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Work and Travel in South Korea

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South Korea is known for its prominent place on any backpacking trip of the Far East. With a long, colourful history, and a noisy neighbour to the north, South Korea has a lot to offer any traveller. So if you want to work and travel in South Korea and gain an experience you won’t find anywhere else, this is the guide for you. Read our travel guide to South Korea to find out more about what’s on offer here. 1. Teach English in South Korea South Korea has long been a home for people who want to teach English. It offers better pay and better working conditions than nearby Japan, in general. Plus, you’ll find it much easier to get around if you don’t know the local language. English teaching work in Korea is available in all the major cities, such as Seoul, Busan, and Gyeonju. You can even find plenty of volunteering opportunities in Korea in the more rural areas. 2. Care for Cats in South Korea Anyone who has ever been to the Far East is aware that cats are a big part of the modern culture. So it should come as no surprise that there are animal shelters in all the major cities. From there, you’ll be able to care for the kitties and play with them. Animal lovers who want to work and travel in South Korea will find this to be the perfect job for them. There are also other types of animal shelters, including for dogs, but cats are by far the most popular option. If you have some prior experience working with animals, you’ll have even more opportunities open to you. 3. Raise Human Rights Concerns in South Korea You’ll find plenty of non-partisan organisations in South Korea dedicated to raising awareness of human rights abuses currently occurring in North Korea. They also help refugees from the northern half of the Korean Peninsula as they make their way into the country and build new lives for themselves. You don’t need to be able to speak Korean. Many assignments involve publishing articles and leaflets in English. You just have to be committed and passionate about human rights.

VOLUNTEER WORK VISA / PERMIT REQUIREMENTS FOR SOUTH KOREA

Westerners will find it easy to enter South Korea. First of all, we must address the outlier. Canadians are the only people in the world who can travel in South Korea for 180 days without obtaining any form of visa . Americans, Mexicans, UK citizens, the European Union (EU), Australians, Kiwis, and the Japanese are entitled to stay in South Korea for 90 days when they touch down. Fore more info click here . Russians, on the other hand, can only stay for 60 days without a visa. South Africans can stay for even less time, with a 30-day visa offered . Other citizens, such as the Chinese, will need to visit a South Korean embassy in order to obtain a visa. As you can imagine, this is an easy and efficient process.

SEASONAL BACKPACKER SKILLS NEEDED IN SOUTH KOREA

Spring work.

South Korea gets to enjoy the full four seasons of the year. This is great because it provides an array of different volunteer opportunities in South Korea throughout the year. Spring time is a fantastic time to work on a farm or join a family in the form of a homestay. The work is hard during the planting season, but it’s one of the best ways to meet real Koreans and learn more about the culture.

SUMMER JOBS

Summer time is another great time to work in South Korea because this is the main tourist season. Many backpackers come to travel in South Korea and work in hostels. Hostels are available in abundance across the nation and it’s easier than ever before to find work in them as a volunteer. They all offer at least free accommodation, and many of them even offer free food. It’s one of the best summer jobs available. Hostel jobs are available throughout the year, but if you’re looking for something more short-term, this is the time to secure one. You could also work in summer camps, where you’ll be able to connect with young Koreans and give them skills that they’ll cherish for the rest of their lives.

Autumn is our favourite time of the year for teaching English in South Korea. Young people return to school and education is such a big part of the culture that learning English is a major priority. It helps if you have a TEFL qualification, but if you’re a native English speaker it’s often enough for you to get a job. There’s often a shortage of native English speakers who want to teach English available.

Snow is common in many parts of South Korea. The mountainous country is an excellent place to ski. Many of the ski resorts across the heart of the country require volunteers for seasonal work. You could find a place at one of these resorts. Most places do demand some prior experience, though, so bear in mind that these volunteering opportunities in South Korea are not easy to find. Generally, there are no other seasonal skills needed in winter. However, many roles in hostels and language schools continue to operate during the winter season.

ATTITUDE TO FOREIGNERS WORKING OR VOLUNTEERING IN SOUTH KOREA

Travel in South Korea and you’ll find a quiet, respectful culture that’s only beaten out by Japan. It’s one of the easiest countries to work and travel in because guests are treated with such a level of respect. And you should return the favour. You’ll experience no issues working or volunteering in the country. It’s common for foreign workers to be here. Do bear in mind, though, that the work culture is hard, with long hours and unexpected overtime to be expected. If you have the right work ethic, you’ll get along fine as you work and travel in South Korea. Do you think work in South Korea is for you?

