Why You SHOULDN'T Teach English in South Korea ...

[@skycedi]

Let me know your thoughts! Do you agree with these reasons? Why or why not? 🤔👇🏽

[@HARRIETHHONORATHMBUNDA]

Well @Skycedi you're so right these reasons also apply to other jobs too. People you should learn to love and respect the job and also it's culture i guess they should set their mind to it

[@JamConcerned]

Definitely agree, I wonder why this isn't addressed before at the initial interview. A KZbinr was complaining that they were late and it was a big deal. Of course it's a big deal you are a teacher and set an example. It's a shame they wait until orientation before they find out.

[@pingaco2002]

skycedi loved your reasons. I have a off topic question though. Would you recommend people trying recruitment agencies if they are looking to Teach in South Korea?

[@lifeinkor1687]

I loved you video!

[@artcurious807]

Taught English in Korea it’s a mess. Korea sees English as a way to get rich not as a means to understand another culture. So in America you might take Spanish, French, or even Chinese because you want to travel someday. But in Korea it’s all about the exams. And as a native English speaker I have no idea how to teach English for exams nor do I want to. Another problem is private English academies are notoriously corrupt. I taught at You and I(also PDI English ) and my Hogwan owner beat her daughter almost every week for two years. It’s not cultural it’s crazy. There are many BlackList stories on the internet also about Hogwans that steal paychecks and make threats to foreign teachers. On the plus side, if you somehow manage to find a good teaching job then the best place for an English teacher is 9-12 year olds and university level conversational English. These two areas are best because elementary kids are not too stressed out and university students are finished with most exams and are exploring travel and people not just money and success.

[@JoshMiner21]

When I was in highschool, I used to say to myself "Who would want to become a teacher?". Few years later, becoming a teacher is a goal for me and making sure the next generation is well taught.

[@MuhammadAliGOAT]

I was exactly the same.. now I AM A TEACHER. WTF

[@animationlover2944]

@@MuhammadAliGOAT I wasn't the same like you two, but now I am lol

[@MuhammadAliGOAT]

@@animationlover2944 huh. you mean you always wanted to be one?

[@animationlover2944]

@@MuhammadAliGOAT not at first but now I do

[@MuhammadAliGOAT]

@@animationlover2944 thats positive vibes! what age range do you teach?

[@KoreanAlex]

It is so weird how many teachers I've met here who hate dealing with kids, hate trying new food, hate learning new languages, etc. Man, if that's the case, and they think they want to teach here, they don't have the common sense to teach... anywhere.

[@kristiejaynes7042]

미국친구 Michin Alex Morning

[@skycedi]

Totally agreed man. Very well put

[@yumiko0017]

Wow and it’s sad people like that take up valuable space for those who deserve to be here.

[@TheRealIG]

I think most of them just hate being broke foreigners. Teaching english in korea is such shitty pay its a pretty big waste of potential and you are nothing more than a disposable resource. You are just expected to be foreign entertainer for the kids. Not a real teacher. If you wanna be a real teacher teach in america for 3x the pay and more vacation time. Teaching in Korea is a chumps game. Thats why everybody leaves after their first year if not sooner

[@yumiko0017]

Stranded In Korea 3x the pay in the US?! Teachers are struggling in the US, they have shitty pay and shitty working conditions. Some of them leave and go out if the country.

[@amandarodriguez1755]

I’m honestly so conflicted on what to do, I want to teach in Korea. But I’m afraid of messing up and whatnot. I love learning about new cultures, I’m very curious, and open minded. But Korean’s intimidate me a bit, I still want to teach, but it’s hard to make up my mind. I’m a senior in high school so I have to decide soon. :(

[@dainalizfeliberty5158]

Hey girl! I understand what you mean. I also wanted to teach in Korea since I was in high school, however, I decided to attend university, earn my degree and then go to Korea. It is better to go to university first (one of the requirements to work as a teacher in Korea is to have a bachelor's degree in anything *unless you join a program where you can work without a degree) and then work in Korea. When you go to university you learn to be more independent, you gain more experience and therefore you'll become mature enough to make important decisions. Don't rush into things. Sometimes we want something and rapidly make decisions without thinking if we're actually prepared to carry on with the responsibilities it comes with OR without thinking if we are prepared to make such a life changing choice.

