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Category: Relocation

12 Jun
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CultureLifestyleRelocationBy aclipse

Teaching And Living In Ilsan

Where I'm From

I’m a beach girl who spent the last few years in big cities—from NYC to Madrid back to NYC. The moment I decided to pick up my life and move across the world to Korea, I knew I did not want to be in the big city anymore. I missed waking up to the sounds of nature, but I was also wise enough to know I had become accustomed to access. Access to variation and choices, which I wasn’t necessarily willing to give up. I held my breath. With little research and a lot of trust in my amazing recruiter, I ended up in a place that more than met my desires and even exceeded them! Here’s what it’s like living in Ilsan!

 

High view of Madrid, Spain streets

Where I'm At!

A map of Korea that highlights where Goyang City is in relation to Seoul City.

A few months before my departure from New York City, I was informed I would be placed in a city called Ilsan, or ‘a mountain’. Ilsan is about an hour northwest of Seoul in Goyang. I figured, in the worst-case scenario, I could always commute to Seoul on the weekends. However, it turned out that Ilsan is its own vibrant haven. Home to the biggest man-made lake in Asia, there is so much to do outside and many unique places to eat. You can rent bikes and coast for miles or have a picnic in the massive space that is Ilsan Lake Park during cherry blossom season. There are even multiple water parks in Ilsan! 

 

Overhead view of Ilsan Lake Park
A view of nature in Ilsan Lake Park with a bird flying by

Endless Access

Ilsan is easy to walk, but it is also connected by endless bus lines and subways. I never feel isolated. The variety of things to do is something I least expected. Some days I get off late, and some days I’m off completely, so it’s nice to have activities that meet those time differences. There are dance studios, two huge open-street shopping malls (Western Dom and Lafesta), endless pochas, 24-hour spas in basements, movie theaters, and endless opportunities to do karaoke. 

While I am still exploring my new home and becoming accustomed to my surroundings, I am thankful to be in a place that feels extremely local and quaint yet well connected and accessible. I highly recommend considering teaching and working in Ilsan if you want to be in the center of nature, with full accessibility to the benefits of city life!

Night view of the streets of Ilsan, Korea

Jasmine Phillips is a wanderlust explorer currently living and teaching English in Ilsan, South Korea. Jasmine is originally from Virginia Beach, VA but has lived in many places, such as Berlin, Madrid and New York City. Her undergrad is in Cultural Anthropology with a minor in international social justice. Her hopes are to eventually continue her studies in Ethnomusicology in South Africa. When Jasmine isn’t working she is curled up with a heart-wrenching memoir, spending time with strangers or painting giant canvases.

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23 May
RelocationVisaBy aclipse

Getting My F-4 Visa

My Heritage

I’ve wanted to experience living in South Korea since I was 11-years old. Some of my fondest childhood memories are watching my grandmother’s Korean variety shows while eating rolls on rolls of her fresh 김밥(Kimbap, Seaweed rice). 

 

An overseas Korean and his mother
A picture of me and my mother who is half Korean and half Puerto Rican.

In the summer of 2022 I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in English and this past spring 2024 I received an offer to teach in South Korea. In order to legally teach English in South Korea, a work visa is required. I was under the impression that I would be using a regular, 1-year, E-2 Teaching Visa (E-2 Visa Info); however, I was shocked to learn that I qualify for a 교포 (Gyopo, National), F-4 Visa (F-4 Visa Info). For context: a 교포 (Gyopo) is someone who is ethnically Korean, but has spent most of their life living outside of South Korea. 

 

Overseas Korean

To preface, I’m 25% Korean, 25% Puerto Rican, and 50% White. Aside from a few family friends,  I grew up in an extremely small town with little to no Asian culture. In 2012, I was exposed to the idea of teaching English overseas. Once I learned about this opportunity, it felt like I received a golden ticket to learning more about my Korean culture. 

 

Family picture of an overseas Korean family.
My Korean grandmother and Puerto Rican grandfather with my mother and her sisters.
An overseas Korean family.
My Korean Grandmother at the center of it all!

I qualified for the F-4 Visa due to my grandmother previously holding Korean citizenship. She moved to the United States in 1973 after marrying my Puerto Rican grandfather; therefore she was eventually naturalized as an American citizen. Here are some pictures of my grandparents!