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South Korea Overview

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Work Abroad in South Korea 

Unearth the hidden work and travel treasure that is South Korea; 'The Land of the Morning Calm'.

A distinctively modern country, South Korea is becoming more and more popular with work and travel enthusiasts, with an accessible Working Holiday visa (of up to two years) making it easier than ever to have a positive impact in this welcoming country.

Vibrant cities such as Seoul have a beautiful charm and personality which endears itself to most who travel there, whilst islands such as Jeju Island hold a tranquil beauty away from the bright lights and busy streets. One constant is the country's deep history and culture, which is deeply embedded no matter where in the country you go.

If you're ready to immerse yourself for up to 12 months teaching in South Korea, then you'll encounter a new world that’s sure to evoke admiration. 

What do I need to work abroad in South Korea?

A working visa is a visa that allows you to work in a foreign country for a period of time. As part of the Teach in Korea program, you will be given visa assistance for obtaining a Foreign Language Instructor Visa.

South Korea's Foreign Language Instructor Visa is tailored for people who qualify for our program. You will benefit from having the option to renew it.

Usual visa requirements apply for the working visa such as a clean criminal history, passport from eligible country etc. One notable requirement of a South Korea Foreign Language Working Visa is having the right educational qualifications, which in our program's case is a Bachelor's degree (in any field).

Learn more about South Korea.

Located in East Asia, South Korea is a country that perfectly preserves its sense of cultural identity while also being a pillar of the modern world. While containing breath taking temples and palaces that were erected centuries ago, recent years have seen the implementation of advanced technology and amazing skyscrapers in the country in locations such as Seoul. So whether you're interested in dynasty era architecture or modern towering marvels, South Korea has you covered.

• Population: 51.74 mn
• Number of Provinces: 9
• Capital: Seoul
• Currency: South Korean won
• Area: 100,210 km²
• Yearly Tourists (approx): 17.5m

Major Cities

• Changwon-si

Despite being recognised for its more recent impact on technological advancement, South Korean culture is rooted in tradition, particularly Confucian culture. South Korean Confucian culture emphasises respect for elders, hierarchical relationships both personally and professionally, and traditional rituals. To learn more about Korean culture while visiting the country, we recommend a trip to the National Museum of Korea in Seoul, which is something that is sure to open your eyes to Korean culture.

Taekwondo is South Korea's national sport, gaining official recognition in 2018. It is a combat sport that heavily involves striking techniques such as kicking. Baseball is arguably South Korea's most popular sport, with KBO league attendance reaching 6.38 million in 2022 . Football follows closely behind baseball's popularity (thanks to global names such as Son Heung Min), and playing recreationally is extremely popular among the country's youth. Any football fans planning to visit the country should make time for a K league (South Korea's national football league) game, which is growing year on year.

When you think of music and Korea, the western influenced K-pop is probably the first thing that comes to mind. Not only popular in Korea, K-pop is a highly commercial throughout all of Asia and even has found a strong following as far as Europe and America. Acts such as BTS and TWICE have taken the world by storm, gaining popularity on a global stage. Traditional Korean music is called Gugak and involves the use of various stringed instruments.

Environment

Much of South Korea has a continental climate, with the extreme south having a more temperate climate. The country also experiences a monsoon season which usually lasts from June to July. The vast climate variation makes for rich biodiversity and diverse ecosystem, meaning it's a dream for those interested in plants, animals, and the wider ecosystem.

Seoul Highlights

For hiking enthusiasts or those who love a good view, Bukhansan National Park is a must-do. Located just outside of Seoul, it’s a spectacular natural landscape with unrivalled views of the city and beyond. Some trails are easier than others, so be sure to scope out what’s best for you before leaving and plan your route to one of the summits.

Who doesn’t love a good viewing gallery of a new city? The N Seoul Tower, well, towers above the city, giving you panoramic views of this intriguing city. You’ll see the mix of old, new, and natural, and you’ll be sure to go away with some of the best photos you’ve taken when here.

The Palace, and the vast grounds it calls home, are an incredible vision through history. Its stark comparison to the city high-rises near it makes for incredible viewing, but the intricate design within is something you have to see. Try to go with a tour guide if possible, as the story alongside the viewing is equally as interesting, giving more meaning to what you can see.

Featured Travel Opportunities

Work in Korea for Foreigners – Build a career in the South

Last modified: May 31, 2024 | 8 min read | By Laura Toyryla

If you’re looking for work opportunities and want to know about work in Korea for foreigners , you’ve come to the right place!

