A Day in the Life of an ESL Teacher in South Korea and China

Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) in South Korea and China is an exciting opportunity for educators who want to travel, experience new cultures, and make a difference in students’ lives. Both countries offer structured teaching environments, great salaries, and cultural immersion. But what is a typical day like for an ESL teacher in these countries? Let’s take a closer look.

Morning Routine

대한민국

In South Korea, ESL teachers typically work in public schools or private academies called hagwons. A teacher’s day usually starts at around 7:00 AM if they work in a public school.

• Wake up, get ready, and grab a quick breakfast, usually something simple like toast or a kimbap roll from a convenience store.
• Commute to school via bus or subway. Public transport in Korea is very efficient.
• Arrive at school by 8:30 AM and prepare lesson materials before students arrive at 9:00 AM.

중국

ESL teachers in China work in public schools, private language institutions, or international schools. Their morning routine is quite similar to Korea’s.

• Wake up around 7:00 AM and enjoy a traditional breakfast like steamed buns or congee.
• Commute to work, often by bus, subway, or even electric scooters.
• Arrive at school by 8:00 AM to prepare lessons and interact with colleagues before classes begin at 8:30 AM.

Teaching Schedule and Classroom Experience

대한민국

• Classes usually last 40-50 minutes, with 4-5 lessons before lunch.
• Students are disciplined, and classrooms are structured with clear expectations.
• Teachers use interactive lessons, games, and storytelling to engage students.
• Public school teachers have co-teachers, while hagwon teachers often teach alone.

중국

• Classes vary from 30-45 minutes, depending on the school type.
• Students are enthusiastic and eager to learn English.
• ESL teachers focus on conversational skills, pronunciation, and basic grammar.
• Many schools encourage the use of multimedia and technology in the classroom.

Learn more- Teach Away

Lunch Break and Afternoon Classes

대한민국

• Teachers eat lunch in the school cafeteria with students or colleagues. Korean school lunches are nutritious, often including rice, kimchi, and soup.
• After lunch, teachers may have a free period to grade assignments, plan lessons, or relax.
• Afternoon classes typically continue until 3:30 PM for public schools, while hagwons may have classes from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

중국

• Lunch is provided in most schools, offering local dishes like dumplings, rice, and stir-fried vegetables.
• Teachers have a midday break (sometimes up to two hours) to rest or prepare for afternoon lessons.
• Teaching continues until 4:00 PM in public schools, while private institutions may have evening sessions.

After School Activities and Free Time

대한민국

• Many teachers engage in extracurricular activities like English clubs or tutoring.
• Hagwon teachers usually work late, finishing around 9:00 or 10:00 PM.
• Public school teachers have more free time to explore local markets, go hiking, or visit coffee shops.

중국

• Teachers may offer private tutoring or participate in school-organized events.
• Evenings are perfect for exploring local attractions, trying street food, or socializing with fellow teachers.
• Night markets and cultural performances are popular in many cities.

Learn More- Go Overseas

Challenges of Being an ESL Teacher

대한민국

• Adapting to Korean work culture, which values hierarchy and respect.
• Balancing a structured schedule with personal time.
• Learning basic Korean phrases to communicate with students and locals.

중국

• Adjusting to large class sizes (sometimes 40+ students).
• Understanding Chinese educational expectations, which focus on memorization.
• Dealing with visa and work permit procedures.

Rewards of Teaching in South Korea and China

대한민국

• Competitive salary with benefits like housing and health insurance.
• Beautiful scenery, from bustling cities to scenic mountains.
• A strong support system for foreign teachers.

중국

• High demand for English teachers, offering great job stability.
• Affordable cost of living, allowing teachers to save money.
• A rich cultural experience, from historical landmarks to delicious cuisine.

Final Thoughts

Teaching in South Korea and China offers a rewarding experience, both professionally and personally. Whether you prefer Korea’s structured environment or China’s diverse opportunities, ESL teaching in Asia can be a life-changing adventure. If you’re thinking about teaching abroad, research your options, get certified, and take the leap!