 

A Korean woman and Puerto Rican couple
A Korean woman
A Puerto Rican man in the US Military

F-4 Visa: Overseas Korean (Gyopo)

The F-4 Visa is reserved for someone who’s parents OR grandparents have previously held Korean nationality and withdrew their Korean citizenship; hence the word 교포 (Gyopo, National). This visa has more benefits than a traditional E-2 Teaching Visa such as:

  • not needing a job contract to move to South Korea.
  • being able to legally tutor students as a part-time job. (Must be registered with your local Ministry of Education Office.)
  • holding the visa for 2 years with easy renewal. (After first renewal, it is valid for 3 years.)
  • the ability to apply for the F-4 Visa for while in South Korea on a tourist visa.

While the F-4 Visa has some great benefits, much more documentation is needed to receive it from a Korean consulate. Each consulate office requires different documentation, so applicants must call their local consulate office to double check their requirements (List of all Korean Consulates in the USA). With that being said, here are the documents that I was asked to prepare for the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Washington DC:

 
Application for an F-4 Visa
  • FBI Background check specifically apostilled by the Department of State (Instructions on how to apostille documents)
  • Completed visa application from the Korean Embassy website
  • 2 x 2 printed color photo of the applicant
  • 2 x 2 printed color photo of the previous Korean national
  • A Korean family registry
  • The applicant’s passport and birth certificate
  • The previous Korean national’s passport, naturalization papers, etc.
  • The applicant’s mother’s proof of nationality (birth certificate, passport, naturalization papers, etc.)
  • The applicant’s father’s proof of nationality (birth certificate, passport, naturalization papers, etc.)
  • The applicant’s grandfather’s proof of nationality (birth certificate, passport, naturalization papers, etc.)
  • $55 cash

            When in doubt, bring everything you can to prove your family member previously held Korean citizenship and is no longer a Korean citizen. This can include: marriage licenses, death certificates, photographs, retirement documents, etc. The more legal documentation you can provide, the better chance you have of receiving the F-4 Visa as quickly as possible.

 

A record of an ethnic Korean's family tree
This is an example of an official Korean family registry.

To Be Continued..

Preparing all of the documentation listed above was a grueling process to say the least. With my turn-around time being only 2-3 months, I made sure to get started on finding these documents as soon as I finished my call with the Korean Embassy.

My meeting with the consulate is going to be in June. Stay tuned for an update on how my F-4 Visa meeting goes and the amount of time it takes to receive it!

 

Gabriel (Gabe) White is a soon to be English teacher in South Korea. He is a Korean, Puerto Rican-American  from the Richmond, Virginia area and received a bachelor’s degree in English from Virginia Commonwealth University. Being involved in student organizations like Filipino Americans Coming Together at VCU (FACT@VCU) and VCU Globe during his college years, Gabe learned just how much he enjoys experiencing new cultures. In his free time, Gabe loves teaching local dance classes, spending quality time with his loved ones, exploring new cities, and watching nostalgic movies. 

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09 May
LifestyleRelocationTeachingBy aclipse

My First Weeks Teaching In Korea

Moving to a new country always comes with a mix of excitement and challenges. Teaching in Korea has brought on a whirlwind of new experiences and surprises that has made this one of the best choices I have ever made! Here’s what it’s been like so far living in Korea and teaching at April English in Cheonan, South Korea. 

 

Convenience Is King

One of the things that I noticed within my first week of living and teaching in Korea is the proximity of everything. Hailing from the Toronto area, I’m accustomed to relying on a car for even the most basic errands. Here in Korea, you will be surprised to find that most things (if not everything) you could possibly need is within walking distance. Before I moved to Korea I was really stressed out because I needed a haircut before my flight,  but it was too late to book one. I was worried I wouldn’t be able to find a good salon close by, since I knew I wouldn’t have a car in Korea. 

 

I quickly realized it was a complete non-issue! There’s probably 5 hair salons within a 15-minute walk from my apartment. Everywhere I walk I see cozy cafes, and endless restaurants. There is also a convenience store on every corner of my street. So anytime I’m relaxing and watching some Netflix, I can just quickly run down to the convenience store to grab something if I need a snack or a drink. 