[@amandarodriguez1755]

Dainaliz Feliberty Thank you love! I’m for sure going to university first. But I just can’t seem to find passion on anything else besides learning languages and I’m almost certain that this is what I want to do. But I’m not sure it’s what I should do, thank you so much. I needed to hear this. Xxx

[@dainalizfeliberty5158]

@@amandarodriguez1755 Anytime! I relate to you 100%. That's why I'm an English major because I couldn't find anything else that fulfilled that desire of learning new languages etc. You'll do awesome in whatever you decide to do. Be wise with your decisions- they will determine your future. 화이팅! Blessings 💙💫

[@amandarodriguez1755]

Dainaliz Feliberty 감사합니다! ☺️

[@beyourself7651]

@@amandarodriguez1755 Exactly my situation

[@mikainkorea]

Although all points should go without saying.. it is good, that you are pointing them out! And everybody who wants to work in Korea, especially as a teacher, should take your 5 points to their heart! Too many times I heard that foreign teachers even hate children (some of them don't even make it a secret on social media) and as a parent I would be really angry if I find out that somebody is just teaching them without soul and because of the money. GREAT video, Cedric, I hope it get's the attention it deserves!

[@skycedi]

미카인코리아 Mika in Korea yes, it’s a sad reality that there are some teachers here who do not really care about the well being of the students. Thanks for the comment and I hope this video gets in front of the right people :)

[@01mail19]

you just described most teachers lol

[@too2great8]

I love that Korean culture values education so much. I've lived in America my entire life and seeing the degradation of the educational system is heartbreaking. I used to work for a special educational school and it was awful how it was set up and the day to day innerworkings. It's great that you did this because it gives people a realistic viewpoint.

[@kkarst3]

Have you been there? I wish you could see all of it.

[@MrSister127]

Korea has the highest level of teenage suicide in the world, it's less of valuing education and more of obsessing over it, to the point where children regularly kill themselves over it

[@too2great8]

@@MrSister127 I just became aware of this recently. I haven't watched the documentary yet, but I will.

[@Alias1983]

They value education? Funny. Because they aren't educated on the reality that diversity is our strength. If they were properly educated, they'd welcome us as immigrants. Not keep us at arm's length. See us as outsiders no matter how long we've been there. You get into a legal battle in the courts with a local person and you are 99% guaranteed to lose. Because of their racial pride. They value education, but they don't teach their kids that all humans are equal and race is just a social construct.

[@jefflevenhagen]

One time in Korea I called in sick and got a note from the doctor, my school required a sick note from a doctor even if I only missed one day of work. I accidentally had the doctor sign the wrong piece of paper, actually the doctor picked the piece of paper he signed. My co-teacher got mad at me and yelled at me in front of other teachers, I just took it because I can handle getting yelled at, then I told her I had the doctor sign paperwork and I didn't know it was the wrong paperwork. She said that she told me and showed me what needed to be signed when I started, a few months before, but it was all in korean and I forgot what it looked like. I told her I can get the correct piece of paperwork signed after school. She freaked out for no good reason and I told her right away I'd fix it but she kept going on about it afterwards and I asked her why because I had already apologized and said I'd fix it right after work. I didn't mind dealing with that but some people might have a hard time.... Remember, you are the foreigner and you will make mistakes. Just try to ask questions and do your best. Some Koreans you work with might give you a hard time but Koreans in public are very nice and they understand that you're a foreigner.

[@rosajackson3663]

Very valid points! Too many come for the compensation - not being able to find jobs in their countries. Teaching kids is a REAL profession worldwide, please don't consider applying for any other reasons. Cedi, excellent content!

[@skycedi]

Yes, agreed! Thanks for sharing

[@theshadysunshine]

There's nothing wrong with people looking for a better livelihood for themselves. I completely agree with all the points made in the video but to say you shouldn't do it for compensation is unreasonable.

[@sagepark7193]

Yep, great points. Native English teacher in Korea is a real job. That's why you get paid and receive perks like a real job. It's not the hardest job in the world, but like any other real jobs, you'll eventually struggle if you don't treat it like a real job. Another point I want to add is that you shouldn't come to live in Korea if you're expecting all Koreans to treat you the "right" way. Although, I believe Koreans are very hospitable more times than not. You can run into worse kinds of humanity just like anywhere in the world. Racists, sexists, different types of criminals....You name it and the chance is that Korea has them too. Only difference may be that they speak in Korean and luckily have no gun in their pocket. If you want to travel around the world, you must prepare yourself to see both good and the bad. Also, it really helps if you learn to let some things go and not affect you too much.

[@skycedi]

Sage, I couldn’t agree with you more. Very good point and that’s something a lot of foreigners who move to Korea NEED to hear and understand.

[@sthompson62]

"Why.. shouldn't teach English in Korea"-on point, very good advice.

[@MiKole86]

I shouldn't have came here to teach! Haha...I'm joking. Seriously though, too many people come here thinking they're on a vacation or they want to extend the party days of their life. The experience is only what you make of it.

[@skycedi]

Very well put man! A little balance is better than any extreme

[@2pielove]

What’s it like being a person of color there?

