Public School Teaching Jobs in Korea - Provincial Placements

Public schools in Korea offer a great working environment and are perfect for those who want to get the real Korean experience. The structured teaching schedule allows teachers to enjoy evenings and weekends off while sharing their knowledge with Korean students and teachers. Teachers who are hired to work at public schools work directly for the Korean Ministry of Education. These jobs are ideal for people who are interested in teaching as a profession or those who want to gain international experience.

Teachers will work alongside local teachers in the classroom to improve English education for students. To be eligible for this program you must be a Native English Speaker and hold a minimum of a bachelor's degree. Click here for more details about teaching in public schools in Korea.

List of Provincial Placements

Teaching in Gangwon

The Gangwon region is one of the oldest in Korea; it was one of the eight original provinces during the Joseon Dynasty, formed in 1395.  Its northern boundary changed once Korea was divided into two following World War II and the subsequent Korean War.  Because of its large size and small population of a little over one million, Gangwon has a very low population density compared with other areas of the country.  However, the scenic east coast of the region is only a three hour drive from Seoul.

The Chuncheon and Namiseom Islands have become major tourist destinations in Korea.  Widely viewed as having spectacular sunsets and plentiful recreation resorts, these sites attract both domestic and foreign tourists alike.  A variety of water-sports such as kayaking, rafting and water-skiing can be found in summer.  Skiing in the Yongpyong and Sunwoo resorts are popular winter sports in this area.

Teaching in Chungbuk

This mountainous, land-locked region has a small population of only one million.  Because of its mountainous location, many cities in Chungbuk receive more precipitation in the form of rain and snow than other areas of Korea.  Even though the climate is relatively reflective of the rest of the country, some of the coastal cities experience more mild temperatures in the winter.  

Chungbuk has the one of the oldest temples in Korea, known as Beopjusa, that can be found in Sobaek National Park.  Nearby this famous temple is the 1.058 meter tall Mt. Songni, a popular tourist spot due to the spectacular views of the surrounding valleys of Hwayang, Seonyudon and Ssanggok.  Due to the mountainous nature of the region, skiing is a very popular sport in the winter.  Golf courses have also been constructed to take advantage of the breath-taking scenery that the mountains provide.

Teaching in Chungnam

This region can be found in the west of Korea and has a population of around two million.  However, despite its small population, it remains an important area for transportation around Korea.  This is due to the frequent crossing of major rail lines and highways within the region.  As a result, many travelers going between the northern and southern areas of the country end up going through Chungnam.

One of the biggest tourist destinations in this region is Mount Gyeryong which stands at 845 meters.  It is well-known for its unique rock formations and historic temples in the surrounding area.  Also, some of the best bathing beaches in the country can be found in Taean Marine National Park.  The Independence Hall of Korea is another big attraction in this area; it pays homage to those who fought against foreign invasions throughout the history of Korea.

Teaching in Jeonbuk

This area of two million people has some of the hottest temperatures in summer in Korea, with winter being relatively cold.  Jeonbuk perceives itself as having Korea’s best tasting foods, as well as having a great natural environment, complete with mountains, parks, rivers and lakes.  One of the most popular tourist attractions in Jeonbuk is Soswaewon Garden, located in Damyang.  Its enormous bamboo trees attract visitors from all over the country.  There are also numerous green tea fields in Boseong and Gurye that are cultivated in the spring. 

Apart from also being a popular skiing region due to its many mountains, Jeobuk is also known for its abundant Korean souvenirs.  A wide variety of companies making souvenirs such as woodenware, bamboo fans, Korean paper and authentic jewelry can be found in Jeonbuk.

Teaching in Jeonnam

Apart from Jeju, this is the most southerly region of Korea with over 2,000 islands along the coastline, albeit three-quarters of which are uninhabited by people.  The population of two million is confined into a relatively small area.  After Jeju, it is the most southerly province in Korea, therefore having a milder climate than other parts of Korea.  To illustrate, the average temperatures in winter rarely drop below freezing.   The coastline itself is over 6,100 kilometers long.  There is a significant marine product influence here, particularly oyster and seaweed cultivation, the most in the country. 

There are numerous water-based activities that can be found among Jeonnam and its islands.  One of the fun and popular activities is the Open Water Swimming content between Heuksando Island and Hongdo Island.  Captain Cooks Island Adventure is an exciting program that offers a tour of the islands of Jeonnam for the adventurous type.

Teaching in Gyeongbuk

Over 250,000 college students representing 38 universities can also be found in this region.  Not surprisingly, this vast network of universities has contributed to tremendous growth of science, technology and other knowledge-based industries.  This region is surrounded by mountains, allowing for extremes in temperatures for both summer and winter.  However, the closer you get to the East Sea, the warmer and more moderate the climate is. 

This large region of over two million is the home of many ethnic cultures including the Buddhists originating from the Silla Dynasty and the Confusion culture of the Joseon Dynasty.  Nearby, the historic villages of Hahoe and Yangdong in Andong and Gyeongju respectively, are certainly worth touring.  Because of these World Heritage sites, along with the region containing 20% of Korea’s assets, Gyeongbuk is regarded as one of the largest cultural centers in the country.

Teaching in Gyeongnam

This region of three million has a significant agriculture influence like many other provinces in Korea.  The climate of Gyeongnam can differ significantly depending on your location within the region.  Being around the mountains generally calls for more temperature extremes while southern locations tend to be much more moderate due to the sea.  Overall, the average temperatures in winter hover just above freezing while the summer temperatures are reflective of most of the country.

One of the most widely-recognized temples in Korea can be found in Gyeongnam.  The World Heritage Site temple of  Haeinsa, which was originally built in the year 802, houses the Tripitaka Koreana and is very popular with tourists.  The temple is one of the Three Jewel Temples of Korea.  It can be found on Gaya Mountain in the major national park around Jirisan.