 

Easing In To My Apartment

Apartment of an English teacher in South Korea
Kitchen shelves in a apartment for English teachers in Korea

My apartment came fully furnished, but I still needed to get plates, utensils, cups, bathroom essentials, cleaning supplies etc. Daiso is one of my favorite stores for that. Daiso is the Korean version of the dollar store. It has basically everything you could ever need or want for less than $5. On top of that, everything is so stylish and trendy, and the quality is amazing. You would never even guess that everything in my apartment is from the equivalent of a dollar store! 

 

Korean dollar store chain Diaso in South Korea

Teaching And Training

Preparing to teach in a foreign country can be daunting, but the training week was a game changer and helped me to seamlessly transition into the classroom with confidence. When I landed in Korea my training started about 2 days after. The training was for one week. The training covered everything from the lesson plans, classroom management, expectations, and more. My trainer was super friendly and very helpful to me throughout my training week. 

 

A group of native English teachers collaborating at Chungdahm Institute in South Korea

The Little Things

One of the first things I tried when I got to Korea was pizza at a Korean chain called “Mr. Pizza.” It is definitely a new experience as Korean-style pizza as it is both a little sweet and extremely cheesy. I was also surprised to see you could order toppings like shrimp and sweet potato! While most people don’t move half way around the world to try Korean-style pizza, it was really fun to just experience something I never knew even existed! I definitely recommend trying it at least once. You can also find popular western chains such as Dominos or Papa Johns if Korean-style pizza isn’t your forte!

 

A view of the streets in Cheonan South Korea at night

Moving to Korea was one of the decisions I ever made. From my bustling neighborhood to the convenience of everything, and the invaluable insights gained through training. Each experience has been a stepping stone towards embracing this new chapter of my life. 

Here’s to a year of exploration, learning, and laughter as I navigate the joys of teaching in Korea. I can’t wait to see where my adventure takes me!

 

Aisha Khan is from Brompton, Ontatio, Canada, and earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from York University. She held roles in Account Management and Administration at companies like the the Bank of Montreal, TD Canada Trust,  and Air Canada but was looking for a new adventure. She found Aclipse, and decided to take the leap of faith and teach English abroad.

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12 Apr
LifestyleRelocationTravelBy aclipse

Why I Loved Teaching English In Korea

Applying To Teach On a Whim

My best friend in college is from Seoul, so I decided to visit her the summer before my senior year of College. I was only there for four days, and had no expectations, except to go to a Hello Kitty cafe and to eat a lot of beef. I had close to zero context for Korea, so what I experienced was a sort of reverse Paris Syndrome. Everything took me by surprise, and just felt nice. The crisp cold, the subway jingles, the pace, and the view of a mountain anywhere you looked. 

 

4 female English teachers posing for a picture in Seoul Korea

When it was time to look for jobs, I saw a posting on the university job board and applied to teach in Korea on a whim. The idea of finding a cushy corporate job in a big city in the states didn’t sound appealing. Moving abroad and starting over felt ideal. So without giving it much thought, I just did it. I moved in August and so many little things made sense. Having my own apartment with a view of the skyline, walking alone at midnight without worrying about safety, trying foods that not even LA Korean food could live up to. It’s so culturally, historically, aesthetically rich, and there’s such an eye to craft and care that you don’t see in the states. 

 

A view of Seoul from an English teacher's apartment.
An English teacher posing in South Korea
A live music performance in Seoul Korea

Moving To Korea

My homesickness dissipated very quickly. Just within training week, I met other teachers who became my best friends. It was surprisingly a lot easier to make friends than I anticipated. I was part of a lot of Facebook groups, but more often I was able to meet people just by being out and about at cafes or at clubs. I also met more and more teachers from other branches, which helped, as we were able to share anecdotes of the hilarious, sweet, and ridiculous things our students would say and do. I’ve maintained these friendships to this day. One just had a baby, another I just had dinner with in Seoul, and one who I video call every month, often to just reminisce about our years together teaching English in Korea. 