[@aeolia80]

I know many have done these kinds of videos, but this one actually touches on legitimate reasons whey a person shouldn't come to Korea to teach. Good job on touching on the hierarchal system here. It can put a person in a lot of hot water if they don't know about it. Though it's also one of those things that's not always talked about with recruters and stuff. The note on patience is a big one too. I knew a teacher that came out here that because she was already a licenced teacher back in the States, she was expecting everything to be exactly how she was used to in the classroom, and would get really frustrated when she wasn't allowed to do that, which also ties into the hierarchal system too. With work environment type stuff, like the social clubs and what not, I'd say accommodate it for at least the first 2 years if you're here that long, or if you've changed schools or if the admin has changed drastically, especially if they invite you to stuff. After a while, if you feel like it's not your thing, especially if they for a long long time spring things on you (Korean surprise!!!) like dinners you have to go to and such, it's totally fine to say you have other plans and not go, or not play volleyball if it's not your thing (or if you got injured too much playing volleyball, lol, this one is me), but the work environment here thrives on socializing in groups, so make an effort to participate. And one about those that think Korea will be your base for travel while making money on the side, uh uh, no way, get that out of your head. All the people that I know that came here for that were depressed until their next travel fix, and they never saw Korea as a true home-base. In the timeline of a year here, the first 3 months will be interesting, like a honeymoon phase, then at the 6 month mark, things start to feel really stressful and things are weighing on you, and you'll really want to go home. I think this is the same for most people that move away from their home countries, not just moving to Korea. But at least EPIK has a system set up in the contract with monetary benefits and punishments (if you would) to deter people from leaving at the 6 month mark, such as not receiving all of your entrance allowance till after you reached a full and completed contract or more seriously of not letting you return as an EPIK teacher (depending on the circumstance). But many people that finish their first year here find that they actually really like it here, and renew for a 2nd, or 3rd, or even a 6th + year, and depending on the area you are in, they give incentives for renewing, like 5 extra days vacation and a renewal bonus, which is really nice for those that would like to have Korea as a base for traveling around Asia but are ok with the work load here ( as he said, it's still a normal job, not a vacation, lol) And this one may get me in hot water......If you are a type that some people would consider to be a "Korea-boo", um,.......it's totally fine to be into Kpop and Kdramas and K-Characters and such, I know plenty that are like that that adjusted fine here, and really love it here, and have Korean friends, and are mastering the language, this is not the person I'm speaking about. I mean those that inappropriately idolize things in Modern Korean culture without understanding anything about their past, the actual culture, how people live here, the food they eat, the hierarchal systems of respect here, not understanding that people here are real people just like in your home country, that you don't need to mimic how they look (I'll admit living in Korea as long as I have my sense of fashion has changed a little to reflect Korean fashion and because of what clothes are available for me to buy, but it's not the same thing, it's more because I live here and it feels more appropriate to wear certain Korean fashion sense over North American fashion sense, this isn't whatt I'm talking about). If you feel you fit in this catagory, get this in check before coming over, or people, especially the locals, will think you're ridiculous. Good job Cedrick on this video! I hope Dajeon is treating you well

[@dramalllama1719]

Thank you for taking the time to type this out! I found it really informative 😊🙏🏻

[@davidball3329]

One of our teachers initially came to party.. she almost blew the experience, but managed to get it together and did a complete 360. She ended up staying 3 years and became one of the best teachers we've placed. She became head teacher, studied Korean, made tons of friends and paid off her university. She could have used your video first though lol

[@sprintbuc]

I've been teaching in Korea going on 5 years now and I don't regret it. Every school I've worked for (going on my 7th now) has been very welcoming in general and none of the kids I have taught have been outright rude or hostile towards me (unlike students I taught back home). One point I could add is take this teaching experience with a grain of salt. If its your first time teaching don't think that your experience here will be the same when you go home, you could be in for a rude awakening.

[@honeyeyesdiaries]

Hi am from india i need to know more about South Korean English teaching and if your ther its very helpful to get more about thatsk... Please your Instagram id or please do message to @honey_quee

[@sprintbuc]

@@honeyeyesdiaries sorry I don't have an Instragram. If you have questions you should consult the EPIK website (English Program in Korea) as they will be the ones hiring you. I do know that if you are currently living in India and want to teach English in Korea you must have an English teaching degree before you will be considered for hire. Just fluency will not work, you must be a certified English teacher.

[@yawnzxie]

how did you get started? i’m about to graduate high school and it’s my dream to move to korea and be an english teacher, i’ve had decent grades and everything i just have no idea on how to get started

[@Anababyyy16]

I love how important education is in South Korea. I'm currently teaching in the states, and it stinks. :( I cannot wait to apply to EPIK in January. It will be such a good change (in my opinion) to my life. Thanks for sharing this! I know so many people who say they want to apply, just for a good time, and it's like its a JOB.

[@JasminMarie]

I LOVE how thorough and straightforward u were about the main factors to consider moving to S. Korea and becoming a foreign teacher. Ppl in this predicament NEED to watch this video!!!

