Lifestyle

When I first arrived in Korea to begin my teaching adventure, one of the biggest questions I had was: What time does school start in Korea?

I quickly learned that the answer depends on where you teach. Public schools and private academies, known as hagwons, have very different schedules. Public school teachers generally start their day in the morning, while hagwon teachers often work afternoon and evening shifts.

After teaching in both environments, I’ve experienced both sides firsthand. Here’s what you can expect from a typical school day in Korea, including Korean public school hours, hagwon schedules, and what life is actually like as a teacher.

What Time Does School Start in Korea?

For most students attending a Korean public school, the school day begins around 8:00–9:00 AM, depending on the school and grade level.

The schedule is quite different at hagwons. Since students attend their regular school during the day, most private academies begin classes in the afternoon and continue into the evening.

For teachers, this means your schedule can look completely different depending on whether you work at a public school or a hagwon.

Life as a Creverse Teacher

One of the things I enjoy most about teaching at Creverse is the schedule. Unlike public school teachers, I don’t have to wake up early in the morning.

Hagwons typically operate after students finish their regular school day. This means teachers often work afternoon and evening hours.

My Typical Creverse Schedule

My workday typically begins around 3:00 PM, giving me most of the morning and early afternoon to myself.

I usually wake up around 9:00 AM, which gives me several hours to:

• Run errands
• Go to the gym
• Meet up with friends
• Explore cafes
• Prepare lessons
• Take care of appointments
• Enjoy my hobbies

Classes begin at around 4:00 PM, when students arrive after finishing their regular school day.

My teaching schedule is divided into two main blocks:

4:00 PM–7:00 PM: First class block
7:00 PM–10:00 PM: Second class block

We also have breaks throughout the day. These breaks are especially useful because they give students time to transition between classes and make sure everyone gets to their buses safely.

Some hagwons can operate even later, particularly academies that cater to older students preparing for important exams. Fortunately, at Creverse, I’m usually finished and off the clock by 10:00 PM.

Why I Love the Hagwon Schedule

Honestly, the schedule is one of the biggest reasons I enjoyed working at Creverse for so long.

I’m much more of a night owl than a morning person, so having my mornings free was a huge benefit.

It also made everyday life much easier.

Need to visit the bank? No problem.

Have a doctor’s appointment? Easy.

Want to meet a friend for lunch? You have plenty of time.

I also noticed that places that are normally packed during lunch hours can be surprisingly quiet during the day because most people are at work.

For me, having several hours of personal time before work made it much easier to balance teaching with my life outside the classroom.

My amazing Creverse students!

Life as a Public School Teacher

Teaching at a Korean public school was a completely different experience.

I taught at a public elementary school for two years because I wanted to experience another side of education in Korea. While I enjoyed the experience, adjusting to the early mornings was definitely a challenge for me.

What Time Does Public School Start in Korea?

Korean public schools generally begin in the morning, with many students arriving around 8:00–9:00 AM.

The exact schedule can vary depending on the school, grade level, and individual timetable, but a typical day looks something like this:

These times are general examples rather than universal schedules. Korean schools can have different timetables depending on the school and grade.

My Elementary School Schedule

Since I taught at an elementary school, my own schedule was approximately 8:30 AM–4:30 PM.

The students generally finished their regular classes much earlier in the afternoon. From around 2:00 PM onward, I had more time to:

• Prepare upcoming lessons
• Grade assignments
• Plan activities
• Work with my co-teachers
• Catch up on administrative tasks

I also really enjoyed having this time to bond with my co-teachers. Some of my best memories from teaching in Korea came from the relationships I built with the other teachers.

That said, the early mornings never really became easy for me.

As someone who is naturally more of a night owl, getting up early every morning was probably the biggest adjustment I had to make while working at a public school.

Still, I’m incredibly grateful for the two years I spent there.

Grabbing dinner and dessert with my old public school colleague.

Public School vs. Hagwon: Which Schedule Is Better?

After experiencing both environments, I think the biggest difference comes down to when you want to work.

Public School Schedule

A typical public school schedule means:

• Early mornings
• Finishing in the afternoon
• More traditional school hours
• Regular weekends and holidays
• A schedule that closely resembles a conventional workday

This can be a great option if you prefer starting work early and having your evenings free.

Hagwon Schedule

Hagwon teachers generally work later in the day.

