Because by having an F-series visa, you no longer need a visa sponsored by the company. This massively broadens your options of companies and job positions to apply to.

Unfortunately, getting that visa isn’t exactly a piece of cake.

Unless you get married to a Korean person, you usually need to have held onto a job (or several jobs in the same field) for a good while before you can qualify for one. So while it’s the easiest way to get a job in South Korea, it’s not an option for newbies.

Graduate from a Korean University

But while work in South Korea for foreigners can be more complicated without that F-series visa, it’s not impossible! Perhaps the second easiest way for a foreigner to get a job in South Korea is by graduating from a Korean university. Recent college graduates, and past alumni from universities, whether with a bachelor’s or master’s degree, can do this.

You can demonstrate that you’re already familiar with Korea’s culture and language to a degree. Still, immigration will also be more lax on what kind of jobs you are qualified to apply for. In other words, you’re not strictly limited to only getting a job directly in the field of your university degree.

The only main restriction is that the company has to be able to provide you with visa sponsorship. If they can prove that a Korean can’t do the job, they’ll be able to.

Apply for jobs in Korea from your home country

Unfortunately, for those new to South Korea, it is trickier to land a job. Perhaps the best way to go about it would be to find a company in your own country with branches in South Korea. Make sure you are notified of the latest job alert for Korean job opportunities.

Try searching for the best one you can find, and make sure to read through the job description carefully. Otherwise, immigration will require the job position to be in the field of your degree with prior working experience.

You will also need to have a few years’ worth of job experience in that field before you’ll qualify for the work visa.

Is speaking Korean necessary for work in Korea?

Knowing how to speak Korean will also help you tremendously. Even knowing a few words and phrases will help, so it’s a good idea to at least know these words and how to construct Korean sentences to start.

Though, do note (and perhaps take a sigh of relief) that most of the companies open to visa sponsorships for foreign employees are looking specifically for those that are fluent in languages other than Korean.

However, understanding and speaking Korean can be very helpful, especially in your daily life. We have an online course that guarantees to teach you how to have a 3-minute conversation in Korean.

Can’t read Korean yet? Click here to learn for free in about 60 minutes!

Where to find jobs in South Korea for foreigners?

Now it’s time to lay out some methods through which you can get started on your job hunt. One of the quickest ways to find many companies at once is by attending a job fair.

There are two main job fairs arranged every fall. One is for foreign residents in South Korea, and the other is specifically for international students in South Korea.

Besides that, along with networking, there are also several websites out there through which you can find and apply for jobs. Here are a few great examples:

Craigslist Korea

Website: https://seoul.craigslist.co.kr/

This is a hit-or-miss type of job portal. However, the job advertisements are usually in English, and the employees sought after are foreigners. It may not be where you find your dream job, but it’s likely the least intimidating site to start with.

Saramin

Website: https://www.saramin.co.kr/

Saramin is a website entirely in Korean so it may be terrifying to navigate through at first. However, this is one of the main job portals for Koreans themselves to find a job, and there are plenty of jobs from different fields posted where they are looking for foreign language speakers.

JobKorea

Website: https://www.jobkorea.co.kr/

Another job portal that is mainly used in Korea is JobKorea. Similar to Saramin, this website is purely in Korean. However, it’s a great site to explore for jobs as there are a lot of job postings even for foreigners.

PeopleNJob

Website: https://www.peoplenjob.com/

It is said to be the best job portal to find a job in South Korea for foreigners. It looks overwhelming at first glance, but you’ll be relieved to know that there is also an ample amount of jobs there posted in English.

LinkedIn

Website: https://www.linkedin.com/

Unlike the other portals listed here, this is the main place where you can find all the big foreign companies looking for employees in their Korean branches. Companies have job postings all the time, and you can get notifications right on your phone, too!

Once you land an interview, be sure you’re familiar with proper Korean business etiquette so you make an excellent first impression. Familiarizing yourself with the work culture in South Korea will also help you become more prepared.

Good luck with your job hunt! Do you know great ways to find a job in South Korea? Let us know in the comments below!

Photo Credit: BigStockPhoto

Working and Getting a Job in South Korea

• Vladimir Rostev

  InterNations not only helped me finding great business contacts but it moreover helped my family to quickly settle in.

For native Koreans, the South Korea job market has been less than ideal in recent years. South Korea boasts Asia’s fourth largest economy, yet the country struggles to find adequate placement for a workforce that is fast becoming over qualified for the few jobs that are available. In Korea, as in many Asian societies, citizens tend to enter a job and stay with that one company until retirement. Nowadays, Koreans are struggling to enter the market at all and are instead turning to international opportunities in nearby China, Japan, and even as far away at the US.

Expats, on the other hand, will have a bit easier time finding a job in South Korea than Korean nationals. This is largely because as the country gains an international reputation, it is also gaining international companies and relationships. Foreigners are not only being welcomed into the job market to add to and improve these relations, but also because of the need for speakers of languages other than Korean. That being said, expats will improve their chances of being hired if they can demonstrate some skills in the Korean language.

Thinking of relocating to South Korea? Use this guide as a resource for the best ways to find a job in the Asian country as well as what it is like to work there, average salaries, and social security. Working as a self-employed person is more readily accepted in South Korea than when compared to other Asian countries. Working days are the standard Monday through Friday that is found throughout the globe, but expats should be aware that hours can (legally) be anywhere from 40 to 68 hours per week.

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How to Get a Job in South Korea as a Foreigner

With its mixture of beautiful coastlines, lush mountains, and cosmopolitan cities, South Korea is becoming an increasingly popular destinations for expats looking for their next international adventure. If you are one of the many people wondering how to get a job in South Korea as a foreigner, this guide will walk you through the steps you need to take to land the perfect gig in the Land of the Morning Calm.

How to Apply for a Job in South Korea

As with any international job hunt, one of the best ways to get a job in South Korea as a foreigner is by already being in the country. This way, you will not only be able to have in-person interviews, but employers will take you more seriously as an applicant. By being in the country, you demonstrate that you have already started to adapt to the culture and lifestyle, and perhaps have already started to learn the language.

Online

If you are unable to move to Korea before finding a job, there are several online sites you can use:

• JobKorea
• Saramin
• PeopleNJob

In addition to these, you can also use usual job search sites such as LinkedIn and Craigslist.

Newspapers

While this may seem more ‘old school’ when compared to other countries, South Korean jobs are often still published in newspapers. Job postings can be found through the newspaper’s online website or printed in the physical paper. Good papers to checkout include:

• The Korea Herald
• The Korea Times
• The Seoul Times

Job Fair

Korea hosts annual job fairs that specifically targets foreigners. These job fairs will typically be split into two different categories: job fairs for international students and job fairs for international residents. To find the date of these fairs, you can search online for the following terms:

• Oegugin chwieopbangnamhoe/외국인 취업박람회 (in English: “Job fair for foreign residents”)
• Oeguginyuhaksaeng chaeyongbangnamhoe/외국인유학생 채용박람회 (in English: “Job fair for international students”)

Although these fairs are for foreigners, it is best to come with printed copies of your CV and cover letter written in both English and Korean.

Requirements to Work in South Korea

To be eligible to work in South Korea you need a university degree. This degree should be in the same field as the job for which you are applying to. In addition, a knowledge of the Korean language is not necessarily mandatory, but it is highly advisable. It is possible to find jobs in Korean that do not require a knowledge of Korean, but employers will be more favorable to applicants who know Korean (and/or are interested in learning) as it will help them integrate with their coworkers and work culture more fully.

Tips for Landing a Job in South Korea

CV/Resume Tips

South Korea has a specific CV style that expats should adhere to while applying to jobs in the peninsular country. Like other neighboring countries such as Japan, South Korea has a distinct format in which resumes should be written. For the best results, it is advised to download a standard South Korean CV template and fill it in with the relevant information. Do not worry about being too uniform or like everyone else. When Korean HR teams sift through stacks of resumes, having a non-Korean style CV is more likely to hurt your chances rather than help them.

In general, the first page of a Korean style CV will contain your personal information such as your address, date of birth, cell phone number, and email. You will also see spots to write any hobbies you have or a special comment. These are the areas where you can personalize your CV and let your personality and interests come through.

When filling in the information about your education history, keep in mind that the South Korean grading system may be different from your home country. While a direct conversion may be difficult, use your best judgement to convert your GPA to the Korean equivalent.

When filling out your work history, you may note that the sections in the standard Korean CV template are very small. This is because Korean employers only expect to see a brief job description such as “I was an HR specialist” or “I was a software developer. ”

A Note About References

One thing you may notice that is missing from a South Korean resume is a spot for required references. This is because this is not a requirement. Instead, Korean employers will contact a previous employer of their own choosing.

Cover Letter Tips

A cover letter in South Korea is also called a “self-introduction” letter (jagiseogaeseo/자기소개서). As with any cover letter, Korean recruiters will want to know more specific details about your work history and qualifications that make you the perfect candidate for the position to which you are applying. Keep in mind that Korean applicants typically also talk about their career growth, their education, personality, and why they want the job they are applying for.

Interview Tips

When going in for an interview in Korea, you should arrive 10—15 minutes early. Have printed copies of your resume and cover letter, and, if possible, have them in both English and Korean.

It is traditional in Korea to bow instead of shaking hands when meeting someone. Do not try to shake the interviewer’s hand unless they initiate.

Be aware that the entire interview process could take a few weeks or even a few months. You may also be asked to submit a Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) score.

Networking Tips

As a foreigner, you will find yourself warmly welcomed in Korea. This will be a boon when it comes to networking as you will find many Korean nationals will be happy to speak with you. Receiving a business card is considered an “invitation to contact,” in Korea. If you receive a business card from someone, be sure to follow up with an email afterwards. Likewise, make sure to always carry business cards with you.

In addition to networking with Korean nationals, it is also a good idea to network with fellow expats as they will be the most familiar with what it’s like working in South Korea as a foreigner. InterNations has an active chapter in Seoul that would be a great starting point to building a professional in South Korea. Even if you are not moving to the capitol city, joining the online platform is a great way to get tips and advice from other expats living and working in the country.

Job Opportunities in South Korea for Foreigners

One of the greatest opportunities for expats wanting to live and work in South Korea is by teaching English. For starters, teaching English does not require extensive knowledge of Korean, and some schools even prefer for teachers to not be bilingual because they want their Korean students to be forced to learn and practice English. English proficiency is also a highly valued skill in Korea, making English teachers one of the more sought out professions.

In addition to teaching English, other sectors where expats will find a lot of opportunities are in IT, general office administration jobs, manufacturing, and careers related to health, science, research, and technology.

Minimum Wage and Average Salary

Throughout the expat community, South Korea has a reputation as having a high average salary, and a destination where foreigners can save a great amount of money. However, this reputation largely comes from foreign English teachers, who are given expat packages that include roundtrip flights to their home country as well as paid-for accommodation through their school. Thus, their expenses are spared having to spend much on rent or international flights.

That being said, the average salary throughout South Korea is 44,812,260 KRW (38,000 USD) per year. In Seoul it is 65,431,200 KRW (55,500 USD). The legal minimum wage, established in 1988, recently saw a nearly 11% increase to 8,350 KRW (7 USD) per hour. Working full-time at this rate will earn employees a yearly minimum salary of 17,368,000 KRW (14,700 USD).

What is a good salary in South Korea? That depends on where you live in the peninsular country. The chart below takes a look of some of the most popular expat destinations in South Korea and the average annual salary needed for a decent living.