[@skycedi]

Thank you and I’m hoping the right people will see this video~

[@Seabearbrenz]

This really helped motivate me! I’ve been really thinking about ESL teaching in South Korea/Japan since I was 19 (I’m 24 now) and Ive decided to do a lil more research into it and I can happily say I am none of things you listed and feel more confident in my aspirations! Thank you 😊

[@jannahyoona801]

I wanted to say thank you for this video I wish to teach in Korea or Japan. I know the work load will be hard but I wanted the challenge to explore something new. I will remember your tips I love children and I have passionate. I am interest in learning new things.

[@skycedi]

I’m glad this video is helpful. And I hope you get the opportunity to teach abroad~

[@alucianelson175]

Found your video incredibly informative, points touched on were new & i hadn't actually heard mentioned anywhere else. Was definitely drawn in by your title for the vid. Thank you 😉 👍🏼

[@justinboyd8383]

I spent 4 years in Korea, mostly near Seoul, as Air Force and it was amazing. The people are so friendly and there is plenty to do besides party. I met a lot of English teachers and they give similar reviews as this guy. The one I met that struggled the most said “this isn’t a real job.” The ones that treated it as a real job usually loved it. The pay isn’t great but you get free housing and I’m pretty sure are eligible for Korean health insurance after 6 months.

[@grantmerry573]

You're the best man! So encouraging! My thoughts on your video... I definitely agree! I went this summer and it is definitely a night and day culture from America, as far as the hierarchy. There are some odd cases where an elderly guy will give up his seat on a busy train for you but typically yeah, age is king. I do not know how you do it, but somehow your reasons of why not to be a teacher in Korea only make me want to be a teacher more! Thank you! Keep producing your videos man. Good stuff.

[@skycedi]

I appreciate the kind words and I'm glad these vids are adding value in some way!

[@joanko6867]

I love that you also included a counter video about "10 reasons why you SHOULD work in Korea" which makes me feel like you have a very balanced opinion about teaching in Korea. I feel like many youtubers will make a video about what they don't like about Korea and comes off very complain-y. But yours feels like you're sincerely looking out for us and I appreciate that!

[@beconfident7654]

great points.. In the past, some foreign teachers got caught doing illegal drugs and using fake diploma to get the teaching job in Korea. Now the education board is requiring more documents from hospital, FBI, school (from your country) to check you. Some are not taking the job seriously, so many school and academy managers are being shrewd to filter out the unqualified candidates after they experienced bad ones. Having no family in the country would make anyone feel like they are traveling and have fun, but young people need to understand that people take education seriously here. It requires many years of failure to learn the things that Cedi mentioned here. Care for the students to succeed and improve their English. Spend time and effort to develop and maintain relationship with students and genuinely care for them. Then there will be growth and positive changes! Korea needs skilled and dedicated teachers who will do this for a long time.

[@zephyrkhambatta]

That helps mate, thanks! Not just for Korea but I think for all teaching jobs!

[@eunie5561]

I absolutely agree as a korean. Well explained about korean culture. Thanks.

[@NativeMoon]

I’m sharing this with a few folks back home in the States who have been driving me up a wall. They are precisely the kind of people who talk about becoming teachers in South Korea for all the wrong reasons which you cover very well. What it boils down to is that they only really care about getting to live out their fantasy of what they think Korea is as opposed to a truly immersive educational and cultural experience. It’s fine that they love K-pop and K-dramas ... but I honestly believe that teaching is a vocation and no one should go into it if they are not 100% committed to their students and the job. I think it shows if the interest isn’t really there and that’s unfair to the teachers who genuinely are as well as the students. Teaching should be a lot more than “what you have to put up with doing just to be able to live in Korea” ... (yes, someone actually said that to me)

[@skycedi]

YES, 100% agreed with all of your points. I hope that the people who plan on coming for the wrong reasons will think twice or at least change their perspectives. It’s only fair to the students and the teachers who devote their professional and academic lives to teaching and learning.

[@randyharris5195]

Bingo! I've been around the world and seen many cultures. I share with others the proverb "When in Rome, do as the Romans do!" I've learned to observe the behavior of different cultures and learn to adapt. This will demonstrate the respect you have for someone's culture and help with that sense of isolation. I spent a month living with a family in Hanoi. I often found myself the only white boy in a sea of Asians, but because of my adaption attitude, I never felt isolated.

[@phav1832]

Great job . . . it's a backhanded way of articulating why someone WOULD want to teach in Korea.

[@rob9386]

Awesome video! I completely agree with you.

