Private Schools (Hagwons) VS Public Schools (EPIK)

If you're thinking of teaching English in South Korea, you'll quickly come across two main options: working for a public school through the EPIK Program, or teaching at a hagwon—a private after-school academy. Both routes can get you a visa, provide housing, and offer a steady paycheck, but the daily reality of each job is quite different.

Hagwons tend to be fast-paced, business-driven, and based in urban areas, while EPIK jobs offer a more structured experience in public schools with a government-backed support system. Your choice will shape not only your work life, but also your schedule, social life, and day-to-day experience living in Korea.

📘 1. Understanding the Basics

At the core, EPIK and hagwons serve different roles in South Korea’s education system.

EPIK (English Program in Korea) is a government-run initiative that places foreign teachers in public schools across the country. These jobs are funded by local education offices, and teachers work alongside Korean co-teachers during regular school hours. The environment tends to be structured, stable, and rooted in national curriculum standards.

Hagwons, on the other hand, are private academies that operate more like businesses. Students attend hagwons after their regular school day for extra academic help, language immersion, or test prep. Teachers are hired directly by the school or through a recruiter, and success is measured by student progress and satisfaction, not public performance standards.

The key difference? EPIK jobs are government-funded and education-focused. Hagwons are parent-funded and results-driven—run more like a business than a public institution.

🕒 2. Work Hours and Weekly Schedule

One of the biggest lifestyle differences between EPIK and hagwon jobs is the work schedule.

EPIK teachers work standard school hours—typically from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday. You’ll have weekends, evenings, and national holidays off. This schedule suits those who enjoy structure, value free time in the evenings, or want weekends to travel and recharge.

Hagwon teachers, by contrast, usually work from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and many positions require Saturday shifts or operate on a split schedule. Since students attend hagwons after regular school, the bulk of your work happens in the afternoon and evening.

If you’re an early riser who values a regular 9-to-5 rhythm and weekend adventures, EPIK might be your style. But if you’re a night owl who enjoys slower mornings and doesn’t mind teaching later, a hagwon could be a better fit.

👨‍👩‍👧 3. Who You'll Be Teaching

The students you teach—and how you interact with them—varies greatly between EPIK and hagwon jobs.

EPIK teachers are placed in public schools, usually teaching elementary or middle school students in large classes of 20–40 students. You’ll often work with a Korean co-teacher and focus on foundational English skills. Students may not always be motivated, as English is a required subject, not a choice. That said, there’s great opportunity to build relationships and bring creativity to the classroom.

Hagwon teachers, on the other hand, teach small groups or even one-on-one. Students range from kindergarteners to adults, depending on the school. Because hagwon students (or their parents) are paying for extra lessons, they’re often more focused—but that also comes with higher expectations for results and engagement.

If you thrive on structure and enjoy working with kids in a supportive environment, EPIK might be ideal. But if you prefer smaller class sizes, variety in age groups, and more direct student interaction, hagwons can be a better fit.

🎯 4. Your Role in the Classroom

In public schools through EPIK, you'll typically work as a Guest English Teacher (GET). That means you'll co-teach alongside a Korean co-teacher, who leads most of the lesson structure, classroom management, and grading. Your role is to support their lessons, model native pronunciation, and lead fun, engaging speaking activities. Depending on your placement, you might take a more active or passive role in lesson planning and delivery, but overall, it’s a collaborative and structured environment.

In a hagwon, you're the main instructor. You’ll be expected to lead lessons on your own, follow the school’s curriculum, and sometimes tailor content to individual students. There’s usually more independence, but also greater accountability—from both school owners and paying parents. You may also be asked to conduct trial lessons, give student feedback, and manage classroom behavior solo.

If you're looking for an entry-level role with less pressure and more guidance, EPIK is often the better choice. But if you're confident in your teaching abilities and enjoy having full control of your classroom, a hagwon might be the challenge you’re after.

💬 5. Curriculum and Teaching Style

In EPIK positions, you’ll be working within the framework of South Korea’s national curriculum. Lessons are designed to support what students are already learning in school, with a strong focus on reading, writing, listening, and speaking. You’ll usually co-plan with your Korean co-teacher, though how much creative input you have can vary. Some teachers are given room to create warm-up games or conversation activities, while others stick closely to textbooks and government-issued materials. The environment is structured, and consistency is key.

Hagwons, on the other hand, are more commercial and results-driven, so the curriculum can range from tightly scripted lessons to loosely guided outlines. Some major chains (like Chungdahm or Avalon) provide set materials with minimal flexibility, while smaller or independent schools might expect you to build lessons from scratch. This gives experienced or creative teachers more freedom—but can also feel overwhelming for first-timers.

If you want predictability and guidance, EPIK’s curriculum structure offers security. If you enjoy adapting your lessons to different students and trying out your own ideas, hagwons provide more room to experiment.

💼 6. Salary, Vacation, and Benefits

One of the biggest factors in choosing between EPIK and hagwons is what you get outside the classroom—salary, time off, and perks.

