Teaching in South Korea?

Question

Basically I'm in south korea and looking for a job teaching english except I have several problems:

1. I don't have a work visa

2. I don't have a uni degree (usually a requirement)

3. I'm only 18

Is there anyone who would even consider employing me (even for a lower rate than usual native speakers) because I hear these things above are usually extremely important for colleges/clients.

Thanks.

Answer 1

Legally, NO you can not get a job teaching English in S. Korea.  You need an E visa and they are really strict about that.  There is a new program called the TaLK program (teach and learn Korean), but the requirements are at least 1 or 2 years university.  

If you try to take privates, be careful where you advertise.  It is illegal and you can be fined and/or deported if you are caught.  It is best to keep a low profile, putting your name in a newspaper or on a apartment building can be asking for trouble.  The best way to do it is to network.  Make Korean friends and ask them to find you students (even give them commission).  If you find some good mom's to pass around your name you can make really good money.  Your age can be a real asset, Koreans love young foreigners.  

There is one other solution, if you enroll into a university in Korea, I believe you can work part time legally.  This was the case 4 years ago.  You will have to check this out more on your own through a university.

Answer 2

No, you need to have a bachelors degree and get a visa from an employer. Your age doesn't matter that much, though it is in your favor as they like younger teachers.

There is a program that allows people with some college to come over and teach on a short term basis called the TALK program. This is a relatively new program and I don't know too much about it.

Your best bet is to stay in school and then come over once you graduate.

Answer 3

Well, you almost always need at least a University Degree to teach in acadademies in Korea ( a law, I think ). However, there are tons of parents in Korea who want a private tutor, and you can just advertise yourself in the Korean newspapers.

Remember that the parents WILL fire you if their child isn't making good progress with you.

Good luck.