A typical schedule might look like:

• Late morning wake-up
• Afternoon start
• Classes throughout the afternoon
• Evening teaching
• Finishing around 9:00–10:00 PM

The major advantage is having your mornings and early afternoons free.

The downside is that your evenings are usually occupied, which can make it harder to attend evening events or maintain a traditional 9-to-5 lifestyle.

Which Teaching Schedule Is Right for You?

Having experienced both public school and hagwon teaching in Korea, I can honestly say that neither schedule is automatically better.

It depends on your personality and lifestyle.

If you’re an early riser who likes having your evenings free, a public school schedule might be a better fit.

If you’re a night owl who enjoys having your mornings free, you might prefer working at a hagwon.

For me, the hagwon schedule at Creverse was the better choice.

Having the morning and early afternoon available allowed me to take care of errands, explore Korea, meet friends, and enjoy my free time before heading to work.

Final Thoughts on School Hours in Korea

So, what time does school start in Korea?

For public school students, the school day generally starts somewhere around 8:00–9:00 AM. Hagwons are completely different, with classes typically beginning in the afternoon and continuing into the evening.

As a teacher, the difference between these schedules can have a major impact on your lifestyle.

After experiencing both, I personally found that the later hagwon teaching schedule suited me much better. I loved having my mornings free and being able to enjoy Seoul before heading to work.

If you’re thinking about teaching English in Korea, I highly recommend considering not just the salary or location, but also when you’ll actually be working every day.

Your teaching schedule will have a huge impact on your experience living in Korea—and finding one that fits your personality can make all the difference.

Michelle Duquette, Marketing Assistant

Michelle Duquette is from Toronto, Canada and moved to South Korea in 2015. She has a Bachelors in English literature and a Masters in ESL Education. Michelle has taught at Creverse campuses in Gangneung, Songpa, and Mokdong and currently works as a CDI and April Trainer. Michelle never set out to be a teacher but fell in love with Korean culture and the excitement of being in the classroom. Michelle lives in Seoul with her partner and two cats, Cherry and Frost.

If you love shopping, Dongdaemun Market should be at the top of your Seoul itinerary. It’s one of the largest shopping districts in South Korea and offers something for every budget. Whether you’re hunting for trendy fashion, wholesale clothing, Korean street food, or unique souvenirs, Dongdaemun is an experience you won’t want to miss.

While Seoul has plenty of famous shopping areas—like Myeongdong for cosmetics and street food or Garosu-gil for luxury boutiques—Dongdaemun has always been my favorite. One of my favorite ways to spend a Saturday evening is wandering through its endless shopping malls, grabbing a snack from a street vendor, and discovering great deals on clothes.

📍 How to Get to Dongdaemun Market

Getting to Dongdaemun Market is simple thanks to Seoul’s excellent public transportation system.

The closest subway stations are:

• Dongdaemun Station (Lines 1 & 4)
• Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (Lines 2, 4 & 5)

Several city buses also stop nearby, making it easy to reach from almost anywhere in Seoul.

If you’re visiting as a tourist, plan to spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding area before shopping. Right next to the market you’ll find:

• Heunginjimun (Dongdaemun) Gate
• The beautiful Seoul City Wall
• Seoul City Wall Museum
• Nearby parks perfect for relaxing before the market comes alive in the evening

💰 What to Budget

One of the best things about Dongdaemun is that it works for almost any budget.

You can find everything from inexpensive fashion to premium designer-inspired pieces. Prices vary depending on the quality and store, but many items cost significantly less than you’d expect compared to department stores.

I recommend bringing ₩100,000–₩150,000 if you plan on buying clothes or accessories. You’ll have plenty of options without feeling too limited.

Also, wear comfortable walking shoes. The shopping district is enormous, and you’ll easily walk several miles without realizing it.

Tip: Many stores stay open very late, and parts of the market operate overnight, making Dongdaemun one of Seoul’s best late-night attractions.

🛍️ What to Expect

Dongdaemun isn’t just one market—it’s an entire shopping district made up of multiple malls, wholesale buildings, retail stores, and food vendors spread across several city blocks.

If it’s your first visit, don’t feel pressured to buy everything immediately.

My biggest recommendation is:

1. Spend your first visit exploring.
2. Compare prices between buildings.
3. Return later to purchase your favorite finds.

This approach helps you avoid impulse purchases and gives you a better idea of where to find the best deals.

🍢 Don’t Skip the Street Food

Shopping works up an appetite, and thankfully Dongdaemun has plenty of delicious food options.

