Teach English in Gangwon, South Korea (2024)

Nestled in the northeastern part of South Korea, Gangwon Province paints a picture of untamed beauty, where majestic mountains meet serene beaches. Best known for hosting the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, this province is a symphony of nature and modernity. While winters transform the region into a snowy wonderland, summers are embraced with beach festivals in coastal cities like Sokcho and Gangneung. But beyond its scenic beauty, Gangwon offers a serene environment for teachers looking to share their knowledge and immerse themselves in genuine Korean experiences.

Reasons to Teach English in Gangwon

Nature at its Best: For those who find peace in the lap of nature, Gangwon is a paradise. Be it the Seoraksan National Park with its autumn foliage or the Odaesan Mountains covered in snow, there's always a nature trail waiting to be explored.
Rich Cultural Experiences: Gangwon holds some of the most celebrated festivals, including the Pyeongchang Trout Festival and the Chuncheon Mime Festival. As a teacher, not only do you get to experience these firsthand, but you also have the chance to introduce your students to diverse global cultures.
Ideal Learning Environment: The serene environment of Gangwon, devoid of the urban hustle, is conducive to focused learning. The students here, curious about the world beyond, are eager to grasp the English language, making teaching a rewarding experience.
Experience Traditional Korea: Cities like Wonju and Donghae still resonate with traditional Korean vibes, from ancient temples to folk villages. Living here is like traveling back in time and experiencing the Korea of yesteryears.
Modern Amenities: While Gangwon has its roots firmly grounded in traditions, cities like Gangneung offer all the modern amenities one might need, from international restaurants to multiplexes, ensuring a comfortable living experience.
Opportunity for Winter Sports: If you are a winter sports enthusiast, places like Pyeongchang offer opportunities to indulge in skiing, snowboarding, and more, making winters something to look forward to.
Closeness to North Korea: The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is a significant part of Gangwon. Taking guided tours to the DMZ offers insights into the intense history between North and South Korea and is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Cities in Gangwon Province

Gangwon is an enchanting province that has managed to retain its natural charm while seamlessly merging with the modern world. Here's a list of its cities, each unique and boasting its own attractions:

Chuncheon The provincial capital, Chuncheon is dubbed the "City of Lakes", sitting between the Soyang and Han rivers. It's famous for dak galbi (spicy stir-fried chicken) and offers beautiful lakeside views, making it a popular weekend getaway.
Wonju Home to the famous Chiaksan National Park, Wonju is a vibrant city with a blend of urban life and natural beauty. The city also promotes its history through the Wonju Hanji Theme Park, dedicated to traditional Korean paper.
Gangneung Gangneung made global headlines as a host city for the 2018 Winter Olympics. It is also renowned for its beautiful beaches like Gyeongpo Beach and cultural events such as the Danoje Festival.
Donghae Named after the East Sea (Donghae in Korean), this coastal city offers attractions like the Mureung Valley and Cheongok Cave, making it a haven for nature lovers.
Samcheok Known for its scenic beauty, Samcheok offers attractions such as Hwanseon Cave, the largest limestone cave in Korea, and the picturesque Samcheok Marine Cable Car.
Sokcho A gateway to the Seoraksan National Park, Sokcho is famed for its fresh seafood, beautiful beaches, and the historic Sokcho Lighthouse Observatory.
Taebaek Home to the Taebaek Mountain Range, the city is synonymous with scenic vistas. The Taebaek Coal Museum and Hwangji Pond are among its top attractions.
Pyeongchang Globally recognized as the host of the 2018 Winter Olympics, Pyeongchang is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. It's also home to several Buddhist temples, including the Woljeongsa Temple.
Hongcheon A place of wellness, Hongcheon is famous for its healing spas and the Hongcheon River, which meanders gracefully through the city.
Hwacheon Celebrated for the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, Hwacheon offers a mix of cultural events and natural attractions, including the Peace Dam.
Yanggu Known for the Duty Free Shop and the 4th Tunnel, which is one of the infiltration tunnels dug by North Korea, Yanggu offers a blend of history and commerce.
Inje With attractions such as the Inje Speedium and the Baekdamsa Temple, Inje caters to both thrill-seekers and those in search of serenity.
Jeongseon A city of tradition, Jeongseon is renowned for its Arirang, a traditional folk song. The Jeongseon Rail Bike and the Jeongseon 5-day Market are also popular attractions.
Yeongwol Famous for the King Danjong's tomb and the Yeongwol Korean Traditional Music Museum, Yeongwol offers a peek into Korea's rich history.
Hoengseong Recognized for its premium Hoengseong beef, the city also boasts natural wonders like the Geumbyeongsan Mountain.
Goesan With its clean environment and serene ambience, Goesan is renowned for organic farming and produces high-quality agricultural products.
Cheorwon A city with historical significance due to its location near the DMZ, Cheorwon is home to the Second Tunnel and the Labor Party Headquarters.
Yangyang A coastal town famed for its surfing culture, Yangyang also offers attractions such as the Naksansa Temple and the Hajodae Beach.