For a Family of Four

City
KRW
USD
Seoul
7,000,000
5,900
Jeju Island
6,200,000
5,200
Busan
6,000,000
5,050
Incheon
5,500,000
4,600

For a Single Expat

City
KRW
USD
Seoul
880,000
740
Jeju Island
800,000
700
Busan
550,000
460
Incheon
550,000
460

The Most In-Demand Jobs and How Much They Pay

Expats who work in the following fields will find the greatest amount of work opportunities.

Job
KRW (monthly)
USD (monthly)
Editor/Content Writer
2,000,000—5,500,000
1,680—4,600
Sales and Marketing
1,500,000—4,200,000
1,260—3,540
Public Relations
2,000,000—5,000,000
1,680—4,200
Securities Analysts
3,000,000—7,700,000
2,530—6,500
Programmers and Developers
1,500,000—4,200,000
1,260—3,540
Project Manager
4,000,000—5,600,000
3,370—4,700
Teachers (English)
1,860,000—3,000,000
1,570—2,530

In addition to the above job sectors, below is a look at specific job titles and their average annual salaries in South Korea.

Profession
KRW
USD
Software Engineer
78,454,200
66,040
Architect
37,716,000
31,680
Marketing Manager
63,131,000
53,030
Product Manager
72,400,400
60,940
Web Developer
51,425,700
43,200
UX Designer
55,300,000
46,450
Teacher
54,302,200
45,700
Accountant
55,104,000
46,290
Nurse
41,257,600
34,700

Self-Employment

Self-employment in South Korea is an option for many expats. The country has a handful of self-employment visas that foreigners can apply for a use to bring their business ventures to the Land of the Morning Calm.

How to be Self-Employed in South Korea

Moving to South Korea may be a bit tough. However, unlike neighboring Japan, where freelancing is difficult because of stigmas that people who do not work in a traditional office are lazy, in South Korea it is almost the opposite. Self-employed people are so common, and so often hired, in South Korea that the market is over saturated. As a freelancer, you will find plenty of job opportunities, but also plenty of competition.

Tips for Finding Freelance Work in South Korea

One way to start searching for self-employment opportunities in South Korea is to look online. As a hyper modern society, Korea relies on technology for many day-to-day needs, including job finding.

The best sites to use for finding freelance work online are:

• Kmong;
• Fiverr;
• Wishket;
• Soomgo;
• Upwork.

Foreigners interested in being self-employed in South Korea should also come prepared with an impressive portfolio. It is not easy to start freelancing from scratch in Korea simply because there are so many other freelancers in the country with the same expertise and experience. If you have yet to move to the country, try to build up your client/reference base before relocating. If you have already made your move, create sample projects demonstrating the type of work you can produce.

Many freelancing expats choose to move to South Korea and teach English for a few months until they are able to build up a decent amount of freelance work. This is also a more secure way of living in the Asian country and visas for teachers typically last one year, while self-employment visas must be renewed more often.

As with working for a traditional company in South Korea, it is best to know Korean in order to work as a freelancer. You do not need to be fluent, but basic knowledge will go a long way, as will continuing to study the language while you are living in the country. This will boost your hiring chances as you will be able to communicate with more potential clients than someone who knows no Korean. When posting your resume and brief bio on job search sites, it is best to have written versions in both English and Korean. For help, contact the relocation professionals at InterNations We can set you up with language classes as well as experienced translators who can help you prepare a flawless CV that is sure to get you hired.

Self-Employed Benefits in South Korea

One benefit to working in South Korea as a freelancer is a benefit expats will find anywhere: the ability to create your own schedule. Korea is a fascinating country with much to see and do. The cities have active night scenes, which can lead to late evenings and even later mornings. Being able to create your own schedule and work at your own pace will go a long way to helping newly arrived foreigners get as much out of their South Korean experience as they can.

In addition to this, Korea’s ready acceptance of freelancers is also a benefit. In other Asian countries, self-employed people have to work extra hard to gain the trust of clients. In South Korea, self-employment is so widely accepted that freelancers only need to prove that they are right for the job, rather than also having to prove they are professional, dedicated workers.

Top Self-Employed Jobs in South Korea

Self-employed expats who work in IT, development, or other computer-related professions will find many freelance opportunities in South Korea. Those interested in gaming technology or innovative design will be especially sought after.

In contrast to IT work, translation work is also a popular freelance opportunity in South Korea. The country is still in the midst of gaining international recognition and partnerships, which makes the use of other languages in business crucial. Expats who are bilingual will easily find work.

Other popular self-employment jobs in South Korea:

• graphic designer
• UX designer
• content writer
• web developer

Get advice on working abroad in South Korea

Connect with expats & locals and find the best job for you.

Business Culture

Whether you are moving to South Korea for work or you are going for a business trip, there are certain business culture etiquettes you should be aware of. Although the country is seeing an influx of more and more foreigners, as a whole, South Korean society is still deeply rooted in their longstanding traditions of respect, hierarchy, and humility.

Greetings

When greeting someone for the first time, you should wait to be introduced by a third party. It is customary to bow, but handshakes are also becoming more and more standard. You should greet someone by their formal title and use your own title as well. This will immediately establish hierarchy.

Business Cards

Exchanging business cards upon first meeting someone is standard. The giving and receiving of a business card should be done with done hands. As a business card is seen as the extension of a person in Korea, it should be treated with the utmost respect. Do not simply slide it into your pocket. Instead, place it on the table in front of you for the duration of the meeting and then put it in a specific business card holder.

Hierarchy

As mentioned above, it is important to establish hierarchy right away as this is an important part of South Korean work culture. Korea has great respect for seniority, both in age and profession. Business decisions are typically made as a group but starting in order of hierarchy.

Should you meet a business associate who “outranks” you, you should show them a good deal of respect. That being said, if you are senior to someone, you should still treat them with respect and humility, as these are important traits in Korean society.

Do not be surprised if someone you are senior to does not make much eye contact during a meeting. This tendency is changing in more modern Korean society, but some of your colleagues may still adhere to it. Likewise, be aware of the direct eye contact you make with someone senior to you.

Gift Giving

Gift giving is common when first meeting a business partner. Just like with the business cards, the gift should be present with both hands. If you are giving gifts to more than one person, the gift with the greatest value should go to the most senior person.

Meetings

One aspect of South Korean business culture that may surprise foreigners is that it is customary to schedule meetings a few weeks in advance. That being said, do not be surprised if the meeting is then canceled at the last minute. This is not meant to be rude. However, if a meeting is canceled more than once then it may be a sign from your Korean colleagues that they do not want to have the meeting.

Meetings should only be scheduled between 10:00—12:00 and 14:00—16:00.

Punctuality

Punctuality is seen as a sign of respect in Korea. You should always aim to be 10 to 15 minutes early. If you know, or suspect, you will be late, you should alert whoever you are meeting.

Dress Code

The South Korean culture leans towards the conservative, and this extends to the dress code in the workplace. Men should wear white button-up shirts with dark suits. Women should also wear darker colors and aim for business suits or skirt suits.

Social Security and Benefits

Social security in South Korea operates in a similar fashion to what is found in many other countries around the globe. What is a social security number in South Korea? A social security number is a 13-digit number that all residents, both national and foreign, are required to have. This number is typically referred to as a resident registration number.

The resident registration number is generated by listing the person’s birth date in the first six numbers, then designating their sex and century in which they were born with the seventh number. The following six digits signify where the person was born, differentiate people born on the same day, and whether they are a foreign or national citizen.

In Korean, a resident registration number can be referred to one of two ways:

• Jumin deungnok beonho/주민등록번호
• Deungnok beonho/등록번호

How to Get a Social Security Number South Korea

Can a foreigner get a social security number in South Korea? Yes, and as a foreign resident, you will need this number in order to set up a bank account, get a Korean phone number, and other necessary tasks when settling in a new home.

You will apply for a social security number in South Korea at the same time you apply for your Alien Registration Card (ARC): oegugin deungnokjeung/외국인 등록증. Depending on where you live in South Korea, you will need to visit the appropriate Immigration office branch for your specific region. To apply, you will need:

• Completed application;
• your passport;
• passport-sized photograph;
• Korean visa;
• supporting documents that are related to your visa.

There is no official social security card in South Korea. Instead, your resident registration number will be printed on your ARC, and you can carry this around as an official form of identification (even taking the place of your passport).

Foreign residents will receive a blue card. Permanent residents will receive green. You should receive this card within a few weeks of submitting your application.

Social Security Benefits South Korea

Part of Korea’s social security scheme pays into the public health insurance. As a foreigner, you are able to take part of the public health insurance once you are a registered South Korean resident.

The other part of social security is paid into the country’s national pension plan, which acts as a retirement fund. If you do not plan on remaining in Korea for more than five years, it may be possible to receive the amount you paid into the scheme as a lump sum upon your departure from the Asian country.

Maternity and Paternity Leave

How long is maternity leave in South Korea? When compared to neighboring Asian countries, South Korea’s maternity leave policy falls in the middle: not a ton of paid leave, but also not a minuscule amount. Working mothers receive 90 days of paid maternity leave in South Korea. This leave should be split, with at least 45 days being used after the birth. The final 30 days of the maternity leave are funded by the Unemployment Insurance Fund.

As an added bonus, couples that are trying to get pregnant are allotted three days of fertility treatment leave. Only the first day will be paid, but the other two days will not count towards vacation days.

Maternity Leave Benefits in South Korea

In addition to the paid leave, new mothers who are nursing are allotted two 30-minute periods per day to nurse their child. They can do this up until the child turns one year old (as a note: children in Korea are considered “one” on the day they are born, but the nursing policy is valid for one full calendar year following the child’s birth).

South Korea also has childcare leave, which dictates that parents can reduce their working hours for another full year. This year can be taken any time before the child turns eight.

Paternity Leave and Benefits

South Korean employers are required to give ten days of paternity leave to new fathers. Employees may request extra time within the first 90 days of the birth, but whether or not the time will be granted is up to the discretion of the employer. With the increase of fathers taking paternity leave in South Korea, the government is looking at extending the mandated leave, but has yet to officially decree anything yet.

See all upcoming events for expats in South Korea

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The Ultimate Guide to Jobs in Korea for Foreigners [2022]

Looking for a fresh start?

This post covers all you need to know about jobs in Korea for foreigners.

It includes:

• How to find your first job
• The pros and cons of working in Korea
• When to apply
• Which Visa to get

I got my first job in South Korea in 2006 and worked in 8 different industries. Here’s what I learned from my experience.

Let’s dive right in!

Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond in Gyeongju, South Korea

ESSENTIAL JOB TIPS:

• Apply in early Spring for the most job options.
• You don’t need TEFL to get an English teaching job, but it helps. International TEFL Academy has the highest rating on Google, and offers practical training and job placement for new teachers.
• Get a copy of your employment contract in Korean and English, and check for penalty clauses.
• Ask to see your housing before signing.
• Learning Korean is the one thing I wish I did beforehand. Try Pimsleur here for free and get fluent in 90 days.

Jump to:

Listen to this Article

How to Get your First Job in South Korea as an Expat

Step 1. Make sure you have the right qualifications

To qualify for a basic work visa, you need:

• Passport
• Bachelor’s Degree
• Clean criminal record
• Health screening

Optional: TEFL gives you confidence and practical experience as a first-time English teacher. With lifetime placement in 80 countries, International TEFL Academy is rated 9.7/10 from thousands of reviews on multiple platforms.

Step 2. Find the right job online

Decide which city you want to live in and what kind of work you want to do.

Check the company’s reputation online. You can check some private English academies through Reddit or Dave’s ESL Cafe.

Step 3. Apply

Send all required documents including:

• Resume
• Picture

Be prepared to do a phone or video interview.

If you get the job, ask to see pictures of your housing.