You’ll find vendors selling classic Korean street foods like:

• Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes)
• Hotteok (sweet pancakes)
• Eomuk (fish cakes)
• Gimbap
• Fried chicken
• Fresh fruit drinks

Even if you’re not planning to shop much, the food alone makes Dongdaemun worth visiting.

💡 Helpful Tips

• Visit after sunset to experience the market at its liveliest.
• Bring cash for smaller vendors, although many stores accept credit cards.
• Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking a lot.
• Compare prices before buying.
• Bring an extra tote bag—you’ll probably leave with more than you planned!

Final Thoughts

Dongdaemun Market is one of my favorite places in Seoul because there’s always something new to discover. Whether you’re searching for affordable fashion, enjoying Korean street food, or simply taking in the energetic atmosphere, it’s an experience that perfectly captures Seoul’s vibrant culture.

If you only have time to visit one shopping district during your trip, Dongdaemun should definitely be on your list.

🎥 Watch Before You Go

Get a feel for the atmosphere before your visit:

https://youtu.be/qhil5MBFw44?si=sKfj5RA6WNXwoiz7

Diana Richtman, Marketing Assistant

Diana Richtman is a writer and ESL teacher living in Seoul, South Korea. Originally from Savannah, Georgia in the United States, Diana holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia in English & Women’s Studies. After receiving her TEFL certification, Diana moved to South Korea where she works at one of Creverse’s April Institutes. When Diana isn’t working, she loves exploring Korea, drinking warm cups of tea, and scaring away her friends with her karaoke performances. 

Summer in South Korea is an incredible time to visit. Festivals, beaches, rooftop cafés, and vibrant city streets make it one of the most exciting seasons of the year. But there’s one thing every traveler quickly discovers: Korean summers are hot and humid.

The combination of high temperatures and humidity can catch first-time visitors off guard. Fortunately, with a little preparation, you’ll be able to enjoy everything Korea has to offer without letting the weather slow you down.

Here’s everything you should know before packing for your summer trip to Korea.

One of the biggest surprises for many visitors is how different the temperatures feel indoors versus outdoors.

Outside, it often feels like you’re walking through a sauna. Inside, however, restaurants, shopping malls, cafés, and subway cars are usually blasted with air conditioning.

Pack lightweight clothing such as:

• T-shirts and tank tops
• Shorts and skirts
• Breathable dresses
• Moisture-wicking fabrics

At the same time, don’t forget to bring a light cardigan, hoodie, or sweater for indoor spaces. You’ll appreciate the extra layer during long subway rides or while relaxing in a café.

Sunscreen Is Essential

If there’s one item you shouldn’t forget, it’s sunscreen.

The summer sun in Korea is surprisingly intense, especially if you’re spending the day exploring neighborhoods like Hongdae, Myeongdong, or Bukchon Hanok Village.

Forgot yours? No problem.

You can easily pick up high-quality sunscreen at Olive Young, Korea’s most popular health and beauty retailer. They carry dozens of Korean and international brands at reasonable prices.

Pro Tip: Reapply sunscreen every couple of hours, especially if you’re walking outside all day.

Carry a Small Trash Bag

One thing many travelers don’t expect is that public trash cans can be surprisingly difficult to find.

Despite this, Korea remains incredibly clean because most people simply carry their trash until they find somewhere to dispose of it.

Pack a small reusable bag or plastic bag inside your backpack or purse to hold:

• Coffee cups
• Snack wrappers
• Used tissues
• Water bottles

It’s a tiny travel hack that makes a huge difference.

Bring an Umbrella (Even When It Isn’t Raining)

An umbrella isn’t just for rainy days.

Many locals use umbrellas or parasols to block the sun while walking outside. After trying it yourself, you’ll understand why.

Besides occasional summer rain showers, an umbrella can:

• Keep you cooler
• Reduce direct sun exposure
• Make long walks much more comfortable

Save Storage for Your Vacation Photos

Summer in Korea is incredibly photogenic.

Whether you’re wandering colorful streets, relaxing at a beach, or enjoying a rooftop café, you’ll probably take hundreds of photos.

If you own a compact camera, consider bringing it along. It saves phone storage and often produces photos that feel more timeless than smartphone pictures.

If you prefer using your phone, make sure to:

• Back up photos to cloud storage
• Free up space before your trip
• Bring a portable power bank

Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day

It’s easy to underestimate how much water you’ll need.