 

A group of English teachers celebrating at a restaurant
English teachers acting silly at a restaurant in Korea

My First Year

Within that first year, I traveled to Mongolia and the Philippines, got lasik eye surgery, tried live octopus, and was tour guide to my family and multiple friends from home. I quickly realized that it was very easy to save money, even with shopping, traveling, and eating out a bunch. Because of severance pay and receiving my pension contributions, I was able to save about 18,000 USD within the year, which let me travel abroad for two years after that. I went through so many places in Asia, Europe, and even lived in South Africa for a while. When I ran out of money, it was a no brainer, so I applied to teach in Korea again.

 

An English teacher in Jeju, South Korea on the beach
Sashimi raw fish preparation in South Korea
A large group of Native English language teachers drinking and eating at an outdoor bar in Korea

Round 2!

This time, I got even more from the experience. I taught with CDI, with the older students, which I loved because we were able to really engage with each other. I got asked to be a marketing assistant, which was so fun and easy, sharing details about my experience with prospective candidates. Shortly after, I also got recruited to be a trainer at the Training Center, showing the incoming teachers the ropes. Training was honestly just as fun as teaching, giving me extra income and a chance to meet even more new people. These opportunities came so seamlessly, and the jobs were so easy and enjoyable that I didn’t have to think too much about them. 

 

Korean middle school students acting silly in their English class at CDI.
English teachers posing with a Korean student at CDI

Life After Korea

After that year, I felt a little bit antsy to travel elsewhere, so I ended up moving back to South Africa for a while. I had saved a lot that I didn’t have to worry about working, and delved into learning how to tattoo, and pursuing other creative interests. I wouldn’t have been able to do that without all the savings I had from teaching. I’ve since moved to New York, but I’m always fantasizing about what would’ve happened if I stayed. As silly as it sounds, I feel like making that decision to move to Korea really remedied any chances of me having a mid-life crisis. I spent my 20s doing exactly what I wanted, with a low-stress, fulfilling job, safe home environment, and ample time for hobbies. I experienced so many things that I wouldn’t have imagined I’d do throughout a lifetime. I bonded with my students, and still email with them to this day. I visited so many countries, met some of my best friends, and basically let my curiosity lead me wherever. Teaching in Korea allowed me to explore all my desires, and I have no regrets about how I’ve spent my time up to this point. 

 

An English teacher posing with ice cream cones at a convenient store.

When Aclipse reached out to me last fall about becoming a recruiter, it was an even easier decision. It feels like such a full circle moment, being on the opposite end of the process that I started all those years ago. Whenever candidates ask me for my honest opinion, I say just go. You really never know what is out there for you, and it will probably exceed what you can even imagine. 

 

An English teacher recording a podcast in South Korea

Nico Salvador is from Los Angeles, California and graduated from Brown University with a degree in English. She planned to stay in Korea for one year after graduation, but ended up teaching on and off for five years. After travelling the world, Nico now lives in New York and works as a Recruiter for Aclipse while pursuing other new ventures. She has held several key roles at Creverse throughout her time teaching in Korea, and we can’t wait to see where her journey takes her next! 

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28 Mar
MoneyRelocationBy aclipse

Must-Join Facebook Groups In Korea

Must-Join Facebook Groups in Korea

Living abroad and navigating life in a new country and culture comes with its own set of challenges. Who is the best English-speaking doctor in your area? Where is the best place to buy new furniture? What nightlife events are happening this weekend? Fortunately, Facebook groups are a great resource for teachers in Korea looking for support, advice, and community. In this blog post, I will highlight some Facebook groups that I joined when I moved to Korea.

Every Expat in Korea

With nearly 100 thousand members, this is the go to Facebook group for navigating life in Korea. If you need advice on anything from finding the best deals on concert tickets to which ATM to use to avoid withdrawal fees, this group has you covered. Community members post and respond to questions daily. I joined this group the week I moved to Korea and have used it several times. This group helped me find a Korean tutor and I even found people that were going to the same EDM festival to meet up!

 

Advertisement from Facebook group every expat in Korea

Buy and Sale Korea

Don’t let the grammatically incorrect group name fool you! This is the biggest and best Facebook group for buying and selling items while living in Korea. You can find advertisements for people reselling phones, bikes, clothing, computers, and even cars. I recently purchased an Apple watch secondhand from this group and had an excellent experience communicating with the seller. Once they posted the item in the mail and sent me a picture of the proof of shipping, I transferred the funds directly to their account and my watch arrived the same day.