[@TimeTraveller010]

I am over the fifty mark, it's considered old by South Korean standards, nonetheless it's just a number. I taught in South Korea for two years in two different phases of experiential enlightenment. The first phase was as 'non-teacher', in which case I taught in Hakwons. The second phase was as a fully trained and educated teacher, at this juncture I returned to South Korea in 2012. In the first phase I couldn't adapt to a new culture, it was so hard I got myself in trouble a couple of times. Sometimes I look back and think I was an idiot, yes I am a self-deprecating westerner. However, I never thought of myself as 'better than the next South Korean person'. (I think they're wonderful people!) Second phase as returned qualified teacher. I did very well but fucked up severely on one issue. Don't enter a country if you don't like it, or make insulting remarks to individuals online. Irrespectively, I miss South Korean food, the culture, Koreans dress sense, their way of life, yes-beautiful women, a sense of being part of a culture that is 'the future'. The internet is open to everyone, South Korea is an open democratic nation. My tip, respect their politics and don't interfere with it, it's not your country. I learned the hard way. No I am not banned from entering, it would be difficult to enter at 56. South Koreans prefer youth over a used old man...ha ha South Korea taught me this: If it ain't broke leave it alone, or leave it for other's to fix it if it ain't yours. I would easily recommend teaching in South Korea! There's great live music to be experienced, cool people, addictive Kimchi varieties, beautiful scenery if you have time to visit the countryside, interesting people from the U.S (I don't mean civies or military personnel) Stay away from them and you will be fine. I'm from Australia if your curiosity is aroused, now teaching in China. Go to South Korea, keep opinions of South Korea to yourself, if necessary get a VPN. Best wishes to you all!

[@RenCurrymusicalseoul]

Let them know Cedi! So many times I run into people who are shocked by how much work they do and they are in EPIK! EPIK is probably the lightest workload of any public school system in Korea. Sometimes I really miss all that deskwarming time, but my vacation makes up for it. I'm already mentally ready for vacation lol. I just want to head to Hong Kong Disney then come back and rest for a good 3 weeks~ ^^

[@okazay]

I HATE deskwarming xD but it is definitely nice to have vacation time compared to when i worked at a hagwon

[@RenCurrymusicalseoul]

@@okazay I did most of my Master's program thanks to deskwarming. I definitely miss that down time while being paid. It made me be more productive towards other goals. If I had that now, I would totally use the time to edit videos lol. I was able to do so much. The other foreign teacher would shop and the Korean one's would also be looking at diet stuff or random things. Only the supervisor seem to do a little work during those times, but not much. It was a nice gig and I had the chance to present at 2 seminars, so that was neat. My vacation at my current school is just so fabulous. I don't really want to leave, but in a few years I will due to big plans. This winter 3 weeks and 4 days. Summer was nearly 2 weeks. The previous summer was 3 weeks due to construction and boy was that nice.

[@okazay]

@@RenCurrymusicalseoul That's awesome! Ive been thinking about going back to get my Master's but I'm apprehensive about doing anything online. If you don't mind, which university did you get your master's from? And what did you study?

[@RenCurrymusicalseoul]

@@okazay I got a Master's in Teaching from Kaplan University. Definitely a lot of work and being able to print articles and such at work was a big win for me.

[@okazay]

@@RenCurrymusicalseoul Thanks!

[@jovy55101]

I am currently getting my degree in childhood education. And I’ve been really considering teaching in Korea after I graduate. Thank you for these points!

[@morichavez9304]

omg, how’s it going now!?

[@AnaValentin574]

I loved this video! While Im not in Korea yet I can attest to this idea that a lot of people have about it being a party year or a year to just let your hair lose. I think theres a misconception about what it means to be a NET and in reality what it means to be a teacher. And I know its not 100% the same as teaching here in the states: There's not data collection and portfolios to create, no paperwork that needs to constantly be filled out and theres less pressure as a whole on the NET because theyre a foreigner in Korea; its still a job that require a lot more time and effort when it comes to preparation and creating engagement than I think nonteachers realize.

[@skycedi]

Totally agreed!

[@Theremomo]

맞아요 어느 나라나 선생님이 갖춰야 될 덕목이라는 게 분명히 있는 것 같아요. 정말 하나부터 열까지 고개가 끄덕여지는 말만 해주시네요. 좋은 영상 고맙습니다 :)

[@bluewaffles8648]

If I went to Korea as an English teacher and lived there for a while and became fluent, can I find another occupation to pursue and will I still be able to live there if I did.

[@deepz1994]

Yeah ! Evn I hav d same doubt 🤔

[@choppersapprentice9366]

“in the states you might have a best friend that’s 20 years older than you” sent me through the ROOOOF, but on a serious note I’m currently really interested in jobs in foreign countries, and an English teacher seems like one of the best options atm, but I’m so scared of making the wrong choice and not being able to fit in the new society ;(

[@Lexi-nc7tn]

Hi I'm Lexi and I am 13 ever since I was 10 I’ve wanted to teach people English not just in Korean but around the world! I love the Korean culture and I'm right now a beginner of the Korean language, therefore I think I will be perfectly suited to the job as an English teacher in Korea!