In this article, we’ll go into more detail about work in South Korea for foreigners.

Note: We can’t assist you with finding jobs in South Korea, we specialize in learning Korean , this post is to provide information and point you in the right direction.

Below is a free PDF guide for “Work in Korea for Foreigners” that you can download:

• 1 What to expect for jobs in Korea for foreigners
• 2.1 F-series Visa
• 2.2 Graduate from a Korean University
• 2.3 Apply for jobs in Korea from your home country
• 3 Is speaking Korean necessary for work in Korea?
• 4.1 Craigslist Korea
• 4.2 Saramin
• 4.3 JobKorea
• 4.4 PeopleNJob
• 4.5 LinkedIn
• 4.6 Seoul Global Center
• 4.7 Albamon 알바몬
• 4.8 Albacheonguk 알바천국

What to expect for jobs in Korea for foreigners

The number of foreigners coming to work in Korea has been steadily increasing over the past couple of years. As you might suspect, a good majority of the foreigners working in Asian countries are indeed working in South Korea as native English teachers .

As a popular job, the demand for English teaching positions for native English speakers is very high in South Korea. It’s usually not difficult to get some kind of English teaching job for those with teaching experience, whether in private, public, or cram schools . However, getting the absolute best English teaching jobs in South Korea can be difficult.

Although getting a job in South Korea may not be as easy as it is for an English teacher, it is still possible. However, do bear in mind that there is no single way for you to land a job in this country. Also, note that not every method will work for everyone.

How to get jobs in South Korea as a foreigner

What you need to land a job in South Korea varies. It depends both on your background, on whichever immigration officer you get that day, and on the specific demands of the companies you’re looking to apply to.

F-series Visa

The easiest way to get a non-teaching job as a foreigner is by having an F-series visa. Why is that? Because by having an F-series visa, you no longer need a visa sponsored by the company. This massively broadens your options of companies and job positions to apply to.

Unfortunately, getting that visa isn’t exactly a piece of cake .

Unless you get married to a Korean person, you usually need to have held onto a job (or several jobs in the same field) for a good while before you can qualify for one. So while it’s the easiest way to get a job in South Korea, it’s not an option for newbies.

Graduate from a Korean University

But while working in South Korea for foreigners can be more complicated without that F-series visa, it’s not impossible! Perhaps the second easiest way for a foreigner to get a job in South Korea is by graduating from a Korean university. Recent college graduates and past alumni from universities, whether with a bachelor’s or master’s degree, can do this.

You can demonstrate that you’re already familiar with Korea’s culture and language to a degree. Still, immigration will also be more lax on what kind of jobs you are qualified to apply for. In other words, you’re not strictly limited to only getting a job directly in the field of your university degree.

The only main restriction is that the company has to be able to provide you with visa sponsorship. If they can prove that a Korean can’t do the job, they’ll be able to.

Apply for jobs in Korea from your home country

Unfortunately, for those new to South Korea, it is trickier to land a job. Perhaps the best way to go about it would be to find a company in your own country with branches in South Korea. Make sure you are notified of the latest job alert for Korean job opportunities.

T ry searching for the best one you can find, and make sure to read through the job description carefully. Otherwise, immigration will require the job position to be in the field of your degree with prior working experience.

You will also need to have a few years’ worth of job experience in that field before you’ll qualify for the work visa.

Is speaking Korean necessary for work in Korea?

Knowing how to speak Korean will also help you tremendously. Even knowing a few words and phrases will help, so it’s a good idea to at least know these words and how to construct Korean sentences to start .

Though, do note (and perhaps take a sigh of relief) that most of the companies open to visa sponsorships for foreign employees are looking specifically for those that are fluent in languages other than Korean.

However, understanding and speaking Korean can be very helpful, especially in your daily life . We have an online course that guarantees to teach you how to have a 3-minute conversation in Korean .

Job Seeking Platforms for Foreigners in Korea

Now, it’s time to lay out some methods through which you can get started on your job hunt. One of the quickest ways to find many companies at once is by attending a job fair.

There are two main job fairs arranged every fall. One is for foreign residents in South Korea, and the other is specifically for international students in South Korea.

Besides that, along with networking, there are also several websites out there through which you can find and apply for jobs. Here are a few great examples:

Craigslist Korea

Website: https://seoul.craigslist.co.kr/

This is a hit-or-miss type of job portal. However, the job advertisements are usually in English, and the employees sought after are foreigners. It may not be where you find your dream job, but it’s likely the least intimidating site to start with.