 

A listing from an English teacher in Korea to sell electconics items

Inked Korea

Korea has some of the world’s best tattoo artists and new studios are opening all the time. If you’re looking to commemorate your time living and teaching in Korea or just want to indulge your creativity and self-expression, check out this group for tattoo artist recommendations. You can also find detailed  information about where to get a specific style of tattoo. The thing I like most about this group is that shops will post promotions so you can make sure you get the best possible rates for your new ink.

Front page of Facebook group where expats in Korea post about tattoos in South Korea

Restaurant Buzz Seoul

This Facebook group is one of the best places to find delicious places to eat across Seoul. From the best street food stalls to Michelin star dining experiences, this group has recommendations for all types of cuisine. Since the group comprises mainly of foreigners, this is a great way to find the best Western and International restaurants in your area. Once you request to join the group, you’ll have access to posts about new and upcoming restaurants and the staple must-eat locations. If you’re a foodie then this is the group for you!

 

Facebook group restaurant buzz seoul highlighting Five guys restaurant
Screenshot of facebook group restaurant buzz seoul

Joining Facebook groups tailored to foreigners in Korea has helped me to transition more smoothly and improved my experience overall. From finding practical advice to making new social connections, Facebook groups offer a supportive community that will make your time in Korea that much better.

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. 

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19 Mar
MoneyRelocationBy aclipse

Sending Money Home From Korea

Overseas Remittance

A huge concern some people have before moving abroad is finances. A major question I had was how I would get money to my bank account in the States. There are a couple of different ways you can send money home, regardless of your home country. First, you can do an overseas remittance at your bank. If this option isn’t ideal for you, you can also download a 3rd party app that will allow you to send money abroad. In this guide, you’ll find helpful tips and tricks for navigating both methods when sending money home.

 

Cell phone showing banking app of Wooribank in Korea

Using Your Korean Bank

In order to send money home directly from your Korean bank account, you’ll need to go in person to your bank. Most banks in Seoul and major cities have bank tellers who speak English, but I recommend asking a Korean friend to come with you if you’re in a small town. Once the remittance account is set up, you can easily send money home this way. There are really only two negatives to going directly through your Korean bank: First, there’s usually a fee associated with each transfer (I’ve seen anywhere between 8,000-20,000 won, which is about $6-15 USD). Second, it usually takes 1-2 days for the money to appear in your U.S. bank account. However, once you have it set up, this option is easy and can be done from your regular banking app!

Below are the basics of what information you need to have on hand when setting up a remittance account with your Korean bank. Most of the information for my bank account in the U.S. is easily accessible on my bank’s app, so look there first if you’re unsure about some of this information!

What you’ll need to give your Korean bank:

  • Your name
  • Address in Korea
  • Phone number in Korea
  • The recipient’s name
  • The recipient’s address
  • Their phone number
  • The international bank name
  • The bank address
  • The bank code
  • The account number
Directions on overseas remittance from a Korean bank.

Apps For Sending Money

If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of physically going into your bank in Korea to set up a remittance account, you can use an app for sending money home. After asking my friends who have used this option, there seem to be a few pros to this method: First, depending on the app you use, the fees associated with the transaction can be lower. Second, you can potentially get the money in your home bank account faster than by going through your Korean bank. Even if you initially set up overseas remittance with your bank, one of these apps is good to have on hand in case there is an emergency!

For most of these apps, you’ll need similar information to what your Korean bank will require for an overseas remittance. Some might differ or require more, but the setup process can be done entirely from the comfort of your phone. No in-person conversations necessary!

 

Advertisement from Sentbe which is an international money transfer app in Korea

Below are a few options for apps that allow you to send money overseas:

  • WireBarley: One of my closest friends here in Seoul uses WireBarley, and she can personally vouch for how user-friendly it is. Plus, she says this is a great option for people looking to avoid expensive fees!
  • Wise: If you need to send money to Korea rather than to your home country, I’ve heard this is a particularly good app to do it with. Wise is also another great option if you’re worried about fees.
  • SentBe: SentBe is another popular app for sending money overseas! Just be careful with this one. Although it’s fast and reliable, it also has a transaction limit for a single transfer.
Apps for sending money overseas from Korea.