[@heartdonations2532]

Hello, I spent 3 years teaching elementary, middle, high school and Korean teachers in Ulsan. As a black man, I certainly had my reservations about it. The first year was tough due to the feelings of isolation but by my 2nd year it was super! When I look back, my funniest experiences were with the older Koreans! When soju is involved, people really open up (haha).They kept me cracking up. I will miss my time there and all the great friends I met.

[@Lee1Min-Ji]

This was great! I have been teaching English for a long time and am considering trying Teach Away. This gave me much to think about!

[@MrJmanguera]

Hello! I read somewhere that there's a certain level of "discrimination" against applicants who aren't caucasian. Is there any truth to this? I mean a lot of Americans aren't caucasian but can obviously teach let alone speak english very well.

[@skycedi]

Yes, unfortunately this discrimination still exists - mostly in the private school recruitment (not Public - I.e. EPIK). Since private schools are run independently, there are still some that prefer to hire only white Americans (it’s in their job postings). But I don’t think it represents the majority.

[@MrJmanguera]

@@skycedi oh I see. Will having some experience teaching through the EPIK program, let's say a year or 2 (or more) make you qualified to teach in private schools? Or will there still be discrimination even if you have credentials and teaching experience in Korea?

[@sashaanderson4347]

This was very informative and helpful. Thank you!

[@ashleysleepyy]

I looked at the pros and con's. As someone in college trying to get a bachelors degree in education. Teaching isn't all the joy and wonder but you help students and at the end of the day. I couldn't care about the hours or the endless papers I have to grade. As long as I'm not like the teachers who made me feel stupid I'm happy with that. I want each child in my class to feel welcome and to feel safe. I am here for them and supporting them through there journey. If you think getting nice pay without putting any effort or soul into teaching those kids is ridiculous. I get funny looks because that's what I want to do. I want to inspire and teach children regardless of what country its in.

[@HTJournals]

I agree!

[@Tyleranthonyrobey]

can you make a video of everything you need to do to get started on this career path? my oma adopted me when i was 7 and i am very used to korean culture and the different levels of respect required in korea versus america. this is something ive been very interested in but i dont know where to get started

[@londym.]

Great video thank you. 🥰👌

[@gbk9224]

역시 선생님이십니다. 좋은 영상 👍 😎

[@pinayenglishteacher]

For a lot of us ESL teachers, it isn't necessary to travel to Korea to teach there as online ESL teaching has been quite popular since the early 2000. Thanks for sharing this!

[@donnadequire-rios3531]

Thumbs up. Great idea for a video. Great video

[@watarikeito]

Good points. Same in Japan. Many people are surprised at how much work you have to put in. Thats why most people leave after a year

[@sinethembathethwayo122]

This was very informative thank you ❤️

[@kaparky7509]

I noticed what you said about Korean work culture and hierarchy in their manhwas (korean comics). Sometimes even if the boss has a very friendly relation with one of his workers, the worker still adresses his boss very formally. And because I read a lot of manhwas, I started doing this unconsciously in my country. My boss is so friendly with us, jokes with us all the time and adresses us informally. My colleagues also adress him informally and call him by his first name. But I'm still so formal with him. So from this side, I'm kind of ready to work in Korea. 😅

[@zf4076]

I completely agree with your points, they are very valid points.

[@latinaenasia]

I agree with you. Actually no everyone can be a teacher. Greetings from a Peruvian who teach Chinese 😊

[@ChzPepperoni]

This is coming from a Korean, so don't go, "oh, like you know beep." Korea is wonderful, but most of people are only seeing the side of the rich and much more advanced city structures. I'm happy you want to try out new things in korea such as food, the language, and culture. I do recommend teaching the students english because from experience, those teachers who pretend to be know it all... they don't know beep. Koreans learning from an actual english speaking human is a great way to teach them the proper ways on grammer and pronounciation. Korea's elementary schools should be your first choice, and let me tell you, they will hire you immediatly because of your background, just have a proper scholarship. Although this is a complaint, do not expect every korean likes or has to like kpop, it is frusturating to hear from everyone you've met, and I'm not the only one. The food in korea is much different to other places, It's more focused on healthy steaming spicy food with a lot of vegetables. The language is similar to english, although the problem both sides have is the grammer. The grammer in english is flipped, hard to give a proper example. Culture wise, there isn't much, Korea existed much longer than America or Europe, but we started writing down our history from a late period. Just don't expect Koreans and Japanese to get along well. There is a lot of things I want to talk about, but It'll take too much time, If you actually see this and have any questions, I'm here.

[@dramalllama1719]

Thank you for taking the time to inform us! 😊

[@ChzPepperoni]

@@florence1785 Yes, you can, but they would mainly test you through your English skills during the interview. They will mainly focus on your ability to teach and your experience.

[@shiyelia]

All your points are valid!

[@sumahnamatovu2642]

Thank you❤

[@alil8270]

These points can be applied to the teaching profession in general too. As a teacher, I do wish more people watched this video, regardless what subject they teach.

