English hagwon in Korea refers to private language academies offering ESL jobs to native speakers. Discover their purpose, types, working conditions, and visa process for teachers.
🎯 What Is the Purpose of an English Hagwon?
An English hagwon in Korea is a private language academy designed to supplement students’ formal education. While public schools offer general English instruction, hagwons aim to improve students' English proficiency in more specialized or intensive ways. Korean parents often send their children to hagwons to enhance test scores, improve conversation skills, or gain a competitive edge in school admissions.
These institutions reflect Korea’s high educational standards and societal emphasis on academic achievement. For foreign ESL teachers, hagwons represent the majority of job opportunities, especially for first-time teachers. Most hagwons cater to elementary and middle school students, although some focus on adults or preschool-aged children.
🏫 Different Types of English Hagwons in Korea
There are several types of English hagwons, each with distinct teaching goals and student demographics:
- Conversation Hagwons: Focused on speaking and listening, often using role-play and daily dialogues.
- Test Prep Hagwons: Prepare students for exams like TOEFL, IELTS, or Korea’s CSAT (College Scholastic Ability Test).
- Kindergarten Hagwons: Also known as English immersion kindergartens, these cater to children aged 3–5 with full-day programs.
- Adult English Hagwons: Target working professionals looking to improve business or conversational English.
The atmosphere and curriculum vary by hagwon, as each is a private business. Some follow North American curricula, while others rely on in-house materials. Because hagwons are not government-regulated in the same way as public schools, the quality and management of these institutions can differ greatly.
💼 Working Conditions at an English Hagwon
Foreign teachers at English hagwons usually work Monday to Friday, with classes in the afternoon and evening, typically from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. A standard contract includes:
- Salary: ₩2.2 to ₩2.8 million KRW/month (~$1,700–$2,100 USD)
- Housing: Free apartment or housing allowance
- Vacation: Around 10 days per year (plus national holidays)
- Insurance: Health insurance and pension contributions (legally required)
- Airfare: Often includes a one-way or round-trip ticket
- Severance: One month’s salary after completing a one-year contract
Workload can vary: some teachers handle 6–7 teaching hours daily, with prep time in between. Class sizes are typically small (8–12 students), and teachers are expected to follow structured lesson plans.
While many hagwons are professional and supportive, others may have demanding expectations or inconsistent management. It’s crucial to research reviews or speak with current teachers before signing a contract.
👨🏫 Job Duties in a Korean English Hagwon
The role of a hagwon ESL teacher goes beyond just teaching. A typical day may include:
- Leading classes in reading, writing, speaking, and listening
- Correcting homework and grading tests
- Communicating with co-teachers or supervisors
- Writing student progress reports
- Participating in teacher meetings or training sessions
- Classroom management and discipline
Some hagwons require occasional weekend events (like open classes for parents), though most jobs follow a weekday-only schedule. Flexibility, energy, and strong classroom presence are key to success in this environment.
🛂 Visa and Hiring Process for Hagwon Teachers
To work at an English hagwon in Korea, you’ll need an E-2 visa, which is designated for native-speaking language instructors. Requirements include:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (in any subject)
- Clean national criminal background check
- Health check upon arrival in Korea
- TEFL/TESOL certificate (sometimes required but not always mandatory)
The hiring process typically involves:
- Submitting a resume and photo to a recruiter or school
- Online or phone interview
- Sending required documents (diploma, sealed transcripts, background check)
- Visa processing through the Korean consulate
- Flying to Korea and attending training or orientation
Most ESL teachers are hired 3–4 months in advance of their intended start date, so preparation is key.
An English hagwon in Korea can be a great starting point for ESL teachers who are new to international education. These private academies offer structured contracts, steady income, and the chance to immerse yourself in Korean culture. However, because hagwons vary in quality and management style, it’s important to research and choose your employer carefully. If you're adaptable, enthusiastic, and committed to student growth, a hagwon job could be your ideal gateway into Korea’s dynamic ESL field.