Teach English in Gyeongnam, South Korea (2024)

Nestled in the southeastern part of South Korea, Gyeongnam, or South Gyeongsang Province, is a tapestry of scenic coastal towns, historical sites, and bustling urban centers. It's where tradition meets modernity; from the ancient relics of the Silla Dynasty in Tongyeong to the technological hubs of Changwon. Surrounded by the South Sea, its coastline is adorned with pristine beaches, offering tranquil sunsets and invigorating sea breezes. As the second-largest province by area, Gyeongnam provides an expansive backdrop of experiences, cultures, and landscapes, making it a unique destination for educators from around the globe.

Reasons to Teach English in Gyeongnam

Cultural Immersion: Gyeongnam's cities, such as Jinju and Geoje, are repositories of rich Korean history. Teachers can experience traditional festivals like the Jinju Namgang Lantern Festival or visit historical sites, getting an authentic taste of Korean culture.
Natural Beauty: From the Hallyeohaesang National Park's picturesque islands to the serene landscapes of Upo Wetland, Gyeongnam offers nature lovers an escape from the urban hustle.
Urban Experience: Cities like Changwon are not just economic powerhouses but also epitomize Korea's modern lifestyle. Living here gives teachers a balanced experience of both traditional and contemporary Korea.
Diverse Teaching Opportunities: Whether you're looking to teach in a rural school with close-knit communities or a modern academy in urban areas, Gyeongnam offers a spectrum of teaching environments.
Strategic Location: Being in proximity to major cities like Busan, teachers in Gyeongnam can easily travel and explore other parts of Korea during weekends or holidays.
Warm and Welcoming Communities: The local communities in Gyeongnam are known for their hospitality. They often go out of their way to make foreign teachers feel at home, offering an enriching experience both inside and outside the classroom.
Culinary Delights: Gyeongnam's cuisine, with specialties like Tongyeong's oysters and Hadong's green tea, will be a treat for food enthusiasts looking to explore regional Korean flavors.

Understanding Gyeongnam's Education Landscape

The educational landscape of Gyeongnam, like much of South Korea, is marked by a strong emphasis on academic excellence and competitive achievement. Parents in Gyeongnam, whether in bustling urban centers or serene rural areas, recognize the importance of English proficiency for their children's future. As a result, there's a significant demand for English educators in both public schools and private language academies, known as hagwons.

In public schools, the English program is standardized, focusing on enhancing communicative skills, while hagwons might have a more varied curriculum, catering to specific needs, such as test preparation or conversational English. Teachers might find that smaller towns in Gyeongnam offer a more close-knit teaching environment, whereas cities like Changwon present a fast-paced teaching atmosphere.

Eligibility and Requirements to Teach English in Gyeongnam

The process and prerequisites for teaching English in Gyeongnam largely mirror those for the rest of South Korea. Before delving into the specific requirements for Gyeongnam, it's worth noting that the broader guidelines can be found in our comprehensive guide on teaching English in South Korea.

However, for those looking to teach in Gyeongnam, here are the specific requirements:

Degree: Hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (In any subject).
Nationality: Be a citizen of a country where English is the primary language (Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, The United Kingdom, The United States, or South Africa).
Health: Be mentally and physically healthy and pass a health check.
Criminal Record: Have a clean national-level criminal record.
Experience: Experience is preferred, but not required.
TEFL Certificate: Holding a TEFL certificate is preferred, but not always required.
Language Proficiency: Have a good command of the English language.
Cultural Adaptability: Have the ability and willingness to adapt to Korean culture and life.

Salary and Benefits for Teaching English in Gyeongnam

In Gyeongnam, the salary for English teachers typically ranges between 2.1 to 2.7 million KRW per month, depending on the teacher's qualifications, the type of institution (public school or hagwon), and the location within the province.

Benefits often include:

Housing: Either provided accommodation or a housing allowance.
Health Insurance: Generally, half of the insurance premium is covered by the employer.
Severance Pay: Equivalent to one month's salary, given upon completion of a one-year contract.
Vacation: Around 10-15 days of paid vacation, in addition to national holidays.
Airfare: Either a full or partial reimbursement for your flight to South Korea, and a return flight after contract completion.

The competitive salary, coupled with benefits, makes Gyeongnam an attractive destination for teachers looking for both a cultural experience and a rewarding teaching career.

Cities in Gyeongnam Province

Gyeongnam, officially called Gyeongsangnam-do, is one of South Korea's most diverse provinces, with a combination of bustling urban centers, historical sites, and scenic coastal areas. Here's a look at the major cities within Gyeongnam:

