How to Become a Teacher in South Korea

Teaching in South Korea is a remarkable opportunity for educators who want to combine their love for teaching with an immersive cultural experience, and career changers who want to dive into a new adventure. With its dynamic culture, modern cities, and robust history, South Korea can be a unique setting for professional and personal growth. Plus, the demand for qualified teachers is high, making it a popular destination for educators from around the globe. 

Keep reading below for a step-by-step outline of how to become a teacher in South Korea, including the necessary qualifications and why earning a U.S. teaching license is often the most direct path for aspiring international educators. 

What Do You Need to Be a Teacher in South Korea?  

To teach in South Korea, you need to meet a few main qualifications to ensure that you are prepared to provide quality education and can successfully navigate the professional environment. These include:

• A bachelor’s degree in any subject from an accredited institution 
• A recognized teaching credential like a U.S. teaching license, although some schools will accept a TEFL or TESOL credential for certain roles 
• 1-2 years of teaching experience, although not every school requires this

The timeline for becoming a teacher can vary based on your existing qualifications. A bachelor’s degree typically takes 4 years to complete. For those who have a degree in a field other than education, programs like Moreland University’s 100% online TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program allow you to earn a U.S. teaching license in as little as 9 months.

Steps to Becoming a Teacher in South Korea 

No matter where in the world you go, a U.S. teaching license is a highly respected credential for educators. That’s why we recommend that international educators earn their U.S. teaching certification so that they can enjoy more professional opportunities and have earning potential. TEACH-NOW is fully accredited and entirely online, making it possible to earn your license from anywhere. 

For international educators and other people who want to teach outside of the U.S., pursuing licensure through Washington, D.C., provides the most straightforward certification pathway. Follow these steps to earn a D.C. teaching license and begin your journey toward teaching in South Korea:

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree  

A bachelor’s degree is the first and most fundamental requirement for teaching in South Korea, especially because it is usually the most time-consuming part of the process. If you already have a degree but it is not in education, you can still pursue a teaching career by completing an approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP). 

Step 2: Complete an Educator Preparation Program (EPP)  

Enrolling in and completing an EPP, such as our 100% online TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program, will equip you with the essential teaching skills and pedagogical knowledge needed to lead a classroom. The program can be completed in just 9 months and includes hands-on clinical learning (student teaching). Because it’s free to apply and candidates have the option to make interest-free monthly payments, this is an accessible and affordable option for educators. 

Step 3: Complete Your Clinical Learning 

Hands-on classroom experience is a major part of teacher preparation. Clinical practice allows you to apply your knowledge in a real-world setting and become comfortable with classroom dynamics. This experience is built into TEACH-NOW program and, if you’re already teaching, it can often be completed in your current classroom. For aspiring teachers, we provide support to help you find a qualifying placement. 

Step 4: Pass the Required Praxis Exams  

To earn licensure through Washington, D.C., you must pass the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators test for general knowledge, the Praxis Subject Assessment for your specific content area, and the Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) test for the grade level you want to teach. 

Step 5: Submit Fingerprints and Pass a Background Check  

Every applicant seeking teacher licensure through Washington, D.C., must pass a comprehensive background check and submit fingerprints. You can complete this step from outside the United States. 

Step 6: Submit Your Licensure Application 

After completing the previous steps, you can submit your application for teacher certification to Washington, D.C.’s Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE). Your application packet should include all necessary documents, such as official transcripts, Praxis test scores, and verification that you have completed your EPP. 

In addition to these steps, you will need to secure a work visa, find job opportunities, arrange for housing, and complete any other steps required by the South Korean government and your employer to ensure a smooth transition to life in one of the world’s most culturally rich countries. 

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Can You Become a Teacher in South Korea Without a Teaching Degree?  

Yes, it is possible to teach in South Korea without a degree specifically in education. Many international schools and language academies will hire individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in any subject, especially if they also have a recognized teaching license. 

Completing a teacher preparation program like TEACH-NOW significantly enhances your job prospects in South Korea and other countries outside of the U.S. because, in addition to being a valuable credential, it also improves your potential salary and the types of schools you can work with. 

Moreland University Supports Teachers in South Korea 

Teaching in South Korea can be a profoundly rewarding adventure that advances your career while giving you plenty of chances for meaningful cultural exchange and personal growth. By earning a U.S. teaching license, you can position yourself as a highly qualified candidate for schools throughout the country. 

Start the next chapter of your teaching journey today. It takes less than 15 minutes to complete your free TEACH-NOW application. Once you begin your coursework, you could be just 9 months away from making a meaningful impact in a classroom abroad.