Step 4. Get packed

Make sure to bring:

• Warm winter clothes
• Prescription medication in bulk
• Vitamins and pain relievers in bulk
• Melanin for light sleepers
• Unlocked phone
• Your favorite spices
• Power converter if you’re not coming from the EU (they use 220 volt plug C and F)

More about Moving to Korea and What to Pack

What it’s like to work in South Korea

I worked in Seoul and Gyeonggi-do for 10 years, and started a business I’ve been running since 2013. I only had to apply for one job during that period (I’ve spent more time helping others find work). It was actually a position I found on monster. com in 2006, before leaving the states. Even though I didn’t have much work experience, there were many options.

I found the best opportunities through networking. 

While living in Korea, I found work as an actor, model, marketer, salesperson, lecturer, and interviewer. I gave private English lessons to celebrities, CEOs, and high-ranking government officials. I even worked at a Stewardess Academy, a concept that doesn’t exist in most countries.

More about Working in Korea as an Expat

Working in Korea provided me with a wealth of experience and a new perspective. I also learned the language and traveled all over the region.

It even helped me start a business and a blog, which I wouldn’t have done back home.

More about Starting a Business in Korea as an Expat

I highly recommend it for recent college graduates or anyone looking to make a change in their life.

What are the benefits of working in Korea?

There are many benefits to working in Korea.  

With its natural beauty, ultra-modern cities and vibrant expat community, Korea is a great place to relocate. 

There are many opportunities for English-speakers that you won’t find at home.

It’s fun to live in Korea, especially in your twenties. There are enough neighborhoods with bars, clubs and restaurants to keep you busy for a decade. 

In Fact:

You can have a high-standard of living in South Korea. Even for entry-level private academy jobs, the base salary is around 2 million KRW ($1,800) along with housing and insurance. This is enough to live comfortably and enjoy a variety of activities.

Korea has fast and convenient online shopping.

You can even save money in the process and spend it on travel in between contracts.

South Korea has an excellent healthcare system that will cost you about 100 USD a month.

You get paid one month’s salary for every year you work. This is known as 퇴직금 or severance pay.

Many jobs pay for your flight into the country and flight home after a year.

Korea has very effective disease control measures and takes pandemics seriously. Infection rates are relatively low given the dense population.

More about Traveling to Korea during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Korea has a rich and unique culture that’s fascinating to learn about.

The country has something for everyone. Whether you’re into nature, history, food, or K-dramas and K-pop, you’ll never get bored.

Korea has a relatively low crime rate for a developed country. It’s not uncommon for people to forget their laptops or wallets at a café and come back to find them untouched.

Violent crime is also very low, even in a densely-packed city like Seoul.

Education has been a priority in Korea for hundreds of years. Families can send their children to a range of international schools.

Korea has top universities as well. There are also ways to get your master’s degree for free at universities like Yonsei.

Seoul attracts expats from all over the world, so you’ll interact with a diverse group of people.

You won’t need a car in Seoul and most parts of the country.

Korea has a network of buses and a modern subway that can be accessed with one transportation card.

Since a round trip on public transport costs around 2 dollars, your transportation budget can be $50-100 dollars a month.

What are the drawbacks to working in Korea?

Life in Korea comes with many emotional peaks and valleys. There are times when it’s the best place in the world, and times when you wish you were elsewhere. It’s definitely not for the faint of heart. But, you’ll never know until you try.

Working hours can be long and you’re somewhat expected to stay longer (You can get away not doing this, but Koreans are pressured to stay until the boss leaves and sometimes even attend after-work gatherings).

More about Labor Rights in Korea

Harmony and relationships are often more important that merit and results. This is a positive for some.

Politics might be part of your job description whether you like it or not. (Having Nunchi or intuition helps!)

Traffic can be an issue during commuting times in Seoul and even Busan. It’s often quicker to take the subway. Make sure to check how far your place is from work.

Where can I find jobs in Korea?

English teaching jobs

Worknplay – A very active site with tons of English teaching jobs. They also have travel and study sections.

Englishspectrum – As you can imagine, this site specializes in jobs for English speakers in Korea. In addition to English teacher positions, there are also jobs in hostels where accommodation is included. 

Seoul Professionals – Has mostly English teaching job opportunities. 

Craigslist – While not the most reliable place to find a job, there are many English teacher and server positions of varying quality. 

Dave’s ESL Cafe – An old standby that mainly consists of ESL jobs. The forums also contain a wealth of info on living in Korea. 

More about Teaching English in Korea

Corporate jobs

LinkedIn – You probably have heard of this one. They have an army of recruiters and endless job opportunities. It’s a great place to network, especially given the global situation.

Robert Walters – A great place for corporate jobs in Korea. 

Indeed – The newish kid on the block that’s growing rapidly. You can find all kinds of jobs here.

Glassdoor– A great place to find corporate jobs as well as info on what it’s like to work at each company. You can even research companies and compare salaries.

Seoul Global Center – A government organization created to help foreigners get jobs or start a business. They offer many free services in over 10 languages. Their help was instrumental in the success of my first business.  

University Jobs

Higher Ed Jobs – Perfect for post doctorate graduates who want to find lecture and research opportunities.

Internships

The rules for internship employment have changed under the Moon Jae-in presidency. Now companies are required to pay a minimum of 1.8 million KRW a month and provide four kinds of insurance (4대보험).

Kopra – A place to find internships in Korea and other Asian countries.

Worknet – Is run by the Korea Employment Information Service and has some interesting job choices.

Volunteer Opportunities

Most volunteer abroad gigs are 18-25 hours a week, offer accommodation and some meals. It can be a bit tricky to know if you’re actually helping a non-profit or just providing indentured servitude. Make sure to check out the place thoroughly beforehand.

PSCORE – A non-religious organization that seeks to help unify the two Koreas.

Other Sources

Chambers of Commerce – Check the Chamber of Commerce of your country in Korea for job opportunities not found anywhere else. They’re often looking for highly qualified applicants. 

Korean company websites – Some Korean companies actually seek talent overseas and will have a page on their website where expats can search for jobs. So if you have a place in mind, make sure to check out their site to see if they’re hiring.

Which visa do I need to work in Korea?

Fortunately, there’s a visa for practically everyone who wants to work in Korea. The two main types of visas fall under “sponsored” or “non-sponsored” categories. Visas rules change every year, so check this website to find the latest requirements.

Here’s a list of the most common work visas. If you can’t find what you’re looking for here, you can go to The Ministry of Foreign Affairs website to see the complete list. 

Tourist Visas

Most visitors to Korea receive a 90-day tourist visa. This doesn’t allow you to work legally, but some do so under the table and go on visa runs every three months. I’ve met people who’ve done this, but it’s only a matter of time before immigration catches on. This might result in a fine and/or being banned from entering the country for a while.

You can’t change a tourist visa into a work visa while staying in the country. You have to do so at a South Korean consulate or embassy outside South Korea.

Sponsored w

ork-related Visas or E Visas

All E visas are sponsored by The Korean Department of Immigration and the Korean Department of Consular Affairs (Korean Consulates).

You need to register at a local immigration office if you plan to stay in Korea longer than three months. There’s a penalty if you don’t. (A-1, A-2 and A-3 visas are exempt from this since they’re for diplomats and government officials).

Expats can register with an application, and once they’re approved, their passport is stamped and an ARC (Alien Registration Card) is issued. The Korean government is considering changing name of this card since it sounds a tad dehumanizing.

It can take three to four days to received your ARC. The card allows you to apply for a driver’s license and open a bank account. You’re required to carry the card at all times while in South Korea. Contrary to what you might hear, police don’t walk around asking random foreigners to present their card. I’ve forgotten a few times and never had a problem. You’ll need one if you want to enter a nightclub though.

If your ARC is lost or damaged, you must re-apply for a new one at the local immigration office within two weeks.

If you switch jobs with one of these visas, you’ll also need to change your visa, since employers sponsor them. It’s possible to do so without leaving the country, if you have right documents.

Your current employer needs to sign a letter of release, which can be submitted to the immigration office, along with your passport and ARC.

Employers are often reluctant to hand out release letters, so expect not to get one unless you have a great relationship with yours.

E-1 Professor Visa 

This visa is for expats interested in lecturing or conducting research in their field at universities.  It’s a multi-entry visa that’s valid for one year. 

E-2 Foreign Language Instructor Visa

This is one of the most popular visas in Korea. Coincidentally, it’s also one of the easiest to get since you only need a Bachelor’s degree, criminal background check and a company willing to sponsor you. 

It allows you to teach languages at private academies, public schools and other similar institutions. This multiple-entry visa is granted for 13 months and can be renewed in one-year intervals.

I would highly recommend checking out the company you might work for on Dave’s ESL Cafe before signing a contract. Otherwise, your experience will be left up to chance.

E-3 Research Visa

A special visa for those invited by public or private institutions to conduct natural science and advanced technology research. It’s also a one-year multi-entry visa that can be renewed.

E-4 Technological Guidance Visa

Expats who are invited by public or private organizations to share their expertise in natural science or high technology can get this visa.

E-5 Special Profession Visa

Lawyers, CPAs, physicians and others with similar professions who want to practice in Korea qualify for this visa. 

E-6 Culture and Art Visa

This visa covers a lot of ground and is used by everyone from musicians, athletes, models, and even members of adult entertainment workers.

E-7 Specially Designed Activities Visa

A special visa that targets individuals who participate in activities designated by the Korean Ministry of Justice through a public or private organization. We’re not entirely sure what that means, so consult an immigration lawyer if you’re interested. 

H-1 Visa

A visa for tourists seeking short-term employment in order to pay for living expenses.

The applicant’s country must have an MOU or official agreement with Korea regarding working holidays.

Non-sponsored Visas: F and D Visas

These are the best Visas if you plan on working long-term in Korea. I highly recommend getting one if you want the freedom to choose your employer without getting a release letter signed.

I was fortunate enough to get one after a few months. Having an F visa made things a lot easier, since I could work anywhere legally.

D-5 Long-Term News Coverage Visa

A 3-month visa for reporters working for foreign media that can be extended. This covers those employed by broadcasting companies, newspapers, magazines, etc.

F-4 Overseas Korean Visa

The perfect visa for those lucky enough to be born Korean in another country. It allows you to work anywhere without a sponsor. It’s also good for 3 years and is multi-entry. You just have to prove that you’re Korean by showing your birth certificate and family tree.

F-6 Marriage Visa

A great way to stay in Korea indefinitely. The only catch is you have to marry someone from there. Like the F-4 visa, it allows you to work freely anywhere in the country.

D-81 Investment Visa 

For those of us who have $100,000 laying around, you can simply invest your troubles away into a company you plan on starting in Korea. You’ll then be blessed with a long-term visa and be the envy of expats everywhere.

When should I apply for jobs in Korea?

You can apply anytime, because companies hire year-round.

For jobs in some industries, it can be a good idea to try during their main hiring season. Here are some of the better times to apply for:

Teaching jobs at public schools

Many public schools hire in February and March, or in August and September, which are when semesters begin.

Teaching jobs at private academies

Hagwons are always looking for instructors because of their high turnover rate. Many teachers leave after a year.

Teaching positions at universities

Most universities hold job fairs in September and October.

Corporate positions

Most large companies have open recruitment seasons (공채시즌) in March for 1H and September for 2H.

Do I need to speak Korean to work in Korea?

Everyone in Korea studies English from elementary school to university. This doesn’t mean they can all speak the language, but they’re familiar with the grammar and vocabulary. 

Some jobs may require you to speak Korean, but there are plenty of others that don’t. You won’t need to speak Korean to teach English at a private academy. In fact, it’s often discouraged since students are there to converse with native English speakers.