Website: https://www.saramin.co.kr/

Saramin is a website entirely in Korean, so it may be terrifying to navigate through at first. However, this is one of the main job portals for Koreans themselves to find a job, and there are plenty of jobs from different fields posted where they are looking for foreign language speakers.

Website: https://www.jobkorea.co.kr/

Another job portal that is mainly used in Korea is JobKorea. Similar to Saramin, this website is purely in Korean. However, it’s a great site to explore for jobs as there are a lot of job postings, even for foreigners.

Website: https://www.peoplenjob.com/

It is said to be the best job portal to find a job in South Korea for foreigners. It looks overwhelming at first glance, but you’ll be relieved to know that there is also an ample amount of jobs there posted in English.

Website: https://www.linkedin.com/

Unlike the other portals listed here, this is the main place where you can find all the big foreign companies looking for employees in their Korean branches. Companies have job postings all the time, and you can get notifications right on your phone, too!

Seoul Global Center

Website: https://global.seoul.go.kr/

The Seoul Global Center is a helpful place for foreigners living in Seoul. They offer services like counseling, help with starting a business, and cultural exchange programs. It’s a great resource if you’re new to the city or need support while living in Seoul. 

Albamon 알바몬

Website: https://www.albamon.com/

Albamon (알바몬) is a popular job search website specializing in part-time jobs in South Korea. It helps people find various types of part-time work, offering job listings across different regions and industries. Users can search for jobs, apply directly, and get useful information about working conditions and pay. It’s a great resource for students, part-timers, and anyone looking for flexible employment options. 

Albacheonguk 알바천국

Website: https://www.alba.co.kr/

Albacheonguk (알바천국) is a well-known job search website in South Korea that focuses on part-time employment opportunities. It offers a wide range of job listings across various industries and regions, helping users find suitable part-time work. The site also provides useful resources for job seekers, such as resume tips and interview advice.

Once you land an interview, be sure you’re familiar with proper Korean business etiquette  so you make an excellent first impression. Familiarizing yourself with the work culture in South Korea will also help you become more prepared.

Good luck with your job hunt! Do you know great ways to find a job in South Korea? Let us know in the comments below!

Photo Credit: BigStockPhoto

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7 thoughts on “Work in Korea for Foreigners – Build a career in the South”

Hello, I am a teacher by profession and currently teach English in Uganda. However, My husband has been posted to South Korea where he will be working for 2 years and he has to travel with his family. What are the options of getting a teaching job in Korea during my stay there.

Hi Hillary! There are tons of great opportunity to teach English in Korea. Just make sure you also have a work visa. ^^

Hi, I live in Greece and I would like to work in Korea as an administrative assistant. Do you know if that is possible? Thank you.

Your best bet might be to find a multinational company that has an office in Korea. Maybe you can find a Greek company that has a presence in Korea and reach out to them. ^^

Hello there!

Check HireDivetsity website there an administration assistant position for Credit Suisse. You never know

Hello! We are Hirediversity, we are helping international students seeking jobs in Korea. As a result, we opened a job posting site on February 2019. In addition, we provide advice on visas and labor relations (Four Major Insurance and Working Hours), which resulted in helping 300 students to find jobs in Korean Companies. Furthermore, we have carried out campaigns with around 150 Korean Companies to hire international students.

We want to create a new global standard for the “Foreign Job Seeking” market. We want to simplify the process with IT technology, eliminate asymmetric information to match the needs of both employers and prospective employees. We want to provide a new/valuable experience to both sides through the data we obtain.

come and check our jobseeking website “hirediversity”

Thanks for the comment! ^^

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Mar. 17, 2023 Posted in News , Working Holiday , South Korea Share Post

How to Work in South Korea

Thinking about moving to the land of Kimchi, Soju, and Squid Game? Then chances are you’re wondering how to find work in South Korea as a foreigner. With the South Korean Working Holiday Visa, you will be able to achieve your dreams of living and working in South Korea for up to a year. So, if you want to ride the K-wave, read on to learn how to find a job in South Korea…

Jobs in South Korea

We cover the South Korean Working Holiday Visa in depth in this Korea Working Holiday Visa guide , however, to summarize, this visa allows you to work for pay up to 25 hours per week to help fund your travels.