It’s been amazing getting to travel the world and earn money doing a job I love. There’s no reason you won’t be able to save money each month when you live in Korea. Knowing I have plenty of options for sending money home has given me such peace of mind. I hope this article helps you have a better idea of how you’ll send money home, so you can focus more on the life-changing adventure ahead of you!

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. 

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06 Mar
CareerRelocationTeachingBy aclipse

Types Of English Teaching Jobs In Korea

English Education In South Korea

Considering how largely education is valued in South Korea, it comes with no surprise that it’s become a central hub for many current and aspiring educators. There are many different types of English teaching jobs in Korea. Below are a few pros and cons to consider when thinking about teaching in the peninsula.

 

Korean students learning English at Chungdahm Institute in South Korea

Public Schools

A native English language teacher in a classroom for EPIK

Pro:

The English Program in Korea (also known as EPIK) is the best way to get your foot into Korea’s public school system. EPIK offers some flexibility regarding curriculum and teaching methods, as they typically cater to bigger class sizes. 

Con:

There’s some limitations regarding location preferences—one could end up in a very rural area. It’s common for one instructor to be assigned to each school so there will likely not be any foreign colleagues. Also, the pay may be less competitive—as pay caps within the public school system are precisely set.

 

Private Academies (Hagwons)

Pro:

For those preferring a more lucrative salary, hagwons or private academies might be the better route—as private academies tend to have more structured curriculums that allow educators to engage closely with students or on a more individualized level. The plus side of working in the afternoons frees up time in the morning for personal activities.

Con:

As hagwons are prominent nationwide, different reputations may vary—especially within the small, privately owned academies.

 

A Native English teacher in a classroom with Korean middle school students in South Korea
A group of English language teachers posing with awards in South Korea

International Schools

Pro:

International schools cater to a diverse student body including both local and expatriate learners. There might be some reassurance with the familiarities of teaching a Western curriculum.

Con:

Since they follow international curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), international schools only hire certified teachers.

 

A student learning in an International School in Korea

Universities

Pro:

For those with a masters or a doctorate, teaching positions at universities might be an option. These roles often involve conducting specific research topics alongside teaching responsibilities. It is a combination of contributing to the academic community while enjoying a higher level of autonomy in the classroom.

Con:

University positions tend to be extremely competitive—many require, at the very least, a master’s degree in a specialized field.

 

A Native English language teacher in a University classroom

South Korea’s vibrant education landscape offers a multitude of teaching positions to suit various preferences and skill sets. Whether you’re drawn to the flexibility of public schools, the structure of hagwons, the global environment of international schools, or the academic rigor of universities, there’s a teaching role in South Korea waiting to be embraced. If you want help navigating the different types of teaching jobs in Korea, apply to Aclipse now!

Joe Achacoso first embarked on his ESL journey in 2010 to satiate his longing desire for travel. An opportunity intended to be a 1-year contract turned into a 10-year tenure—as an English teacher, faculty manager, instructor trainer and curriculum developer. His adventures in global education continued with a master’s, and it came full circle when he joined Aclipse’s recruiting team—hoping to help the like-minded achieve the same transformative experience!

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29 Feb
MoneyRelocationBy aclipse

A Guide to Opening Your Bank Account in Korea

Opening Your Bank Account

One of the important tasks you’ll need to take care of when you start your teaching job in Korea is setting up a bank account. When I first moved, I had a lot of questions and didn’t know where to begin. But I’ve got you covered! I was surprised at just how easy it was to get things set up, so long as I had the right documents! Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about opening your bank account in Korea that will make your time as a teacher a lot easier in the months ahead.

 

A bankbook, check card, and OTP password device from KEB bank in south Korea

What Documents Will I Need?

First, keep in mind that document requirements can be updated at any time and may vary depending on the specific bank you apply at. While you can use this info as a general guide, I suggest that you have a friend or your school manager call ahead to ensure that you have everything you need when applying. Typically, you should prepare the following items:

  • A valid passport
  • A certificate of employment which you can get from your school
  • An Alien Registration Card (ARC) which is typically ready 4-6 weeks after you arrive in Korea

The bank may allow you to open your account using only your passport but it will depend on the location. In my experience, I opened my KEB Hana account with my passport and then went back to the bank a few weeks later to switch the account to my ARC when it was ready.