[@daniellejayreyes9020]

I want to teach in korea but now I'm scared 😂

[@manuelamezcua6550]

I’m soo happy I found this video Im starting the journey it was really helpful thanks man I’ll keep these tips in mind

[@ibiza09putitthisway]

Thank you so much for this video! It’s really helpful. I think I’m going to take the plunge!

[@santaclause4285]

HI! I TEACH IN Korea and only teach 9 hours a week and get 6 months paid vacation...read my experience and itwill change your life!

[@ibiza09putitthisway]

santa Clause where can i read? Link?

[@santaclause4285]

Just go to my page and read My story

[@kennethhwang3001]

As soon as I saw the title of this video, I thought “maybe bad aspects for being an English teacher in Korea. Ok let’s have a look”. But I was wrong. It’s like how to be a nice teacher in Korea. I can feel that you respect Korean people, Korean culture, and you really want to be a nice teacher who want to communicate these feelings with people in the world. Thank you as a Korean

[@melissah170]

Excellent video, thank you.

[@nabie981]

Some great points!

[@meryamle6270]

Do I have a chance to teach English in Korea even if i'm not a native speaker ? My English is good though.

[@CGLeighCG]

If you're not from the US, UK, Ireland, Canada, South Africa, Australia, or New Zealand, then your chances of teaching English in Korea are low. But if you're from a non-English speaking country and have been taught only in English from 7th grade (junior high/middle school) and onward and have graduated with a Bachelor degree from one of the 7 countries listed above, then you have a shot.

[@aeolia80]

You have to be a citizen of the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, UK, and Ireland to at least participate in the EPIK programme. Though there are some hagwons/academies that will hire people from Singapore, Philipinnes, India, and some other countries where English is an official language, but that's still rare (unfortunately for some certain prejiduce reasons). They want native speakers for the most part, meaning.. sound extremely fluent. The title they give these teachers is 원어민선생님 weoneomin seonsangnim, I think the literal translation is foreign language teacher, but, and I say a big but here, they translate it as native speaking teacher, not foreign language teacher. But if you're a citizen from one of the participating countries, at least for EPIK, by all means, apply! They can't count that against you. If you're not a native speaker, they will want to know your TOEFL score though if you had to take it for university. The rest would be decided in your interview. If the interviewer feels that your English is good enough, hopefully you'll be fine.

[@iGeekozoid]

If you're white, look into China. Many schools will hire people to teach English even if they don't speak English just to show off they have a white foreigner teaching.

[@star9677]

Love this content! It makes people really think what they are getting into when they come to teach in our country😊

[@skycedi]

Jieun Yoon I hope teachers come to Korea with the right attitude! Thank you for watching :)

[@emregoren9827]

Hey! I'm an English Teacher from Turkey. I want to work in Korea. But I don't know how to make it come true. I would be grateful for any recommendation.

[@jackmitchell-camp5002]

This video was great! Exactly what I needed and I didn't expect this when i watched it

[@hoodieboy1515]

Subscribed in 2020! Les go! Currently debating if I should do South Korea or ECC in Japan :)

[@Healingmyoung]

좋은영상 고마워요. 동의합니다. 아이들이 존경할 수 있는 선생님을 원해요.

[@콩나물-b9l]

Really glad to see a great teacher like you is in South Korea. Love you teacher!

[@philipthompson6906]

Fantastic video and you are so articulate and impressive my dude and I am loving your videos! Keep making them. Thank you thank you thank you. One comment that I am sure you thought about ... I would retitle the video "YOU SHOULDN'T in SOUTH KOREA IF...." to avoid negativity and pushing people away. but I could be missing something here .. and I am sure you had your reasons for naming it that.

[@timrox5626]

How affordable it is to live there or support a family on a teachers salary? Were you ever offered any housing allowences?

[@nativenickenglish43]

Cool channel man

[@jackielolli3488]

Another great video👏🏼✌🏻

[@esviivse]

I’m currently getting my TEFL certification and planning on trying to find a position somewhere in S Korea. I’ve watched so many videos on here where the person is complaining about the work hours. At first I was worried that it was a weird system then I had the realization that most of them came fresh out of college and never held a 9-5. Hopefully being 30, I’ll adjust a little better since I know a job is a job… Thanks for these!

[@몰리-s9h]

아주 훌륭한 동영상입니다 전 학원수학강사하다가 지금 초등학교수학쌤인데 원어민영어쌤중 자질부족ㅜㅜ 한국에서 교육이 얼마나 중요한지 모르는ㅜㅜ 여행이나 놀러오는곳 아니예요 애들을 사랑하고 가르치기 위해 오는 곳입니다 여행하고 놀려는분 오지마세요

[@cuangao1]

Very informative

[@masukamagambo4236]

Another great insightful video.