Living in Gangwon

Living in Gangwon is like stepping into a serene painting where nature and modernity blend seamlessly. This province, while offering stunning natural vistas, is no stranger to the comforts of contemporary life.

Natural Splendor

Gangwon is the go-to place in South Korea for anyone who seeks solace in the arms of nature. With the Taebaek Mountain Range running through it, numerous national parks, and the captivating East Sea coastline, Gangwon offers breathtaking views throughout the year. The winter snowfalls make the landscapes particularly picturesque, turning it into a winter wonderland.

Modern Conveniences

Although nature's beauty is one of Gangwon's strongest points, the province is well-equipped with modern conveniences. Cities like Chuncheon and Gangneung offer all the amenities you'd expect from urban centers, from shopping malls and movie theaters to a wide range of dining options.

Food Culture

Gangwon's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional and modern. Chuncheon's spicy dak galbi and the fresh seafood in coastal towns like Sokcho are must-tries. Additionally, Pyeongchang's buckwheat dishes and Hoengseong's premium beef stand as culinary representatives of the region.

Sports and Recreation

Being host to the 2018 Winter Olympics, Gangwon has world-class sports facilities. Skiing and snowboarding are popular in areas like Pyeongchang. Moreover, the province has various hiking trails, making it a dream destination for trekking enthusiasts.

Festivals

Gangwon knows how to celebrate its culture and traditions. From the vibrant Danoje Festival in Gangneung to the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival in Hwacheon, there's always something happening that captures the essence of the province.

Cost of Living

Generally, the cost of living in Gangwon is lower than in major metropolitan areas like Seoul. However, prices can surge during peak tourist seasons, especially in regions popular among tourists.

Connectivity

While Gangwon offers a retreat from the hustle and bustle, it's well-connected with the rest of South Korea. Efficient bus services and train routes ensure you're never too far from the urban centers.

Education

For those with families, Gangwon boasts reputable schools and educational institutes. Moreover, the presence of international communities around the ski resorts and coastal areas means that there are also international schools catering to diverse curriculums.

Teacher Stories

Sarah from the USA

Sarah, hailing from San Francisco, was always captivated by snow-capped mountains and serene landscapes. Her decision to teach in Gangwon was primarily driven by her love for nature. "I've always been a fan of the snow," she says, "The idea of teaching during the week and skiing during the weekends was simply too irresistible. Beyond the scenic beauty, I found the students to be very respectful, and the local staff supportive. The cultural exchange goes both ways. I'm teaching them English, and they're introducing me to the rich Korean heritage."

Liam from the UK

A Liverpool native, Liam was initially unsure about his move to Gangwon. But his yearning for adventure led him to this beautiful province. "The education system is quite structured," he remarks. "While this offers clarity, it also means you have to adapt your teaching methods. But the real charm lies outside the classroom. The festivals, the food, and the unparalleled beauty of the province make it all worthwhile."

Anele from South Africa

Coming from the vibrant city of Johannesburg, Anele was looking for a change of pace when she decided to teach in Gangwon. "The transition was smooth," she shares. "While there's a language barrier, the warmth and hospitality of the locals make you feel right at home. Plus, the hiking trails here are unmatched. I've discovered a newfound love for trekking."

Charlotte from Australia

Sydney-born Charlotte was drawn to Gangwon due to its reputation as a winter sports hub. "Being an avid snowboarder, the idea of being able to hit the slopes after school was a dream come true," she beams. "Teaching here has been an enriching experience. My students are curious, and there's always a sense of mutual learning in my classroom."

Moving Towards Teaching English In Gangwon

Embarking on a journey to teach English in Gangwon is not just about the profession but also about embracing a lifestyle. As the stories above illustrate, Gangwon offers a harmonious blend of work and leisure, modernity and tradition, serenity and adventure.

Teaching in Gangwon provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in a culturally rich environment while also enjoying the perks of living amidst nature's grandeur. From winter sports to hiking, from traditional festivals to contemporary comforts, Gangwon has it all.

For educators aspiring to make a difference while also seeking personal growth and exploration, Gangwon beckons. The province promises a fulfilling teaching experience complemented by the joys of discovering South Korean culture and the mesmerizing landscapes of the region.