Basic Korean words and phrases you need to know

It’s extremely helpful to be able to read and converse at a basic level if you plan to stay for a long period of time. I was able to get some of my best jobs by speaking Korean. Being fluent in Korean earns a lot of respect from locals, since you took the time and made the effort to learn. Also, in the office environment, there will be some employees who are more comfortable speaking Korean. Being able to do so will make life a lot easier for everyone.

The fastest way I’ve found to get fluent in Korean is with guided conversation. Pimsleur took me from 0 to conversational in three months. You can try Pimsleur here for free!

A TOPIK score might be necessary for jobs that require proficiency in the Korean language. But even so, many people will prefer to speak English, since it’s free practice and private lessons are expensive in Korea.

What are the most popular jobs in South Korea?

English teacher at a private academy (학원 or hagwon) is the most popular job for non-Koreans who don’t want to work at a factory. All you need is a Bachelor’s Degree and a criminal background check. 

There’s a strong love/hate relationship with this kind of job in the expat community.

Pros:

• They’re pretty easy to get
• There are plenty of them
• They pay relatively well

Cons:

• They can be stressful
• They’re usually dead end since there’s not many future prospects besides managing other teachers
• They leave you at the mercy of the owner (원장, wonjang). This is because your visa is sponsored by them, and you’re unable to change jobs mid-contract unless they release you. 

So, if you’re unlucky and land a job at a less than reputable place, you’ll be stuck there for a year or forced to go back home until your contract expires. Then you can apply for another job.

***Update 2022***

It was confirmed by a recent phone call that you simply need to leave the country and can reapply immediately overseas. It’s unclear when this changed or if this was always the case. It helps to check since Korean immigration laws are unclear.

***

Always make sure to screen potential academies on Dave’s ESL Cafe or Reddit. Just type in the name of the hagwon you plan to work at in the forum and see if anything turns up.

What other types of English teaching jobs are there besides hagwons?

After-school programs

There are after school programs that run from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. These are sponsored by the government and generally have better working conditions than hagwons.

Phone English

You can also teach phone English now, although the hourly rate can be relatively low. The pay ranges from $10 to $40 per hour depending on whether you’re willing to do video calls and your level of experience. But what you give up in income, you gain in the ability to work in your pajamas.

University jobs

The Holy Grail of teaching jobs in Korea. Anyone who teaches English secretly wishes they could get one. It has probably the lowest number of teaching hours per week and the highest number of vacation days, up to four months. In most cases, you don’t actually need a Master’s or Ph.D, although it can help.

How do I get a university job in Korea?

These jobs are very competitive as you can imagine. In Korea, having a good relationship can sometimes be more important than your qualifications. The best way to get one of these is to network and have a good reputation.

Try taking a cooking class, joining a dance or book club. Check out Meetup.com for a “Speed Networking” event.

TEFL jobs in South Korea

Some English teaching jobs require a TEFL certification. There are hundreds of places that will certify you, but all TEFL certifications are equal in the eyes of employers. Course quality and price are the main differences between them.

Getting certified is more about the hands-on experience than the actual qualification. Most hagwons in Korea offer minimal training, so it’s good to learn some teaching techniques beforehand.

If you’re serious about teaching English as a second language, and want to get some experience before being in front of a classroom, then I recommend getting one. They offer job placement services as well and make it easier to find positions in countries besides Korea.

Here are a few TEFL organizations that are always looking for potential teachers:

Best for Budget and Convenience

The TEFL Org is the most reputable program for the price among the ones I’ve researched. They have a variety of courses and locations around the world, but their virtual classroom is where they really shine.

They provide:

• Internationally recognized TEFL certificate
• The TEFL Org’s internationally recognized BAC, SQA and ODLQC center accreditation
• Lifetime TEFL CV support
• Lifetime access to TEFL job center
• Downloadable TEFL course book
• Personal online TEFL tutor
• 6 months to complete your online work

Best All Around

International TEFL Academy is a good choice if you prefer to learn in-person and want more practice time.

They provide:

• Online courses and in-person training at 25 locations around the world
• 100 hours of coursework
• 6-20 hours of practicum (live practice teaching and observation with an actual non-native English speaker)
• An accredited curriculum from a recognized, independent organization within the field
• Training by a qualified instructor (who has an equivalent to a Master Degree in TESOL or related field)
• Lifetime job search guidance

CELTA

If you’re very serious about a career as an English teacher abroad, you can always look into CELTA. It’s a more intensive course that provides:

• 120 hours of contact time
• Practical teaching skills and the theory behind them
• Real-life teaching experience and time management
• Assessment on written assignments and face-to-face teaching skills

How do I apply for an office job in Korea?

Office jobs in Seoul, South Korea

For a country with skyscrapers and ultra-modern apartments, Korea can be old-fashioned sometimes. They still prefer to do business face to face, so you’ll get better results being there in person. 

In your home country

If you’re in your home country, it’s still possible to get a job, it’s just harder. There are English teaching positions that you can find online to get your foot in the door. 

In Korea

Once you’re in Korea, you can network and apply for jobs in person. This will give you a much higher chance of getting the position you really want, since a lot of the good ones go to referrals. You also have more credibility, because you’ve already shown you can adapt to the local culture. 

One way to make getting a job in Korea easier is to graduate from a Korean university. This will give you priority with immigration and let you apply for a wider range of positions. I’ve had many friends who graduated from Yonsei with a Master’s Degree that were able to get jobs outside their field. 

Newspapers 

Newspapers can be a surprisingly good source for jobs in Korea. You can even find work as a freelance writer and journalist. Here are a few of the larger and more reputable newspapers:

• The Korea Herald
• The Korea Times – Home
• The Seoul Times

Job fairs

Jobs are serious business in Korea and there’s a whole industry devoted to helping you find one. There are annual job fairs just for foreigners. Here are the two main types: 

• 2019 외국인 취업박람회 For students
• 외국인 취업박람회 For residents

These job fairs may be targeting foreigners, but they operate very much in the Korean way. Make sure to bring copies of your CV and cover letter in both English and Korean.

Also, it’s a good idea to maintain Korean business etiquette while you’re there.

General

requirements to work in South Korea

University degree

Having a bachelor’s degree isn’t necessary, but it’s a good idea. There are positions you can get with a high school education, but they’re generally sales or server jobs with less-than-ideal working conditions. I’ve met people who have done this and opened their own restaurants or other businesses. It’s just a much tougher road to travel. 

Clean criminal record

Most companies require an apostilled criminal background check from your local intelligence agency. Here are some of the main organizations that provide them based on your citizenship.

• US citizens: FBI
• Canadian citizens: RCMP
• Irish citizens: Ireland’s National Police Service
• Australian citizens: Australian Federal Police
• New Zealand citizens: Ministry of Justice
• UK citizens: Disclosure Scotland
• South African citizens: SAPC

Health screening

Like registering at your local immigration office, this must be completed within 3 months of arriving in Korea. It covers 21 items including interview, chest radiography examination, blood test, and urinalysis. Tests must be completed at government-approved hospitals. You can ask your handler for help finding one nearby.

Cannabis is very illegal, so make sure it doesn’t show up on your test. Also, pain pills are known to register false positives, so it’s a good idea to avoid taking anything the week of the test.

A positive drug test terminates your employment contract.

For the medical exam you’ll need:

• 2-5 passport-sized photos
• A valid Passport
• 70,000~130,000 KRW (1,000 – 5,000 KRW for additional copies of check-up results)
• To fast for at least 8 hours before the tests
• An appointment depending on the hospital

Other requirements to work in South Korea

These aren’t mandatory, but will increase your chances of finding work in Korea.

Professional look

Appearances are very important in Korea. This doesn’t mean you have to look like a model, but you should present yourself well. Dressing for success and proper grooming will make your job search a lot easier.

Also, a professional profile picture won’t hurt since Korean job applications require one.  

TEFL Certificate

If you are applying to public schools, you might need to have one.

TOPIK Score

You can take a TOPIK language proficiency test, which evaluates communication skills for non-native Korean speakers. This isn’t always necessary, but it’s a good motivator to learn the language.

Korean language ability

This varies based on the position you’re after. For English teaching jobs, you don’t need to speak a word of Korean. But, these jobs are easy to get for a reason and are very hit or miss. 

I could barely read and say hello when I first arrived in Korea. As you can imagine, it was a challenging few months and I got serious about learning quickly. The more you know before you go, the easier it will be.

It may be hard to get motivated in your home country so try joining a language study group, enjoying Korean media or using Pimsleur here.

Korean CV

Koreans have their own way of doing things. This is especially evident in the way they format their resumes. Here’s an example:

입사지원서
Resume

기본사항
Basic Info

학력사항
Education

경력사항
Career

기능사항
Other Skills

Korean Cover letter

Cover letters are also a bit different in Korea. They’re known as “self-introductions (자기소개서 | 자소서 in short)” and focus on where you’re from, your parents, and their occupations.

I’ve spent many hours converting cover letters into self-introductions and vice versa for expats and Koreans. They’re gradually falling out of favor, but still be prepared to write one.

Some Koreans even call them “자소설”, which means self-fiction, not self-introductions.

자기소개서
Self-introduction

성장과정
Growth Process / Family Background

성격 및 장단점
Personality & Strengths and Weaknesses

지원동기
Reason for Application / Motive

입사 후 포부
Aspirations after Joining the Company / Long-term Goal

Job application process in Korea

Getting a job in Korea can be a bit more standardized than in other countries.  

Most job posts you encounter will look something like this: 

1. 지원 자격
2. 모집인원 : 0명
3. 전형 방법 : 서류전형 – 인적성 검사 – 면접 전형 – 신체검사
4. 지원서 접수
   가. 접수기간 : 00 ~ 00
   나. 접수방법 : 온라인 지원서 작성

1. Qualifications
2. Positions Available: 0 indicates less than 10 positions
3. Recruitment Process: Document Screening – Aptitude Test – Interview – Physical Examination
4. Resume Submission
   a. Submission Period:
   b. Submission Method: Online

As you can see, there are a few notable differences. Aptitude tests and physical examinations aren’t always a given outside of Korea. 

Aptitude test

Koreans love their tests, and you can expect to take one if you want a job. These tests vary by company, and usually consist of a math and personality test. Samsung usually sets the trend of which ones are administered. They take these tests seriously, and they can determine the department where you’ll be working, especially if you just graduated university.   If you want to increase your chances, there are even books you can practice with.

Interviews

Getting a job in Korea can be very competitive, so there are often multiple rounds of interviews. 

1st round

This will usually be a group affair. The format can vary from each person being asked the same or different questions to a group project. Make sure to be humble and modest while still being confident. This includes bowing to the interviewers when you enter the room. 

Korean office environments value loyalty and team players as much as individual ability. 

Never interrupt someone who’s speaking as this will be viewed as aggressive and undesirable. 

Be sure to show that you’re interested in the company, even when you’re not.  

As with every interview environment around the world, assume you’re being watched as soon as you enter the building. This means treating everyone from the front desk receptionist to cleaning staff with respect and deference.  

Also, make sure to relax. There’s a special category of supplements Korean take to lower anxiety called, 우황청심환.

2nd round

If you made it this far, your chances are pretty good. The interview will most likely be attended by one or two senior managers in addition to HR personnel. You’ll be more familiar with this format of interview as they ask you standard questions. One thing to note is you’ll most likely be asked to give your self-introduction, which by now should be second nature to you. 

3rd round

For larger companies or more important positions, you might have to come back for a third interview. This is often with high-level management or even the CEO. It’s most likely a formality and a chance for them to get to know who they’re hiring. You can expect similar questions along with some interesting personal ones as well. 