A native English teacher opening a bank account in South Korea.

What Type Of Account Should I Open?

Korean banks offer a variety of account types but I recommend that you open a “Foreign Designated Account”. If you want to transfer your money abroad or use ATM services outside of Korea, you need to have foreign designated account. You should also keep in mind that there are limits on the amount you can transfer or withdraw per day based on your salary, so ask about this limit at the bank.

 

A native English teacher presenting an ATM card to make payment in South Korea.

What If I Can’t Speak Korean?

Most banks have at least one English-speaking staff, especially at large branches in major cities like Seoul or Busan. If you’re in a smaller city, there is a chance that no one will be able to speak English fluently. If that’s the case, you may want to bring a Korean speaker with you or have one on the phone to help. You will probably be just fine without one, but it might make things smoother. If you don’t know anyone who can help you, try calling the Korea Tourism hotline by dialing 1330 or the Foreign Immigration hotline by dialing 1345. They may be able to help you translate during the account setup.

 

A foreigner opening a bank account in South Korea.

Which Bank Should I Choose?

In my experience, the most foreign friendly bank is KEB Hana Bank (하나은행). They have great English phone support and an easy to use English bank application. That being said, all large banks in Korea like Shinhan (신한은행), Woori (우라은행), KB (국민은행), and Citibank also have full foreigner support. It may depend branch to branch, but you will not encounter any issues opening a bank account! 

 

The front of a Korean Exchange Bank (KEB) in South Korea that is foreigner friendly.
A Wooribank branch in South Korea
Shinhan bank branch in South Korea

Opening a bank account might seem daunting at first, but with the right information and a bit of preparation the process should be painless. Remember to gather all your necessary documents and before you know it you will be saving and spending in Korea with ease!

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. 

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22 Feb
CultureLifestyleRelocationBy aclipse

Coolest Technology Innovations In Korea

Exploring the Coolest Tech Innovations In Korea

One thing many people know about Korea, besides K-Pop and K-Dramas, is that Korea has seamlessly integrated technology into everyday life. From robot coffee shops to futuristic bus stops, Korea is pioneering new innovations that make your daily life as a teacher more convenient. Let me tell you about some of the coolest technology innovations in Korea I use or see almost every day!

 

Smart Bus Stops

People standing in an enclosed Smart bus stop in South Korea

Waiting for the bus is usually uneventful, but my daily commute has never been more enjoyable thanks to smart bus stops. These high-tech shelters have interactive touchscreens that provide real-time bus schedules and weather updates. Another feature I love is that there are built-in WiFi and USB charging ports so you don’t have to use your data while waiting for the bus. These shelters even have heated seats so you can stay warm in the winter.

Smart touch screen at a smart bus stop in Korea
Charging ports and hand sanitizers at smart Bus Stop in Korea

Umbrella Dryers

A man following directions on a standing sign on how to use the eco friendly umbrella dryer.

There is nothing worse than lugging around a wet umbrella, especially during the rainy season. However, Korea’s umbrella dryers have got you covered. Dryers are located outside of most subway stations and corporate buildings. They use a combination of air and UV light to quickly dry your umbrella. The dryer is really user-friendly, and is one of the most practical and appreciated bits of technology. Innovations like this makes my life in Korea more comfortable.

 

An umbrella dryer being used in South Korea

Robot Coffee Shops

Robot cafe in South Korea.

Have you ever had your coffee made by an AI barista? In Korea, robot coffee shops are popping up all over and make for a fun and unique cafe experience. These automated cafes not only serve up delicious beverages but also showcase the latest advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence. The cafes are really cool to experience, and have different drink options available.

 

People waiting for coffee to be made at a robot coffee shop

VR Cafes

Inside a VR Cafe in South Korea

Another cool place to grab a coffee and unwind after a busy week of teaching is a VR cafe. Korea is home to some of the world’s most advanced VR cafes where visitors can immerse themselves in virtual worlds and experiences. The cafes offer a bunch of different immersive games to play on your own or with friends. I recommend you check out VR Plus Cafe in Gangnam located near Gangnam Station Exit 1.

 

In conclusion, these technology innovations have transformed the way I live, work, and play. If you’re looking to change up your present life and teach in Korea, one thing is clear: the future is already here, and it’s super cool!