Fortunately, convenience stores like GS25, CU, and 7-Eleven are everywhere, making it easy to grab:

• Bottled water
• Sports drinks
• Iced coffee
• Cold tea

Don’t hesitate to stop inside a café during the hottest part of the day. Taking a short break in the air conditioning is practically part of the Korean summer experience.

Don’t Forget These Summer Essentials

Before leaving home, make sure you’ve packed:

• ✅ Portable handheld fan
• ✅ Comfortable walking shoes
• ✅ Small towel or extra tissues
• ✅ Deodorant (selection can be limited in Korea)
• ✅ Portable charger or power bank
• ✅ Reusable water bottle

These small items can make your trip significantly more comfortable.

Final Thoughts

A Korean summer can be hot, humid, and occasionally overwhelming—but it’s also one of the most exciting times to visit the country.

From bustling night markets and beautiful beaches to lively festivals and endless cafés, there’s always something happening. As long as you pack wisely and stay hydrated, you’ll spend less time worrying about the heat and more time making unforgettable memories.

If you’re planning your first trip to Korea, a little preparation goes a long way—and these simple tips will help you enjoy every minute of your adventure.

Kaitlynne Maldonado, Marketing Assistant

I have always been passionate about traveling and experiencing different foods and cultures. So after I graduated with my bachelor’s in psychology from Central Christian College of Kansas, I decided it was time for a change of scenery. From working as a Registered Behavioral Technician, I packed my bags (and paperwork!) and leaped to teach as an English teacher in South Korea! When I’m not in the classroom, you can find me exploring hidden cafes to try different types of matcha drinks, trying street food, or attempting to hike the mountains near me. I am thrilled to continue this journey and have an experience of a lifetime!

Before I moved to Seoul, I had no idea why people loved cafés so much. In the United States, most cafés feel like restaurants or quick grab-and-go coffee shops. Korea certainly has its share of large coffee chains, but what makes Seoul special is its incredible café culture.

One of the most common answers you’ll hear when asking someone what they did over the weekend is, “I went café hopping.” After living here, I completely understand why. Seoul is filled with beautiful cafés serving exceptional coffee, creative desserts, and unforgettable interiors. Whether you’re looking for the perfect study spot, a cozy place to catch up with friends, or simply an excuse to enjoy great cake, these are five cafés you shouldn’t miss.

1. Sunny Bread

If you’re looking for one of Seoul’s cutest cafés, Sunny Bread is a must-visit. It offers a beautiful view of Lotte World Tower while serving delicious gluten-free and vegan desserts. The staff are incredibly welcoming, and their cupcake selection is unforgettable.

My recommendation: The Choco Pie Cupcake—it might become your new favorite dessert!

Location: https://naver.me/5jYbyhUV

2. Casanello Sicily

Hands down, Casanello Sicily serves some of the best cake in Seoul. Their chocolate banana pudding cake is rich and decadent, while the blueberry cake is light, fresh, and equally delicious. Pair either dessert with one of their expertly made espresso drinks, and you’ll understand why this café has become one of my favorites.

Don’t walk—run!

Location: https://naver.me/GG8s2lWn

3. AB Cafe

Every time friends or family visit me in Seoul, AB Cafe is one of my first recommendations—and everyone ends up loving it. With three spacious floors, a lively atmosphere, and late operating hours, it’s an ideal place for large groups, late-night desserts, or long conversations over coffee.

Location: https://naver.me/53l6c4Oj

4. Something About Coffee

If you’re serious about coffee, this café deserves a spot at the top of your list. Not only do they brew some of the best coffee in Seoul, but they also offer an incredible selection of pastries and desserts. With both indoor seating and a charming balcony, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon chatting with friends or catching up on a good book.

Located in Gangnam, this café is well worth the visit.

Location: https://naver.me/xRhaB1yM

5. Woolf Social Club

Named after Virginia Woolf, Woolf Social Club is one of Seoul’s most unique cafés. The shelves are filled with Korean feminist literature alongside translations of many influential English-language feminist books.

Whether you’re planning a cozy date, a solo reading afternoon, or your next book club meeting, this café offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. And while you’re there, don’t forget to order a slice of cake—and say hello to the friendly cat who lives outside!

Location: https://naver.me/5eUasb6W

Final Thoughts

One of my favorite parts of living in Seoul has been discovering its incredible café culture. Every neighborhood seems to have hidden gems waiting to be explored, and each café has its own personality, menu, and atmosphere.