Physical

One needs a lot of fortitude to survive in a Korean office environment. The physical is designed to determine if you have what it takes. Most of the time, they check things like blood pressure and general health.

What are the requirements for a corporate job in South Korea?

Yeouido Financial District, Seoul, South Korea

There are ways to work in other fields besides those mentioned above. This really depends on your field of expertise and employer.

You generally need to satisfy of the following requirements to get a work Visa sponsored by a company in South Korea:

1. A Master’s Degree relevant to the job you’re applying to
2. A Bachelor’s Degree and 1+ years of experience relevant to the job you’re applying to
3. 5+ years of experience relevant to the job you’re applying to

It helps if you have experience in a high-demand field like IT.

Where do Koreans find jobs?

Yeouido at night in Seoul, South Korea

JOBKOREA 

The top employment website in Korea.

It has been ranked 1st in number of visitors for 10 consecutive years.

Since its foundation in 1996, it provides employment information, including full-time, part-time jobs and headhunters.

Saramin 

A fast-growing website.

It contains employment information, including open recruitment at the top 1,000 corporations, SMEs, SOEs, etc.

It’s the largest platform for open recruitment in Korea.

With a well-organized interface, information can be viewed by job type, industry and region.

WORKNET 

A website operated by the Ministry of Employment and Labor, and Korea Employment Information Service.

So, you know the info is reliable.

It offers customized employment information for young adults, women and middle-aged people.

You can also apply for unemployment benefits on this website.

Incruit 

Founded in 1996, it has recorded 2 million visitors, and operates a platform in Korea and overseas.

Incruit provides education on how to write resumes and prepare for an interview.

Since news is exchanged quickly here, you can find the latest information.

Wanted is another up-and-coming site where Koreans can find jobs.

Peoplenjob is a simple site with a variety of job opportunities.

FAQ

How much is the average salary in Korea for expats?

Data on average salaries for non-Koreans are hard to come by. Salaries for office workers depend on skill level and negotiation.

The average English teacher salary at a private institute is 2 million KRW ($1,800) a month plus housing and insurance.

How much is the average salary in Korea?

As of 2020, the minimum wage is 8,590KRW per hour.

According to Statistics Korea, the average monthly income of wage workers in 2018 was 2.97 million KRW, and the median income was 2.2 million KRW.

The average monthly income by organization type was 3.26 million KRW for corporations, 3.28 million KRW for non-business corporations, 3. 30 million KRW for government and non-corporate organizations, and 1.67 million KRW for individual companies.

The average monthly income of large corporations was 5.01 million KRW, that of SMEs was 2.31 million KRW, and for non-profit enterprises, it was 3.27 million KRW.

How many expats work and study in Korea?

2.07 million foreigners live in Korea and around 1.4 million have registered jobs.

In 2019, there were 60,700 foreign students enrolled in undergraduate programs. 

45,000 non-Koreans were enrolled in language programs. 

There are an estimated 24,000 English teachers. Many foreigners are also employed as office and factory workers, although accurate numbers are hard to come by.

What are the entry rules for E type visas in Korea

?

Single-entry, double-entry and multiple-entry visas are available for expats on an E Visa in South Korea. You need to tell the consulate or embassy, or your employer which one you prefer.

What are some non-teaching jobs in Korea for foreigners?

The number of non-teaching opportunities is increasing in Korea. You can work in any field besides medicine or law, which requires Korean qualifications. Here are jobs I’ve personally done or seen other expats doing:

• Translator
• Model 
• Actor
• Server  
• Bartender 
• Journalist
• Musician
• Writer 
• Salesperson
• Contractor
• Programmer
• Startup founder

Another avenue is internship programs. Korean companies hire interns year-round, but be prepared to work long hours.

You can also join the Army, and request to be stationed in Korea, but there’s no guarantee.

How easy is it for foreigners to get non-teaching jobs in Korea?

It can be relatively easy since there are non-teaching jobs advertised online. The catch is that many are entry-level positions in sales or hospitality, which can be quite stressful. The best way to get better non-teaching jobs is to learn the language at a conversational level (you don’t need to be fluent) and network in the country.

Did we miss anything?

Working in Korea can be a life-changing experience.

It’s not for everyone, but you won’t know until you try.

Let us know your experience in the comments!

Disclosure: There are affiliate links in this article that provide us a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only endorse the best language learning tools we use ourselves. Find out more about our code of ethics.

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1 day ago 1. USIM card prepaid and deferred marketing Job in Incheon – South Korea Customer Service/Help Desk, Marketing/PR ★ Company: MATE Mobile – ★ Job description: USIM card prepaid and deferred marketing – ★ Location: Incheon Line 2 Seokbawi Market Station… Skills Needed: – I need a foreigner living in Korea. (★Incheon★) – We like a comfortable atmosphere like a family. – We need someone responsible and passionate for work. – If you see this and think about it, please feel free to contact me.

3 days ago 2. Native German Teacher – online (Online/Remote) – Candidates ideally in Busan – South Korea Education, Teaching * HOME – BASED German TEACHERS WANTED * – HiTutor is a well – known and reputable online language institution based in the Philippines. We… Skills Needed: 【Job Qualifications】 – must possess at least a Bachelor’s/College Degree – 6 months teaching experience or above – Fluent in English or Chinese with neutral accent – Comfortable with technology – has stable WiFi or cable internet connection

4 days ago 3. ESL/EFL Teacher Gyeonggi Job in Seoul – South Korea Education Position: South Korea – Hot ESL/EFL teaching positions in Seoul, Gyeonggi, Busan, etc!! – Greetings! – My name is Jan Kim, a recruiting… Skills Needed: …

5 days ago 4. Part-time Online Native English Tutor (Online/Remote) – Candidates ideally in Seoul – South Korea ESL/TEFL, Education HiTutor is the biggest online language institution based in the Philippines. We offer language tutoring for more than 17 languages… Skills Needed: Job Qualifications: – English Native Speakers (US/UK/CA/AUS/NZ/SA) are qualified – Bachelor’s degree or higher – Six months teaching experience or above is preferred – Fluent in English – Teaching license/certificate preferred – Comfortable with technology and has a stable Internet connection How To Apply: Please fill out Hi!Tutor’s online application form first:

5 days ago 5. Part-time Online Native English Tutor (Online/Remote) – Candidates ideally in Seoul – South Korea ESL/TEFL, Teaching HiTutor is the biggest online language institution based in the Philippines. We offer language tutoring for more than 17 languages… Skills Needed: Job Qualifications: – English Native Speakers (US/UK/CA/AUS/NZ/SA) are qualified – Bachelor’s degree or higher – Six months teaching experience or above is preferred – Fluent in English – Teaching license/certificate preferred – Comfortable with technology and has a stable Internet connection How To Apply: Please fill out Hi!Tutor’s online application form first:

6 days ago 6. Part Time Native German Teacher – online (Online/Remote) – Candidates ideally in Daegu – South Korea Education, Teaching * HOME – BASED German TEACHERS WANTED * – HiTutor is a well – known and reputable online language institution based in the Philippines. We…

1 week ago 7. Online English Teacher (Online/Remote) – Candidates ideally in Seoul – South Korea ESL/TEFL, Online/Remote Position: ONLINE ENGLISH TEACHER FOR KOREANS – MINDsEdu is looking for Online English Teachers. – Shift: 6:00 – 9:00 AM Korea time | 18:00… Skills Needed: BPO Customer Service Education

2 weeks ago 8. English, Tefl, Esl, Celta Teachers Job in Seoul – South Korea Education, ESL/TEFL Position: English, TEFL, ESL, CELTA Teachers – Position: Active English/TEFL/ESL Teachers – We are starting to look for caring and…

2 weeks ago 9. Customer Success Manager (Online/Remote) – Candidates ideally in Seoul – South Korea IT/Tech THE OPPORTUNITY – Aqua Security is looking to hire a Customer Success Manager to support enterprise and strategic accounts throughout the… Skills Needed: YOUR SKILLS • 5 years of experience in a similar role with a software company • Able to converse in English   • Excellent verbal and written communication skills • Passionate about customer success; seeks to achieve extraordinary results through tenacious and creative problem solving • Must have background in a similar role supporting enterprise clients, directly and indirectly • DevOps, security, and Linux background required • Previous experience with CSM tools is desired • Possess customer-facing and communication skills that enable you to best represent Aqua Security within a customer’s environment • Ability to work in a dynamic team-oriented environment and tackle customer challenges/requirements • Thrives in a fast based, dynamic, team-oriented atmosphere and is adaptable in nature • Successful track record of multi-tasking and being a cross-functional team player • Attention to detail and quality of work • Good problem solving, time management, organization and analytical skills • Ability to travel domestically up to 20%, and occasionally internationally

2 weeks ago 10. Teaching ESL/EFL teachers Gyeonggi Job in Seoul – South Korea Education Position: South Korea – Teaching jobs for ESL/EFL teachers in Seoul, Gyeonggi, Busan, etc!! – Greetings! – My name is Jan Kim, a… Skills Needed: …

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How To Find a Job in South Korea as a Foreigner

Royal Guard Changing Ceremony at Royal Palace (Deoksugung), Seoul, South Korea

South Korea is a country located in Asia. The official language is Korean.

Below is a selection of resources for searching for employment opportunities as a foreigner.

General Job Search Engines and Classifieds

With the sites below, you can expect to get a 0.5 to 1.0% response rate (people who will respond back to you to whom you sent your application/CV. ) Nevertheless, I encourage you to give these sites a try as you never know what you will come up with or what connections you can make from a simple e-mail or application.

• Glassdoor: Glassdoor has a bunch of opportunities in Seoul.
• Indeed: The Korean version of the big U.S. job search site Indeed.com.
• Career Jet: I’m sure you’ve heard of Career Jet. They have job search options for Korea.
• Craigslist: Craigslist has a lot of work opportunities, especially in and around Seoul.
• Learn 4 Good: Learn 4 Good tends to lean more towards teaching opportunities, but I’ve seen jobs in other sectors as well.

Teaching English

Teaching English will be your easiest option. I have quite a few friends who have taught English in South Korea.

All of the sites below are pretty similar and have a massive amount of teaching English job options.  Browse through each of the sites for teaching English job opportunities in South Korea.

• ESL Employment: Not the most beautiful interface, but who needs a pretty website when you have so many English teaching job options to choose from.
• Total ESL: Also an overly busy interface but a wealth of job postings for teaching jobs abroad.
• ESL Cafe: Dave does a great job in compiling some of the best job openings from around the world.
• Tesall: Big teaching jobs aggregator.
• Reach To Recruiting: I know the owner of this site. She runs a great operation.

Other Websites and Blogs

• KoreanClass101: KoreanClass101 has a thorough article here on “How to Find Jobs in South Korea.”
• ESL Expat: Definitely check out ESL Expat’s article, “The Best Job Sites for Teaching English in Korea.”
• GoOverseas: Paige wrote a good article about getting teaching jobs in South Korea.
• Transitions Abroad: Transitions Abroad has a really comprehensive list for anyone considering becoming an expatriate in South Korea.

Overseas and Expat Job Portals

• Go Abroad: I’ve always been a fan of GoAbroad. In fact, on the visa information portion of my website, you will find where I have linked to their global embassies directory. They have a good job portal too.
• Linkedin: Last but not least, this huge professional social network is a resource for building contacts in the field and location of your interest.

There you have it. The best places to find jobs in South Korea as a foreigner. For information on visas for South Korea, be sure to check out my South Korea visa page. If you are looking to spice up your dating life, check out my post on the best online dating sites in the South Korea.