Changwon: The provincial capital and the largest city of Gyeongnam, Changwon is a planned city known for its urban design and environmental policies. It's also famous for Jinhae's cherry blossom festival which attracts visitors every spring.
Geoje: Located on an island, Geoje is known for its shipbuilding industry and scenic beaches. Historical attractions like the Oedo-Botania marine botanical garden make it a must-visit.
Tongyeong: Often called the "Naples of the East," Tongyeong is a port city renowned for its marine national parks and seafood, especially the Tongyeong oyster.
Jinju: An ancient city with a rich history, Jinju is known for the Jinjuseong Fortress and the annual Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival which showcases hundreds of lanterns floating on the Namgang River.
Gimhae: Historically significant due to its association with the ancient Gaya Kingdom, Gimhae is home to cultural sites like the Bonghwangdae burial mound and the Gaya Theme Park.
Sacheon: A city known for its aviation and shipbuilding industries. Sacheon's scenic coastlines and Samcheonpo fish market are major attractions.
Yangsan: Situated close to Busan, Yangsan has urbanized rapidly and is known for attractions like the Tongdosa Temple, one of the three major Buddhist temples in Korea.
Miryang: A city with deep cultural roots, it's known for the Miryang arirang folk song, Miryang River, and the ancient Pyochungsa temple.
Haman: Known for historical sites like the ancient tombs from the Gaya period, Haman's Choe Champan House also stands as a testament to the region's architectural heritage.
Uiryeong: A tranquil county known for its green landscapes and historic sites, including ancient tombs and traditional villages.
Hapcheon: Home to the Haeinsa Temple, where the Tripitaka Koreana wooden blocks are stored, this site is a UNESCO World Heritage attraction.
Geochang: A county surrounded by mountains, it's a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Hadong: Known for its scenic tea fields, Hadong is the oldest tea-producing area in Korea and hosts an annual tea festival.
Namhae: Located on the southern coast, Namhae is an island county known for its picturesque landscapes, garlic farms, and the German Village, reflecting the region's emigrant history.
Sancheong: Renowned for its herbal medicine tradition, Sancheong hosts the Korean Medicine Bio Industry Expo.
Goseong: Boasting a beautiful coastline and the Dinosaur Museum, Goseong is a blend of natural beauty and prehistoric significance.
Hamyang: Known for the Baekdudaegan mountain range, Hamyang is a nature lover's paradise with pristine forests and clear streams.

Living in Gyeongnam

Gyeongnam, or Gyeongsangnam-do, is a province that perfectly marries the tranquility of its scenic countryside with the vibrancy of its urban centers. Living in this province promises a balanced life enriched by Korea's deep cultural roots and its burgeoning modernity. Let's delve into what life is like for residents and especially for foreign teachers living in Gyeongnam.

Balance of Urban and Rural

Gyeongnam boasts bustling cities like Changwon, which, as the provincial capital, offers all urban conveniences from vast shopping districts to contemporary apartments. On the flip side, places like Hadong present serene tea fields where one can relax and rejuvenate, away from the hustle and bustle.

Rich Cultural Experiences

The province is dotted with historical landmarks such as the Jinjuseong Fortress in Jinju and the Haeinsa Temple in Hapcheon. Residents often find weekends filled with explorations of these sites, deepening their understanding of Korea's rich history.

Culinary Delights

Gyeongnam is a haven for food lovers. From the fresh seafood of Tongyeong to the diverse street food in Changwon's markets, there's always something delicious to try. And let's not forget the famed Hadong tea, which is a must-try for anyone residing in or visiting the province.

Natural Beauty

The province is home to breathtaking landscapes, from the coastal vistas of Geoje to the mountainous terrains of Geochang. Whether you're an avid hiker or someone who loves a leisurely walk by the beach, Gyeongnam has got you covered.

Friendly Communities

For English teachers coming from abroad, the warmth of the local communities in Gyeongnam is a highlight. There's a sense of camaraderie and support, especially in the smaller towns, where locals are often curious and welcoming to foreigners.

Economic Development

Gyeongnam is not just about scenic beauty and history; it's also a hub of economic activity. With industries ranging from shipbuilding in Geoje to the aviation industry in Sacheon, the province offers diverse job opportunities and modern amenities.

Cost of Living

While the cost of living might be slightly higher in cities like Changwon compared to smaller towns, overall, Gyeongnam offers a reasonable cost of living, especially when compared to mega-cities like Seoul.

Teacher Stories

Sarah from the USA

"When I first arrived in Gyeongnam, I was instantly taken aback by its sheer beauty. I taught English in Jinju, and I remember being fascinated by the Jinjuseong Fortress. The local festivals and celebrations gave me a firsthand experience of Korean traditions. My students were curious and eager to learn, and their enthusiasm made my teaching journey rewarding."

Liam from the UK

"Gyeongnam offered a delightful contrast to the bustling city life of London. I taught in Geoje, a city surrounded by the sea and picturesque landscapes. The weekends were a blend of hiking, beach visits, and indulging in the delicious local seafood. The bond I formed with my co-teachers and students remains close to my heart."

Thabo from South Africa

"Coming from Cape Town, I found Gyeongnam's nature to resonate with me deeply. The tea fields of Hadong and the coastal vistas were reminiscent of home. Teaching English here gave me a chance to share my culture while absorbing the rich Korean heritage."

Mia from Australia

"Teaching in Gyeongnam was my first international job. The warmth and support from the local community in Tongyeong made my transition smooth. From exploring local markets to trying out diverse street food, every day was an adventure."

Aoife from Ireland

"I always wanted to explore Asia, and teaching English in Gyeongnam gave me that opportunity. The Haeinsa Temple in Hapcheon was my favorite spot for meditation and self-reflection. The interactions with my students and learning about their dreams and aspirations were the highlights of my teaching journey."

Sophie from Canada

"Living and teaching in Gyeongnam was a life-changing experience. The cultural exchange inside and outside the classroom was enriching. I made lifelong friends and memories I'll always cherish."

Aiden from New Zealand

"Coming from the Kiwi land, Gyeongnam's diverse landscapes felt familiar yet intriguing. Teaching in Changwon, I got the best of urban life while being a short trip away from nature's wonders. The students' eagerness to learn about New Zealand and their joy when understanding English concepts made every day rewarding."

Moving Towards Teaching English In Gyeongnam

In the heart of South Korea lies Gyeongnam, a province teeming with historical landmarks, natural beauty, and urban charms. Whether it's the bonds formed with students, the cultural immersion, or the simple joys of exploring a new land, teaching English in Gyeongnam is a journey of discovery and growth.

If you're an aspiring English teacher looking for a destination that offers professional growth, cultural enrichment, and the warmth of a welcoming community, Gyeongnam awaits you. Embrace the adventure and embark on a teaching journey that promises memories for a lifetime.