If you’re planning a trip to Seoul—or you’re lucky enough to live here—be sure to add these cafés to your list. You might even find yourself spending your weekends café hopping like the locals.

Diana Richtman, Marketing Assistant

Diana Richtman is a writer and ESL teacher living in Seoul, South Korea. Originally from Savannah, Georgia in the United States, Diana holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia in English & Women’s Studies. After receiving her TEFL certification, Diana moved to South Korea where she works at one of Creverse’s April Institutes. When Diana isn’t working, she loves exploring Korea, drinking warm cups of tea, and scaring away her friends with her karaoke performances. 

When I first moved to South Korea, I didn’t really think of it as a beach destination. I pictured bustling cities, scenic mountains, cozy cafés, and historic sites—but beaches? Not so much.

Over time, though, I discovered that Korea is home to some truly beautiful beaches. Whether you’re looking for a lively summer atmosphere, a peaceful coastal escape, or crystal-clear island waters, there’s a beach for every type of traveler. Best of all, many of them are surprisingly easy to reach.

Here are some of my favorite beaches in South Korea and what you can expect when you visit.

Haeundae Beach (Busan)

If you’ve ever seen photos of a Korean beach, chances are it was Haeundae Beach in Busan.

The first time I visited, I was amazed by its size—and by the crowds. During peak summer season, the beach becomes incredibly busy, with rows of colorful umbrellas stretching across the sand. It’s a popular destination for families, tourists, and groups of friends looking to enjoy the ocean and the lively atmosphere.

One of the best parts of Haeundae is that the fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. The beachfront lights up at night, creating beautiful views and a vibrant energy that makes the area worth exploring long after you’ve left the water.

Gyeongpo Beach (Gangneung)

Gyeongpo Beach offers a completely different experience from Busan’s famous coastline.

Compared to Haeundae, it feels more spacious, relaxed, and less crowded. When I visited, I expected nothing more than a simple beach day, but I ended up staying for sunset—and it turned out to be one of the most beautiful sunsets I’ve seen in Korea.

Although Gyeongpo is still a popular summer destination, it maintains a calmer atmosphere that makes it perfect for travelers looking to unwind and enjoy the scenery.

Jeju Island Beaches (A Different Level)

The beaches on Jeju Island are in a category of their own.

The water is clearer, the landscapes feel more tropical, and the overall atmosphere is noticeably different from mainland Korea. If you’re looking for postcard-worthy scenery, Jeju delivers.

Some of my favorites include:

Hamdeok Beach

Known for its bright turquoise water and picturesque coastline, Hamdeok Beach is one of the most photogenic beaches in Korea.

Hyeopjae Beach

With its white sand and stunning ocean views, Hyeopjae Beach is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches on Jeju Island.

The first time I saw the water in Jeju, I actually stopped and stared for a moment. It didn’t feel like the Korea I had become familiar with—it felt like I had traveled to an entirely different country.

Eurwangni Beach (Near Seoul)

If you’re based in Seoul and don’t want to spend hours traveling, Eurwangni Beach is one of the most convenient beach destinations in South Korea.

Located near Incheon, it can be reached in about an hour, making it an ideal choice for a spontaneous day trip. While the water isn’t as clear as Jeju’s and the scenery isn’t quite as dramatic as Busan’s coastline, its accessibility is a huge advantage.

Sometimes, convenience is exactly what you need.

Final Thoughts

I never expected to become a “beach person” after moving to Korea, but somehow that’s exactly what happened.

Each of these beaches has its own personality. Haeundae is energetic and lively, Gyeongpo is peaceful and relaxing, Jeju feels tropical and breathtaking, and Eurwangni makes quick beach escapes possible from Seoul.

Now, every summer, I find myself planning at least one beach trip. Even if it means sitting under an umbrella, eating convenience store snacks, and wondering how everyone else seems so effortlessly prepared, it’s always worth it.

And honestly, that’s part of the fun.

Michelle Duquette, Marketing Assistant

Michelle Duquette is from Toronto, Canada and moved to South Korea in 2015. She has a Bachelors in English literature and a Masters in ESL Education. Michelle has taught at Creverse campuses in Gangneung, Songpa, and Mokdong and currently works as a CDI and April Trainer. Michelle never set out to be a teacher but fell in love with Korean culture and the excitement of being in the classroom. Michelle lives in Seoul with her partner and two cats, Cherry and Frost.