Further Reading

• How to Answer the 150 Most Common Job Interview Questions: Get sample answers to the most frequently asked job interview questions.

• Worldwide Jobs Guide: Be sure to check out my posts on how to find jobs in any country in the world.

• Worldwide Apartments Guide: If you are interested in renting an apartment in this country, take a look at my articles on how to find an apartment in various countries around the world.

• Worldwide Dating Guide: Also, check out my posts on the best online dating sites in 60+ countries around the world.

About Addison Sears-Collins

Hey! I’m Addison Sears-Collins, the founder of Visa Hunter. You can learn more about me here. Connect with me by liking my fan page on Facebook, connecting with me on Twitter, or check out my website Automatic Addison where I build robots and embedded systems.

Visahunter.com accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever with regard to the accuracy of the information contained on this site. Please read the Visitor Agreement and Disclaimer. If you think there is an error in the information, please bring it to our attention so that we can correct it. Also, some of the links above could be affiliate links, which means that I will earn a commission (at no additional cost to you) should you decide to click on the links and make a purchase. I recommend sites from time to time, not because I get a tiny commission if you click on the links and make a purchase, but because, I want you to focus on the places that will deliver you the most value and the best results. Good luck!

Jobs in Seoul for Russians and Kazakhs in 2022

Seoul is the largest cultural, financial, scientific, political center and capital of South Korea, located on the Han River in the northwestern part of the state near Yellow Sea . It is considered the most promising city in the country in terms of earnings, including for labor migrants from different parts of the world. For example, work in Seoul for Russians or Kazakhs in 2022 is in unprecedented demand, but not available to every job seeker.

With a backdrop of many beautiful historical monuments, including palaces and old one-story wooden houses, cutting-edge shopping malls and skyscrapers are being built in Seoul. The economy of the South Korean capital generates more than 20% of the country’s gross domestic product and continues to develop rapidly. According to many experts, Seoul is one of the 10 richest cities in the world. Next, we will consider the specifics of labor migration, job search options, current vacancies and salaries in Seoul in 2022.

CONTENT

1. Labor migration to Seoul
2. How to find a job in Seoul
3. Jobs and salary in Seoul

Labor migration to Seoul

According to various sources, the population of Seoul in 2022 is about 10.6-10.9 million people . It is the largest city in South Korea with over two thousand years of history. The vast majority of local residents are Koreans, and the foreign population is represented mainly by Chinese. In addition, there are many citizens of the United States and Taiwan in Seoul, and in general, 9 people live in the capital of South Korea.0003 more than 360 thousand foreigners .

Employment in Seoul will not only significantly improve your financial situation, but will also give you a chance to get acquainted with the peculiarities of Asian culture in your free time, relax in well-groomed parks, enjoy local sights and cuisine. The city has an ideal infrastructure, a comfortable climate and a minimum level of crime.

The Seoul authorities are very positive about migrant workers from abroad, who are able to provide additional growth to an already strong economy. In different districts of the city there are “Support Centers for Foreigners”, where local specialists, including in Russian, provide advice on housing, employment and adaptation.

Following the example of most developed countries of the world, including the member states of the European Union, official work in Seoul requires a foreigner to fulfill a number of preconditions. First of all, you need to find in advance a Korean employer , draw up a labor contract and open a work visa . South Korean legislation provides for an impressive number of visas for labor migrants.

The most popular visa that allows you to work in Seoul for a short time – to 90 days , called C-4. Depending on the profession and the duration of the contract for long-term employment in South Korea, foreigners are issued work visas category E (3,4,5,7). More detailed and official information is provided exclusively by employees of the South Korean Consulate in the immigrant’s country.

How to find a job in Seoul

Jobs in Seoul for Russians, Kazakhs, Ukrainians and other foreigners from the CIS countries are highly competitive. Labor migrants from all over the world are sent to the capital of South Korea, including from the regions of Asia, Europe and North America. Qualifications, experience and professional skills of the applicant must be in demand in the local labor market.

Seoul is the most important business center of South Korea, where the world’s multinational companies operate and the headquarters of major South Korean corporations, including, Kia, Hyundai, Samsung, LG Electronics, Jinro. Such employers very often need qualified specialists from abroad and offer very reasonable conditions for employment.

One of the main requirements when looking for a job in Seoul is language skills . It is ideal to have the basics of Korean, but in many positions, especially in large companies, advanced English is enough. Working in Seoul without knowledge of the language is practically inaccessible. Write a well-written resume and cover letter. Write job offers to employers directly.

Seoul Job Search

Seoul National Employment Center – work.go.kr

Major Employers in Seoul – glassdoor. com

Professional Social Network – LinkedIn.com

Famous newspaper in South Korea (Seoul) – The Korea Times

Popular Search Schools in Seoul

Korea.xpatjobs.com

Seoulprofessionals.com

000 PEOPLEGOLD.COM

000 PEOPLEPLED.COM

000 PEOPLEND you won’t be able to find a job in Seoul without intermediaries, try contacting a reputable recruitment agency , preferably international or South Korean. Visit the city as a tourist and use this time to make business contacts. Be active on the Internet. Go to thematic forums and groups in social networks. Collect and analyze information about jobs in Seoul from various sources.

Jobs and salary in Seoul

Seoul has a very high-tech manufacturing industry, and the largest industries where jobs are concentrated are information technology, electronics, finance, tourism, retail, agriculture, food and beverage production. In many of these areas, there are vacancies in Seoul for Russians, Kazakhs, Ukrainians, Belarusians and other job seekers from abroad in 2022.

A large number of migrant workers work in the South Korean capital in the service, automotive and chemical industries. Perfect knowledge of English will help you find a job as a teacher or tutor. Jobs in Seoul for girls are available in the field of modeling. Sometimes hostesses and dancers are required. Men can get jobs on construction sites.

Unemployment in Seoul and the country as a whole does not exceed 4% . About half of the total population of South Korea lives in the capital and nearby cities. Fortunately, ample opportunities for employment and high income are available not only to local residents, but also to foreigners. Officially, Koreans earn a minimum of 90,003 9,160 won per hour 90,004 (about 7 euros), and the average salary in Seoul in 2022 is about 90,003 2,000–2,500 euros 90,004 per month.

The author (expert) of the material is Ksenia R.

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Jobs in South Korea for Russians, Kazakhs and Ukrainians in 2022

South Korea is one of the world leaders in the field of information technology, production of cars, mobile phones and other high-tech products. Work in South Korea for Russians, Ukrainians, Kazakhs and other citizens of the post-Soviet space in 2022 is available, first of all, for qualified technical specialists and holders of professions that are in short supply for the Korean economy.

South Korea is located in East Asia, washed by Yellow , Japanese and East China Seas , has a comfortable climate. The main political, cultural and economic center of the country is the capital Seoul. It is in this large Korean city that the majority of labor migrants rush. The main language used in South Korea is Korean, but English is also widely spoken, especially in large multinational companies.

The population of South Korea in 2022 is about 51.3 million people , unemployment does not exceed 3-5% . The main part of the population is employed in the service sector – 70%, followed by industry, about 24%, and agriculture accounts for up to 6% of the workforce. Labor immigration to the Republic of Korea is not only a way to earn money, but also an opportunity to get in touch with Asian culture, and, perhaps, a chance to stay in this country forever. Next, we will learn about how to go to work in South Korea, as well as what vacancies and salaries a foreigner can expect in 2022.

CONTENTS

1. Employment in South Korea
2. How to find a job in South Korea. Vacancies without intermediaries.
3. Salary and jobs in South Korea

Employment in South Korea

In order to go to South Korea to work, you need to obtain a work visa . Typically, the document is tied to a specific vacancy and in the event of a change of employer or workplace, you will need to apply for a visa again. The application for a work visa is submitted by the applicant at Korean Consulate in your country in person, but only after concluding an employment contract with the employer. This is the main difficulty of a foreign worker.

A company in South Korea that is going to hire a foreign specialist must obtain a special certificate confirming the legality of the foreigner’s employment. Not all employers are eager to spend time going through this procedure. It should be noted right away that illegal work in South Korea threatens with large fines and deportation from the country, followed by a ban on entry.

Documents for a work visa to South Korea

1. Application and correctly completed visa application form.

2. Foreign passport.

3. One color photograph taken within the last 6 months.

4. Autobiography.

5. Detailed description of upcoming work activity.

6. Diplomas of education and other documents confirming qualifications.

7. Certificate confirming the presence of an employment contract that allows you to work in Korea.

8. Certificate of no criminal record.

9. Medical insurance.

The period for issuing a work visa to South Korea takes to one month . Initially, the document is issued on one year renewable, but only if the employer does not change. Depending on the profession of the applicant and the vacancy in the country, various visas are provided. In total, the immigration system of Korea has 36 types of visas, of which 9 are related to employment or business. Let’s denote the most common:

• D-7 . It is provided to employees of foreign companies investing in the Korean economy, as well as qualified specialists employed in branches or representative offices of foreign companies.

• C-4 . The visa is intended for short-term employment in South Korea for up to 3 months . It does not provide for special restrictions on types of activities.

• E-3, E-4, E-5, E-7 . Long-term types of visas, which are issued mainly to skilled foreign workers for employment in Korean companies. For example, lawyers, doctors, scientists, technicians and representatives of some other professions.

After arriving in the country in within 90 days , you must contact the local immigration office and obtain a residence permit. The process of moving to South Korea is quite complicated, so often foreign workers resort to the services of special intermediary agencies or labor migration consultants.

How to find a job in South Korea. Vacancies without intermediaries.

Work in South Korea, for example, for Russians or Kazakhstanis in 2022 is a painstaking search for a vacancy in the local labor market and self-confidence. First of all, you need language proficiency . It is ideal to have Korean skills, but English will be enough for many local employers. Working in South Korea without knowing the language is, as a rule, semi-legal work that will not bring the desired result.

Education, experience, skills and qualifications of a foreigner play the most important role, of course, if the goal is to find a decent job in South Korea, for example, in one of the large companies such as Exxon Mobil, Hyundai, Samsung, Smith & Nephew and many others. By the way, when looking for a job in Korea, we advise you to pay attention to well-known companies that often need foreign workers. Applicants with diplomas from prestigious universities in South Korea or European universities, for example, British or French, have indisputable competitive advantages.

Let’s go directly to the job search in South Korea in 2022. This will require the Internet and patience. If there is an opportunity to visit the country as a tourist, this is only a plus. In Korea, there are enough Russian-speaking citizens, with personal contact with whom you can get information about the situation on the local labor market. Also, to search for labor migrants and make connections, use the professional social network – linkedin.com.

Visit the website of South Korea’s National Employment Center – work.go.kr.

Popular South Korean Job Search Sites

jobkorea.co.kr

saramin.co.kr

global.seoul.go.kr

South Korea International Job Resources

careerjet. co.kr kr.indeed.com

learn4good.com

South Korean newspapers

Korea Herald

The Korea Times

Salaries and vacancies in South Korea

South Korea has a very strong economy, and this is due not only to the development and introduction of modern technologies in the industrial sector, but also the service sector is not far behind. In addition, a large number of international companies are concentrated in the country, in which foreigners are employed.

The average salary in South Korea in 2022 is about 4,087.4 thousand Korean won per month (3.3 thousand dollars). Official minimum wage for a Korean worker in 2022 9160 won per hour ( $7.5 ).

Jobs in South Korea for Russians in 2022 are available in the automotive industry, IT, shipbuilding, electronics, mobile communications, finance and some other industries.

Salaries here from 2.5-3.5 thousand dollars per month and above. There are jobs in South Korea for people with unskilled professions, for example, for attractive girls, there are vacancies for models and dancers, hostesses are very popular in Korea.

