Why Teach English in South Korea?
People come to Korea “Land of the Morning Calm” for many different reasons. Some are looking for teaching experience. Others are recent graduates looking for an adventure before they become part of the rat race.
Others come primarily for financial reasons – to help pay off loans or debts or to set themselves up for some other venture. Other, more seasoned travellers use teaching in Korea as a base to finance future adventures.
Most people though are just looking for a change from everyday life i.e. something different. South Korea is different, very different. From the food to the language to the Confucian mindset, it’s an entirely different culture.
South Korea is a country of relatively small size yet it has a population of almost 50 million. The cities are big and bustling but somehow the countryside remains picturesque and unspoilt.
The rapid growth of the South Korean economy in recent years means that Korea’s ancient culture has become intrinsically entwined with hi-tech modern living.
It is not uncommon to see a bent over old woman pulling a rickety cart full of eggs down the street, stop in the middle of traffic, pull a minuscule cell phone from her tatty old pocket then proceed to have a conversation on the phone apparently oblivious to the impatient drivers blasting their horns all around her.
More common still are the market women sitting on the pavement in all weathers cleaning beansprouts or gutting fish all the while munching on a deep fried corn dog slathered in tomato ketchup.
Such everyday encounters make living in Korea a fascinating experience. If you choose to come to Korea to live and work it is essential to keep an open mind and to respect Korean culture.
Please keep in mind that things will not necessarily run as smoothly as they would in a western culture. You will without a doubt have to make compromises and adjustments. Teaching English in South Korea is an unforgettable experience that will change your life forever. Do something different. Teach English in South Korea!
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