South Korea is a popular teaching destination for qualified teachers interested in experiencing an authentic east Asian lifestyle.

This week we explore 5 ways to make the most of your South Korean teaching experience.

Immersing yourself in the culture

South Korea has a history that dates back thousands of years. Culture and religion make up the pillars of this historically agricultural society.

For centuries, the practice of large tight knit families has been instilled. This practice is closely tied to the concept of collectivism which is prominent throughout the various religions present in the South Korean culture.

The reason for the variety in religion is based on the South Korean notion to reach a fundamental Korean ideal whereby a sense of harmony and balance in everything is prioritised.

While you teach here we highly recommend immersing yourself in the various religions and practices such as Shamanism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Ch’usok, burial traditions and the many ways they honour the ancestors.

Experiencing the culture and history will give you a true understanding of the people and their way of life. If you are on a 3 to 4-year teaching contract this will aid you in navigating your way through a world very different to western culture.

We feel that the contrast is incredibly refreshing and believe you will too.

Language & people

Koreans have a strong identity ethnic identity which is closely linked to their language and culture. They speak one language and are extremely proud people which is evident in the many facets of their society.

Given this sense of pride it would be in your best interests to try to learn a few common phrases in modern Korean. Their sense of pride will leave them embarrassed if you speak to them in English and they are unable to respond appropriately. It’s important to meet them half way for a pleasant human interaction.

Korean people will often shake hands with expats following their traditional bow. This is one of the many ways they too are open to meeting foreigner’s half way in this simple gesture of blending cultures.

A custom when initiating your bow is to say "man-na-suh pan-gop-sumnida", which means "pleased to meet you." When leaving a social gathering, it is respectful to bow to each person in the company.

Getting to know the etiquette of the person who’s home or country you are visiting will make your experience extremely pleasant. One common form of courtesy is to remove your shoes when entering a temple or a Korean persons home.

If you do this Korean people will recognise that you mean well. It is importance to use the principle of charity as much as possible. This principle rests on the premise that although two strangers may be limited in communication both ‘mean well’ upon interaction.

Nightlife

The nightlife in South Korea is something any expat can look forward to. Although many bars and restaurants close at midnight there are many nightclubs specifically available for expats and foreigners.

There are a variety of nightclubs, rock cafes, bars, restaurants and karaoke bars for you to enjoy on your night out. You are also guaranteed to meet a friendly expat face or two in these places.

Holidays

If the busyness of the nightlife becomes overwhelming, remember that the South Korea have a landscape and culture waiting for you to explore.

Popular getaway locations are Ggotji beach, the Darangee village, the Gwang-An bridge, Kyeong-Wha Station, the Uleung island seaside road and more.

These destinations are diverse and beautiful giving you the perfect opportunity to make the most of an authentic South Korean experience.

Many international teaching jobs provide vacation and travel allowance for you to make the most of your South Korean experience.

Enjoying your savings

Given that you can earn between $2000 and $5000 per month, as well a contract completion bonus, and healthcare benefits the cost of living will most likely work in your favour.

Rental usually ranges from $170 to $425 per month and is location dependent. Your utilities bill will most likely be $59 which includes electricity, water, TV and gas. Internet connection is incredibly fast and reliable at an amount of $25 per month.

Your expenses should come to no more than $509 per month so saving is a bonus for you.

What to do with your savings? Well that’s entirely up to you.

You have a country with some of the most exotic food, exciting nightlife and beautiful people waiting for you to experience.

The culture is incredibly rich and the fact that you can save money will make your exploration of South Korea an unforgettable experience.