[@bocachanclaa8055]

One question. If you aren’t native from any English country but you have American blood or you talk an excellent English, can you still teach there?

[@himimisi]

I am a non-native english speaker from Turkey and I really want to become an English teacher abroad. I don't think I'll have a problem in adapting and I also don't have a problem with children. I am currently studying ELT at university and I want to have my certificates in the future such as CELTA and TESOL. I hope I can achieve my dreams one day. I will remember this video and comeback one day. Thank you for the info!

[@에리-y7w]

Is worrying to me how this things are.. Linda obvious and people do not realize 😲 great video btw!

[@KachanTV]

Great video, very helpful :) I’m on exchange in korea right now and I’m considering teaching English in korea when I graduate next year!

[@Unclesmeal]

Thank you for your video and i am currently teaching students in s.korea. I dicided to give my students writing essay assignment with your video. I can see many replies here so it would be a good topic to discuss together.

[@deepz1994]

Hy hi !I m from India. Cud u plss suggest me abt TEFL jobs in South Korea as m really interested to do bt m less awared.So pls if u can den really it wud b a great help from u❤️

[@Unclesmeal]

@@deepz1994 in Korea, goverment allows Educational visa for foreingers only to 6 countries. and India is not included among them. or you should get a job illegally

[@deepz1994]

@@Unclesmeal ohh!alryt thank you 👍

[@sleeplessknight2260]

Came across this video while considering TEFL as a full time career, and it honestly just made me want to do it more, just because I heard all of your points and thought "Wait, none of these apply to me!". On the downside, it does mean that my biology and wildlife science degree is going to be useless... Anyways, now I just have to decide which country I want to teach in first, between Japan, Korea, or the Czech Republic.

[@nix2939]

"it does mean that my biology and wildlife science degree is going to be useless", I'm in a similar position as I'm studying Zoology. However, most TEFL internships require a degree of some sort, so neither are useless!

[@6rainbowSNETCH]

잘 봤어요 정말 좋은 영상입니다

[@catherinelempke8451]

Honestly great points; a lot of these apply to becoming an exchange student, as well.

[@marceling07]

>What's up bro, well I'm very interested in moving to South Korea. I grew up in the US since I was 13 years old. now I'm living in Brasil and I don't have any degrees, only a TEFL certificate to teach English in private schools and institutions, I've taught English for about 5 years in different countries such as the Dominican Republic, Brazil, and Chile. I'm Haitien and my country is visa-free to travel to South Korea. can you help and guide me, please.

[@sugartorch188]

Wow! this makes me think a lot and It really makes me excited!

[@freewithhan]

this video was great, I live in China at the moment and considering teaching in South Korea next year...I wonder what the similarities and differences between the two are 🤔

[@sweetsensation8500]

Great point Skycedi! The Epik program isn't for everyone and rather than to have misconceptions, it's better to know in advance what the program is like and all about. Hopefully ppl will take heed to advice from your videos so they'll get an idea of what to expect. Every encounter to each its own will be different, but definitely a learning experience for both the teacher and the student.

[@tiffanyt1993]

What about the roach problem 😟

[@hanas527]

I love listening to you! You are a great talker:) Also great advices 👍🏼

[@nicolenicole6325]

I want to gain experience, I’m relatively young (19 yrs) with a C2 in English and want to have my experience in Korea but don’t know how to actually start. Are there any recommendations? Sites I should refer to?

[@tinotendasandra8672]

I'm trying to work on my patience. As for reasons 3 and 4, it's probably going to take a bit of time. And reason 5, I've always had the desire of traveling, it just takes me a bit of some time to get used to and accept change.

[@skycedi]

I think it's amazing that you have the self-awareness to know yourself. And we all have different personalities and experiences that shape who we are, so there's nothing wrong with that :)

[@honeyeyesdiaries]

Can Indians teach English in korea is ther any chance or problem.. Becoming a teacher in korea? Pls rply!

[@thatperson4828]

I wouldn't mind teaching elementary school I am better with younger kids than middle and high school but idk if I can pick who I teach

[@sooyeonlee2304]

Cedi~~:) You always made a positive effect video. So, I always expect next and next video. Such a great explanation to people who want to know teaching job in Korea and honestly I agreed all of those reasons. Thanks to know you and have you in Korea now.

[@skycedi]

Thank you so much! I hope these videos are helpful to those who watch^^

[@Pineappletaco]

How long have you been teaching English in South Korea, and how long have you been teaching total.

[@토착왜구개자식들]

세드릭 잘하고 있어요 항상 응원하고 있습니다^^

[@skycedi]

네. 너무 너무 감사해요~ 😌

[@callmefany4152]

how about if ur native language r not english but u also wanna teach ? like i am from a country who don't speak english but may i teach anyway?

[@OkkkkOO366]

Is there any way that i can teach english in korea if I'm not a native english speaker???