Translators, English teachers, construction workers, farm or seafood workers are often needed. Remuneration in these areas is quite diverse, from 600-700 dollars per month . Much depends on the region, in Seoul you can earn much more than in other Korean cities, but the competition here is much higher.

Jobs in South Korea for foreigners

Jobs in South Korea, of course, there are, but can a foreigner get a well-paid job? What is the likelihood of getting a job for specialists with minimal knowledge of the Korean language? First of all, you should ask how much the skills that you own are in demand in Korea. It can take a very long time to look for work in specialties that simply do not exist in this country. For example, oil workers, cosmonauts and polar explorers simply have nothing to do there.

Jobs for Russians

Of course, there are jobs for Russians in South Korea, but you shouldn’t count on getting a job as an announcer on radio, television or in the Korean National Ensemble.

The main scourge of all foreigners is the lack of knowledge of the Korean language, even at an elementary household level. Russians are no exception. Koreans are not eager to delve into the language of foreigners.

A well-paid job in South Korea is practically impossible without knowledge of the Korean language at a sufficiently high level. If you need to actively communicate with Koreans in the process of work, you will have many problems.
Without knowledge of the language you will not be able to work:

• as a doctor;
• seller;
• plumber;
• journalist, etc.

In very rare cases, an excellent knowledge of your native (non-Korean) language can be an advantage. You may be invited to teach a foreign language as a native speaker.

Restrictions for foreigners

Work in South Korea for foreign specialists and workers of many specialties is subject to a number of restrictions.

These include:

1. The maximum stay in the country should not exceed five years.
2. It is not possible to obtain permanent resident status (permanent residence).
3. Impossible to get a job in government institutions or hold positions.
4. Foreigners cannot serve in the armed forces of South Korea.
5. Lack of Korean education will make it difficult for lawyers and teachers to find work. The exception is graduates of well-known educational institutions such as Oxford – they are valued more than specialists with a Korean education.
6. Foreigners have little knowledge of the Korean trade market and are of little use in areas such as advertising, middle management, marketing or finance.

Points to consider

Jobs in South Korea are provided to foreigners, taking into account some features that are better to know in advance.

Ask:

1. Is there a profession you have in South Korea?
2. Job descriptions should not contain restrictions on your race or appearance.
3. Is knowledge of Korean required at a certain level?
4. Is Korean citizenship required?
5. Korean education required or not?
6. Is knowledge of Korean specifics required for doing business in a certain area?

Jobs that can be expected without knowledge of the Korean language

Upon closer examination, it turns out that for foreigners without knowledge of the language, the ideal job options that they can actually expect are:

• any working specialty that does not require active interaction with other workers;
• highly specialized paraprofessionals and engineers;
• specialists representing the interests of South Korea in other countries;
• models;
• non-talk actors;
• representatives of foreign states in South Korea;
• sailors.

This is a list of the top job opportunities for foreigners in South Korea.

References about work in South Korea

Even if your specialty can potentially be in high demand in Korea, you should not forget about the local specifics.

A foreigner is more expensive for a Korean employer and there are more problems with him. It is necessary: ​​

• to make mutual efforts to establish mutual understanding;
• go through the official registration process (or take a permanent risk if you work illegally).

Why is it attractive or dangerous to work in South Korea? Reviews of foreigners who have worked for some time in this country allow us to analyze the advantages and disadvantages. Everyone celebrates immersion in the unique flavor of the original Korean culture. For thrill-seekers, this is an undeniable advantage, but the Korean in most cases will receive more than you for similar work. The working day can last up to 15 hours. One day off a week is possible, and sometimes you have to work 6 hours on a prearranged day off. Cases of fraud with payment or payment of amounts less than agreed are also not uncommon.

Where and how to work, everyone chooses independently. It is advisable to collect and analyze as much information as possible before making a decision to go to work in another country. Official employment is much safer than illegal stay in any country.

How to get a job in South Korea

In October 2016, I quit my job and decided to fulfill my childhood dream of visiting South Korea and making money at the same time.

Alexandra

went to live and work in South Korea

Now I work at one of the car factories and help Russians with employment. I will tell you how to find a job in South Korea and not become a victim of scammers.

Relocation and visa

Since 2014, the visa regime has been canceled between Russia and South Korea. Citizens of both states have the right to stay in the territory of the countries for no more than two months.

Russians often come to South Korea as tourists and then get a job. This is illegal: a visa is required for legal employment. There are several types of such visas.

110 950 Р

average salary in South Korea. In Russia, the average salary is almost three times lower.

D, E, H – these visas are issued to foreigners who plan to work in the country or come for business purposes for more than two months. The same visas are issued by students and graduate students entering local universities.

F-1 – family visa, it is issued to foreigners who have married Korean citizens.

F-2 – for long stays.

F-3 – accompanying a relative.

F-4 – issued to ethnic Koreans.

E-1, E-3, E-5 – issued for scientific research.

Undocumented migrants are often tricky. For example, they get a study visa, pay for the first months of study, and then get a job themselves. Recently, this loophole was closed by canceling the monthly tuition fee at the university – now you have to deposit money for the entire semester at once.

/study-in-korea/

How to go to study in South Korea

Some immigrants make fake marriages with ethnic Koreans, get a family visa F-1 and get a job. By law, you can work with such a visa not everywhere, but employers often turn a blind eye to such things.

Recently, another method of legalization in the country is gaining popularity among Russians: immigrants apply for political asylum and receive a visa G-1 . While the application is being considered, you can legally stay in Korea. Even if it is rejected, nothing prevents you from filing an appeal and again waiting for a decision for several months while continuing to work.

I am an ethnic Korean, so I easily got a visa F-4 , with which you can live in the country indefinitely and get a job without any problems.

How to work

It is easiest for a foreigner to get a job where no qualifications are required. At the same time, the salary will still be two to three times higher than in Russia.

It’s just that they pay more there

Our compatriots go to the country for high salaries: the average salary in Russia (according to Rosstat for January 2018) is 38,400 RUR, in South Korea — 2,000,000 won (110,950 RUR).

Information on the socio-economic situation in Russia, RosstatPDF, 1.2 MB

The average salary in South Korea

, while still providing a free room for accommodation and meals.

Waiter salary 1.3-1.7 million won (72,115-94,305 R) per month,
agricultural worker – from 60,000 won (3330 R) per day,
worker at the plant – 1.3-3.5 million won (72,115-194,160 R) per month,
fisherman – from 80,000 won (4440 R) per day.

4440 Р

a fisherman in South Korea earns in a day

I work at one of the Hyundai car factories in Ulsan, which is about a three and a half hour drive from Seoul.

The city of Ulsan in South Korea looks like this. Photo: v15ben, Flickr

In total, the enterprise has about 50 Russian-speaking employees – all visitors from Russia and the CIS countries. Hyundai factories are scattered all over the country. Each enterprise produces some separate part: rubber door seals are made on one, plastic pistons on the other, seat covers on the third. Then, in a separate production, all this is assembled together.

In large enterprises, male and female labor is clearly separated. For example, women check parts for defects and correct defects, while men work on machines: press parts, control robot welding.

Women’s work – checking the quality of rubber pistons Men’s work – making aluminum holders on a machine

How to find a job in South Korea

There are many ways, I will tell you about the most popular.

In social networks, on Vkontakte or Facebook, many vacancies are published – you can start looking for a job even in Russia. True, it will be possible to find out what kind of work awaits you in reality only on the spot.

“Anonymous Korea” group on Vkontakte

“Veguk bulletin board” group on Facebook

There are sites on the Internet where you can ask questions to people who are already working in Korea and ask them to help you find a job. Russians actively help each other, often for free. This enthusiasm must be exploited. For example, even if you have found a suitable vacancy, it is problematic to get a job yourself without knowing the language. We’ll have to look for a translator. It is better if you already have acquaintances in South Korea.

It is worth looking for a job through an intermediary if you have neither knowledge of the language nor acquaintances. Services cost from $150. Such people often have their own job databases.

150 $

there is an intermediary service in finding a job

For an additional fee, you will be met at the airport, assisted with paperwork and opening a bank account, rented accommodation, and so on. Throughout the entire period of work, you will have a personal life consultant in South Korea who will solve the problem with insurance, pension contributions, salary delays, and more. If the job you are applying for turns out to be difficult, the intermediary will select another vacancy.

That’s how I got my first job, no problems. The only thing I would advise is not to give money in advance, but to pay for services after getting a job.

Fraudsters

Among the intermediaries there are also swindlers who negotiate in advance with dishonest business owners. The intermediary publishes advertisements, offering jobs even to those who do not have a visa.

When a whole group of foreigners is recruited, they are arranged for “their” enterprise. Then salary delays begin, but the intermediary reassures that this happens and you still have to wait.

When the workers’ patience is running out and they can’t wait any longer, they are told the address where they need to go for money. But the migration service squad is already on duty. As a result, foreigners are deported.

/fakejob/

Fake employers

Recently, there are more and more such cases. In social networks, victims of scammers post detailed information about such intermediaries, photos, videos, links to vacancies, and phone numbers. Therefore, if you decide to use someone’s services, then you should read the communities on social networks so as not to run into a scammer.

Job centers are suitable for foreigners who know the language at least at a basic level. Some of these centers (in Korean – “samushil”) help with work even visitors who do not have a visa and a registration card.

They don’t offer a permanent job, every day you have to work in a new place. The earlier in the morning you get in line at the “self-made”, the higher the probability of getting a job. Given that the centers open at 6 am, you will have to get up early. There can be several job centers in one city.

You can find the nearest one through the special mobile application “Cocoa Map”.

Download the app and enable geolocation on your phone In the search bar, type “인력” or “소개소”. Click the Map button in the upper left corner The nearest job centers to you are marked in blue

Work can be very different – from packing fruits and cleaning apartments to construction. Salaries are issued daily: men receive from 80,000 won (4440 R), women – from 55,000 won (3050 R). A 10% commission is taken by the “self-made”.

If an employer likes you, you may be offered a permanent position.

from 3050 R

you can earn in a day through the employment center

I used the services of the centers twice, and my impressions are mixed. On the one hand, the work was easy. For example, I packed medical face masks: masks arrive on the conveyor, you need to count 10 pieces, then assemble the box and put the masks into it. On the other hand, there is no stability when arranging through “self-help”: today you were not hired and you were left without money.

When you arrive at a new place of work, pay attention to the people of what nationalities work there. This says a lot about the employer. According to my observations, the Chinese choose easy work, regardless of the level of wages. If only Filipinos work, I decided for myself that the work is harmful or dirty. If there is not a single Russian, I always double-checked the employer – most likely, the work will be hard or low-paid.

Even in South Korea there is a rule: do not stand still. Having finished work earlier, you cannot rest unless a break is announced. It is necessary to occupy yourself with something, for example, to clean the workplace. The main thing is not to stand, but to create the appearance of violent activity.

Interview

Before applying for a permanent position, you will have to pass an interview. The main attention will be paid to your external data, and education, for example, does not play any role. Knowledge of the language would be an advantage, but not required.

They can refuse even because of excess weight. If the choice is between a candidate of sciences and a handsome man with no education, they will choose the second one. That is why plastic surgery is so popular in South Korea. And in the standard application form when applying for a job there is even a column where you need to indicate your weight. There are also age restrictions – it will not be easy for people over 45 to find a job.

At the same time, it is not necessary to come to the interview too presentable: it is better for a woman to get by with a minimum of makeup and not to wear high-heeled shoes. Koreans believe that a person who is too well-groomed is not suitable for physical work. Once I witnessed how two girls from Russia came to an interview – both in denim shorts, T-shirts with bare shoulders and slates. They were not hired and told not to come back.