EPIK teachers earn a base salary ranging from ₩2.0 million to ₩2.7 million per month, depending on qualifications and location. What really sets EPIK apart is the vacation time—you get at least 18 paid vacation days, plus all national holidays. You’re also enrolled in Korea’s national health insurance and pension system, both of which are partially paid by your employer. These benefits can add up significantly over a year, especially with the end-of-contract severance bonus and subsidized or provided housing.

Hagwon teachers usually earn ₩2.2 million to ₩2.8 million per month, sometimes more in competitive markets or higher-end schools. While the base pay can be slightly higher than EPIK, vacation time is limited—usually around 10 paid days per year, and national holidays might not always be guaranteed off. Some hagwons enroll you in national insurance and pension, but not all do, especially smaller or less reputable schools. Always clarify this in your contract. That said, many still offer housing or a housing allowance, a one-way flight, and a completion bonus.

So: if paid time off, benefits, and peace of mind are your priority, EPIK wins. If you're drawn to the higher earning potential or urban convenience, a hagwon might work better—just be careful to choose a reputable one.

📍 7. Placement Location and Housing

Where you live in Korea can completely shape your experience—from daily routines to friendships to cultural immersion.

EPIK places teachers nationwide, including rural towns, small cities, and larger urban centers. You can list preferences during your application, but final placement is based on school needs, so flexibility is key. Many teachers end up in the countryside, where you'll find slower-paced life, fewer foreigners, and deeper cultural connections. Housing is almost always provided by the school or subsidized through a monthly allowance. Accommodations vary—sometimes basic, but functional and cost-effective.

Hagwons, on the other hand, are mostly located in urban or suburban areas. Cities like Seoul, Busan, Incheon, and Daegu have a high concentration of private academies. That means easier access to public transport, international food, entertainment, and larger expat communities. Housing is often provided or covered by an allowance, and many teachers live near their school or in well-connected neighborhoods. Urban placements also make it easier to build a social life with other foreigners and locals.

If you’re excited by city life and convenience, hagwons usually deliver. If you’re curious about immersing yourself in Korean culture, even in quieter, more remote settings, EPIK may be the more enriching route.

🧑‍💼 8. Work Culture and Expectations

The work environment in Korea varies significantly between public schools (EPIK) and private hagwons, and knowing the differences can help you avoid culture shock.

In EPIK, you're part of a government-run system. That means the culture is usually formal, consistent, and respectful—you’ll be expected to show up on time, dress professionally, and participate in school life (like lunch or school events). There's less pressure to “perform” in a business sense, and once you're in, your job tends to be stable with clearly defined expectations. However, the pace can be slower, and there’s not always a lot of feedback or guidance, especially in rural placements.

Hagwons operate as for-profit businesses, and that comes with a different dynamic. Owners and managers expect results—meaning student retention, parent satisfaction, and positive feedback. You might be monitored more closely, from lesson delivery to student outcomes. Some schools even have sales targets, especially during trial lessons. While you may have more autonomy in the classroom, the corporate structure and customer-oriented mindset can feel more demanding.

In short, EPIK offers more job security and consistency, while hagwons often deliver faster feedback, higher expectations, and a performance-driven atmosphere. Choose based on how much structure vs. independence you thrive in.

🧠 9. Who Each Job Is Best For

If you’re new to teaching or moving abroad for the first time, EPIK is often the more forgiving entry point. The structured schedule, consistent government oversight, and built-in vacation time make it a strong choice for teachers who value stability, cultural immersion, and work-life balance. It’s also a good fit if you're more introverted or cautious and prefer easing into the Korean education system with plenty of guidance and support.

On the other hand, hagwons are well-suited to teachers who are energetic, adaptable, and self-directed. If you enjoy fast-paced work environments, want to live in a buzzing city, or like taking charge of your classroom, hagwon jobs can be exciting and financially rewarding. They’re a better fit for people who don’t mind a bit of hustle, can handle pressure from parents or management, and are motivated by more immediate feedback and results.

Ultimately, the “better” job depends on your personality, goals, and how you want to experience life in South Korea. Whether you crave structure or thrive on variety, there’s a teaching path that aligns with the kind of adventure you’re after.

📝 Conclusion: EPIK vs Hagwon – Two Distinct Teaching Experiences

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when choosing between EPIK and hagwon jobs—each offers a unique way to live and work in South Korea. EPIK is ideal if you want structure, generous vacation time, and the experience of working in a public institution. It’s a steady and supportive way to begin a teaching journey abroad.

Hagwons, on the other hand, offer faster hiring, urban placements, and a more dynamic day-to-day experience. They can be a great fit for teachers who thrive on independence, don’t mind a busy schedule, and want to be at the center of city life.

In the end, your decision should match your personality, professional goals, and the kind of lifestyle you want in Korea. Whether you're craving routine and cultural immersion or flexibility and excitement, there's a path that suits you.

👉 Explore Teaching Jobs in South Korea
👉 Learn More About Teaching English in Korea
👉 Learn More About EPIK