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. re 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. 

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19 Feb
CultureLifestyleRelocationBy aclipse

The Best Ways to Learn Korean: Tips and Strategies

Tips For Learning Korean

Before I moved to Korea, I didn’t know what to expect with the language barrier. Would I love it? Hate it? Struggle with it? Now six months into living in South Korea, I can honestly say one of my favorite parts of living here is the language. Not only is Korean beautiful but the language barrier has pushed me to try something I never thought I would: learn a second language. While big cities like Seoul are English-friendly, the challenge of reading and speaking in Korean has been one of the most rewarding parts of this whole experience! It’s given me a deeper appreciation for communication and more passion for teaching my own language! Here are all my best tips for learning Korean.

 

English teacher standing in front of a mountain and Han River in South Korea

Learn To Read Hangul

Learning Hangul, the Korean alphabet, has to be your first step. It’s easy to fall into the habit of searching online for the Romanized pronunciation of Korean words, but in the long run, this is only going to hold you back. Korean sounds and English sounds are not one-to-one, so save yourself the trouble and learn Hangul before anything else. I didn’t learn to read Hangul until my second month in Korea, but once I did, I felt so empowered!

A chart showing the pronunciation of all basic characters of Hangul, the Korean alphabet.

Ask Your Students For Help

Of course, don’t ask them to teach you during class time, but I’ve found my Korean students love teaching me Korean before class and during break times! Adults have a tendency to overcomplicate things, but kids usually give the simplest answer. This can really help when it comes to Korean, especially if you’re a beginner! Plus, letting your kids teach you little phrases can go a long way in class. It helps them know you’re approachable and just as passionate about their language as you are about English!

Korean middle school students at Chungdahm English language Institute in Eouth Korea

Take A Class

I took a two month Korean class, and I can’t recommend it enough. It gave me structure and helped me develop my confidence speaking the language in a safe space before using it out and about in Korea! Sometimes, the hardest part is starting, and a class is the perfect way to kick-start your Korean journey! Here’s a brief look at a few different options.

  • Hagwons: Hagwons are private learning academies, and Korea has everything from science and math to English and Korean hagwons! This was the option I went with, and I’m so glad I did. It gave me a great foundation for understanding the language. Also, since I teach at a hagwon, it gave me insight into what my students are experiencing when they come to class each day!
  • Free Courses: There are plenty of free resources online as well as community centers in Korea that offer free classes to foreigners. Some of my friends have done this option and have loved it. Free courses tend to have bigger class sizes, but of course, you don’t have to pay for them! Here is an online class on Coursera by one of the top Universities in Korea.
  • Online Tutor: Learn Korean from the comfort of your apartment! I’ve met with an online Korean tutor a few times, and the best part is the one-on-one attention. Just like my students, sometimes it’s hard to ask questions in front of my peers. This option allows you to focus on your own personal shortcomings as a student and specialize your learning based on your interests and needs! But the best part? You can start learning now with an online tutor and not have to wait until you’ve moved to Korea.
front page of a free course to learn Korean language through Coursera.

Listen To K-Pop & Watch K-Dramas

Everyone I know who has spent time watching k-dramas and listening to k-pop has had a significant advantage when it comes to learning Korean. Immersing yourself in Korean entertainment is a fun way to absorb the language. While you probably won’t become fluent this way, it’ll definitely help you get a sense for the language! Netflix is great because they have English subtitles.

Front page of the netflix homepage for Korean dramas.

Don’t Get Lazy & Don’t Get Discouraged

In cities like Seoul, it’s easy to get complacent when it comes to learning Korean because Seoul is so English-friendly, but I’ve found locals really appreciate it when foreigners speak Korean. The best way to learn a language is to use it as much as possible, so even when you’d rather just switch to English, challenge yourself to use your Korean! Most importantly, don’t get discouraged! Learning a language doesn’t happen overnight. Making mistakes is all a part of the learning process, so don’t be afraid and don’t beat yourself up over it. Learning Korean has been so much fun for me – and trust me, I don’t have a natural affinity towards language learning – so I know it can be for you too! Hopefully some of these tips for learning Korean will help your own your journey!

 

Two native English language teachers in South Korea posing in front of a department store during the winter holiday season.

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. 

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