Knowing the language is good, but it is much more important to learn the local etiquette and traditions. One of my acquaintances was fired because he called the boss with his palm turned up. This is how dogs are called in Korea. People wave only with the palm down.

/seoul/

How people live in Seoul

Serious attention in South Korea is paid to joint meals – “hoeshik”. Colleagues gather after work to eat and drink something strong. If you are invited by a person older than you, and even more so if this is a boss, then you cannot refuse.

You need to remember about a variety of little things. For example, if a glass of alcohol is served, it must be taken with both hands. You also need to clink glasses while holding a drink in both hands. This is how you show your respect for the person. If you clink glasses with someone who is older in position, then you should keep your glass a little lower. Drinking alcohol should be turned away, and the more you drink, the more you will delight the Korean.

If all these numerous rules are not observed, then relations with colleagues and superiors will quickly deteriorate.

“Nunchi”

In South Korea, there is such a thing as “nunchi”. This word cannot be translated into Russian. In general terms, “nunchi” is the ability to perceive non-verbal signals when communicating with other people, understand the situation and respond to it. Nunchi is very important in Korea.

For example, if your boss is calling you, you need to speed up your pace. By this you show his authority and your respect. You cannot argue with your superiors, even if you are one hundred percent right. If you are being scolded, you can’t look into your eyes, you need to lower your head and listen in silence or agree with the words: “Yes. I got it”.

Salary and schedule

The amount of salary directly depends on the number of hours worked. The shift you worked in also affects: day or night.

The minimum hourly wage is 7,530 won (R414) by law. The working day starts at 8-9 am. After 17:30, “overtime” begins – each next hour of work is paid at one and a half times the minimum rate – that is, a minimum of 11,295 won (622 R) per hour. Night shifts are also paid at one and a half rates.

414 R

Employer is required to pay minimum per employee’s hourly rate

If you work on weekends or public holidays, the hourly rate will be double the minimum rate of 15,060 won (R829).

Most often, night and day shifts alternate: you work in day shifts for a week, and night shifts for a week. If you agree with the authorities, you can work only on the day or only on the night shift. In the second case, you will be able to earn much more. There are businesses that do not work at night.

Increase in wages

Since January 1, 2018, the cost of an hour of work in South Korea has increased by 16.4%. This is a record rate increase in the entire history of the country.

In 2017, the minimum rate was 6,470 won (R356) per hour, now it is 7,530 won (R414).

In January 2018, after switching to the new tariffs, I earned almost 3 million won (R165,000). After income tax and residence tax (87,208 won – 4,799 won), housing and utilities (153,400 won – 8,440 won), I have 2,759392 won (151,842 R).

How much I earned in January 2018

Tariff	Clock	Won	In rubles
Day	200	1,500,000	82 541
Overtime	67	756 765	41 643
Night	82.5	310 613	17092
Holidays and weekends	24	271 080	14 917
Premium	–	105 420	5801
Total	373. 5	2943878	161 994

Clock

200

In Vona

1 500 000

in rubles

82 541

Avertime

005

in Vona

756 765

in rubles

41 643

hours

82.5

In the stumps

310 613

24

in Vona

271 080

in rubles

14 917

Prize

in Vona

105 420

in rubles

9000 5801

005

373.5

Won

2,943,878

Ruble

161,994

In addition to hourly rates, there are also bonuses. For example, if you don’t miss a single day of work from Monday to Friday, you are paid an amount equal to the minimum wage for 8 hours – 60,240 won (R3315). If you worked for a month without passes, you get a bonus. Its size is set by the employer, but there is a minimum limit of 60,240 won (3315 R). In addition, the thirteenth salary is paid every year. It is equal to the sum for a month of work on a day shift without overtime and days off. This is about 1.5 million won (82,541 R).

161,994 Р

I earned in January 2018

The bonus systems differ from company to company. It all depends on the employer: somewhere there are all types of bonuses, and somewhere only a weekly, or monthly, or only the thirteenth salary.

In South Korea, there is an “out” system: if you get a job in the first half of the month, you will receive your salary for the first 15 days only on the 15th-17th. Then they will start paying as expected, every month.

The salary is transferred to a bank account. Anyone can open an account in South Korea. There are banks here that do not pay attention to client documents at all.

Meals and insurance

Lunch break at large enterprises usually starts at 12:00 and lasts from 30 minutes to an hour. They feed at the enterprise in the local canteen. The menu is always the same: boiled rice, soup, three or four types of salads, hot dishes.

Food in the factory canteen

If the working day exceeds 8 hours, the employer can also feed employees with dinner. I know that some enterprises even have an afternoon snack – they give milk with a bun.

In South Korea, medicine is very expensive, so I advise you to have insurance, despite the fact that not all employers require it. When you officially get a job, the insurance opens automatically. If you came to Korea with your family, then you have the right to include all close relatives in your insurance. The amount of insurance premiums depends on how much you receive and how much you pay for housing. If there is no official work, then insurance will cost 90,000 won (4952 R).

/turistmod/

How to choose insurance

What is it like to live here

In Korea, you can earn faster than in Russia. The work is physically harder: in most cases, the whole working day is spent on your feet. But I never regretted my decision to move.

There is always something to do in your spare time. I used to often go to Seoul on weekends for shopping and walking. Two days in the capital cost 320-530 thousand won (17,610-29,165 R). This amount includes accommodation, meals in restaurants, shopping, visiting a nightclub, slot machines.

from 17,610 R

I spend two days shopping in Seoul

Korea has a pleasant climate, although there is a lot of humidity. Autumn and winter are not as severe as in Russia. There is a sea and many beaches, a lot of attractions. In cities, ancient palaces coexist with mirrored skyscrapers. Everything is very bright – signs, colorful buses, taxis. In addition, the country is very safe – you can safely walk around the city at two in the morning.

In Seoul, you can just go for a walk. Photo: Dickson Phua, Flickr

In Korea, everything is done for the comfort of people. For example, at the entrance to a shopping center there will definitely be a device for wrapping a wet umbrella in cellophane so that it does not drip. In a restaurant, you can make an order and pay for it at the terminal at the entrance, and then just sit at the table and wait for everything to be brought. Moreover, they will bring more than they asked for: they paid for one soup, and on top they will give ten snacks for free: kimchi, radish kimchi, onions, bean paste, seaweed, peppers, lotus roots, pickled quail eggs and much more.

Koreans themselves are smiling and friendly people, they are friendly towards foreigners. Although in general, locals take a long time to get used to new people in their environment. For example, in a team, at first, a newcomer will be treated coldly, but then the ice will melt and you will become part of a large family.

How to find a job in Korea: a complete guide

So, you have finally arrived and are thinking about how to find a job in Korea. Whether you are here as a student or here as part of a work holiday, everyone can get extra money in their pocket. That being said, knowing exactly where to start or what kind of work you can find as a foreigner can be tricky.

Before you start your search, there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Know what jobs are allowed/prohibited for your type of visa.

Some visas, such as a student visa or a work holiday visa, have different restrictions. For example, you will need to obtain another visa or apply for permission to work in an entertainment business or as a language teacher. For more information, check this official website of the Korean Visa Portal.

2. Know how many hours you can work.

Once again, your visa determines how many hours you can work. As a rule, those who have a student or work tourist visa can work no more than 25 hours per week.

3. Know the minimum wage.

As of 2020, the minimum wage in Korea is 8,590 won. Especially when looking for jobs on Craigslist or Facebook that target expatriates, it’s important to know how much you should be paid to avoid being taken advantage of (definitely not a common occurrence, but better to be safe).

Contents

1. What kind of jobs do you expect to find in Korea?
   • Popular part-time jobs in Korea
2. How to find a job in Korea?
   • Craigslist
   • Facebook groups
   • Albacheongguk (알바 천국) or Albamon (알바몬)
3. What to prepare for when looking for a job in Korea?
   • Establishing a bank account
   • Jobs related to the food industry
4. Jobs for students

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What jobs do you expect to find in Korea?

In a global metropolis like Seoul, finding a job is not a problem. In fact, on most streets you will find an endless supply of shops, convenience stores, cafes and restaurants looking to hire new staff. That said, deciding which field to work in can largely depend on your ability to speak Korean. While it’s definitely not a requirement, knowing at least an intermediate level of Korean will greatly increase your chances of finding a job. Simply put, why should anyone hire a foreigner instead of a Korean?

However, don’t be afraid that I don’t speak Korean or basic. Although the chance of finding a job is less, it is definitely not small. For non-Korean speakers, I highly recommend narrowing down your search to areas that are heavily touristy. Examples include Itaewon (이태원), Hongdae (홍대), Myeongdong (명동), and Gangnam (강남). These areas are not only filled with tourists, but are also common residential areas for foreigners living in Seoul. It is in such areas that foreigners who are able to speak other languages ​​are specifically sought.

Popular part-time jobs in Korea

Here are some of the most popular and common part-time jobs you can find in Korea:

Restaurant waiter/waitress, bar or club host/waiter/bartender, barista or café job , convenience store staff, fast food staff, kitchen helper, cook, cleaner, clothing store staff, translator, etc.

All of these part-time jobs are eligible for any visa other than a tourist visa.

How to find a job in Korea?

Here are the best ways to find a part-time job in Korea.

First, for non-Korean speakers, I highly recommend using Craigslist or Facebook groups to find jobs.

Craigslist

Craigslist is a popular website used worldwide for basic advertisements. Whether it’s looking for a job, looking for a home, or selling furniture, this website has it all and is very easy to use. Finding a job on Craigslist is pretty easy. What’s more, most if not all of the job offers on Craigslist are geared towards foreigners residing in Korea. Each job may be different, but in general, you will need to submit your resume and contact information. Most places also frequently ask for your visa status, language skills, nationality, and sometimes a photo or your age, so it’s good to include this on your resume to save time. Here is the job site Craigslist Seoul.

I also want to mention that not all job offers on Craigslist are legal and safe, so it’s important to do some research beforehand.

Facebook groups

Job search in Facebook groups is another great option for those who use Facebook and don’t speak Korean. Just search for “Find a job in Korea” or “Job in Seoul” and join the group. Here you will find several posts offering different types of vacancies. In addition, people will include the requirements for the position, salary, hours, etc. in the message and email to apply. Here is the site for Facebook Jobs in Korea.

Finally, for those who understand Korean, I would recommend downloading the Albachonguk (알바 천국) or Albamon (알바몬) app. (There is also a desktop site). Both apps work in the same way and it can be a little tricky to navigate at first. If you can, ask a Korean friend to help.

Albacheongguk (알바 천국) or Albamon (알바몬)

Alba means “side job” in Korean. Both of these apps are the most popular job search apps in Korea. If you’ve used any other job application app, it’s very easy to use once you’ve set it up. Unlike my previous mentions, both of these apps are aimed at Koreans and therefore include a much larger selection of jobs.

To get started, you can create an account from scratch or through other platforms such as Kakao talk, Naver, Apple, Facebook or Google. You will then need to provide details of your location, the profession you want to practice and what days you can work. You will also need to create a profile including your CV, previous experience and preferably a photo.

What to prepare for when looking for a job in Korea?

Once you have applied for the position of your choice, you will receive a response shortly about setting up an interview. What’s more, this answer will likely tell you exactly what you need to prepare ahead of time.

This list may vary from job to job, but most often you will need:

1. Passport
2. ARC (Alien Registration Card)
3. Bank Account Number

Link to, you can check how to apply8 Registration 9086 Alien Card (ARC) and important things!