Although working in South Korea as a Canadian can be tricky as most of us don’t speak Korean, there are still plenty of English-speaking jobs. The most popular English jobs in Korea for foreigners on a Working Holiday Visa include:

HOSPITALITY

New businesses are consistently opening in metropolitan cities, meaning South Korea is full of hospitality opportunities. This includes hotels, restaurants, and cafes in busy tourist areas where English is used more frequently. In some businesses, you may even be able to work in exchange for accommodation, which will offset your expenses significantly!

CUSTOMER SERVICE

Large retail chains and other businesses in tourist areas also need staff who are able to speak English. However, having conversational Korean would typically be required for most positions so you can assist local Korean customers.

LANGUAGE CAFÉ

Although there is a separate visa for English instructors, a part-time, casual position at language cafes does not require the strict qualifications that a traditional school or academy does. Language cafes only need native English speakers who want to have fun with young Korean children!

How to Find Work in South Korea

There are job opportunities for Canadians in Korea if you know how to find them. There are several sites that focus specifically on jobs for international workers. Plus, employers that post on these websites have experience hiring foreigners and don’t expect applicants to speak Korean.

Be sure to start your job search by being open, flexible and managing your expectations. Remember that finding a job in a foreign country is not as easy as finding a job in Canada, which is why it is important to consider lots of different types of jobs. This means applying to as many positions as you can to increase your chances of getting an interview.

When it comes to finding work in South Korea, it can be difficult to figure out where to start your search. In almost all cases, you will not be considered for a position until after you have arrived in Korea. At Stepabroad, we provide the resources you need to help you find a job faster. We go over which industries are easier to find jobs in and which websites are best to help in your search.

How to Find Accommodation

Sharehouses are a common type of housing for foreigners in Korea because it gives them the opportunity to meet locals and other expats alike. They also help new arrivals to build a sense of community and tend to be cheaper than finding a long-term private apartment. Monthly contracts provide the stability that you need to continue to save, while also allowing the flexibility to move to other parts of Korea if you wish!

Stepabroad provides resources on where to find accommodation opportunities in Korea, from housing agents to Facebook groups!

Where to Work in South Korea

Seoul needs no introduction as the capital and the biggest city of South Korea. You will never be out of things to do here, from nightlife to palaces to hiking spots!

Busan is a beach city tucked in the southeastern province of the peninsula. It has a laidback vibe, but still boasts 3.4 million in population size! If you’d like a warmer climate with pretty beaches and a casual atmosphere, Busan is a great city to live in!

Incheon is the third largest city just 30-60 minutes from Seoul via metro. It is cheaper than Seoul and also home to the Incheon International Airport. If you would offset your living expenses while having close access to Seoul, Incheon may give you a little more authentic experience of living in Korea!

Cost of Living in Korea

Just like in other countries, the cost of living in Korea depends entirely on which city or town you settle in. The capital of Seoul is the most expensive place in Korea, but also the place where you can find more opportunities and many other expats. Here is a breakdown of the average cost of living per month in Seoul:

RENT: $700 CAD

For your rent, let’s assume that you are living in a room in a shared house. As a rule of thumb, the cost of rent will range from $500-800 CAD. For a private apartment, budget $1,000 CAD.

TRANSPORTATION: $50 CAD

Once you get your transportation card, your transportation costs shouldn’t be too high – as long as you don’t take taxis all the time! South Korea has one of the best public transportation systems in the world, so take advantage of the very punctual, clean subways, buses, and trains.

GROCERIES: $300 CAD

Eating out can be relatively cheap in South Korea, with a hot bowl of rice and soup costing around $7 per meal. Groceries are a bit on the expensive side, due to inflation.

FUN: $200 CAD

From sightseeing to entertainment, South Korea has tons of things to do throughout the year. Simply taking public transport and walking around is a great option if you’d like to save.

Want to Work in South Korea?

We’re giving one intrepid traveller the opportunity to participate in a trial program for the South Korea Working Holiday Visa. Click to learn more about the program and how you can apply today!

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Work in South Korea

South Korea is a fascinating cultural destination with modern cities, friendly people and some of the tastiest food in Asia. Korean people are proud of their heritage and culture, with good reason. Once you get a glimpse of the ‘real’ Korea, there is much to love about living here.

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Global Work & Travel Global Work & Travel – Get Paid To See South Korea! Teach. Flights, Tours & 24/7 Support Team.

International TEFL and TESOL Training Take a TEFL certification course with International TEFL and TESOL Training and get a recognised qualification to teach English in Korea.

Country Facts

• Population: 51 million • Capital city: Seoul • Official language: Korean • Currency: South Korean Won (KRW) • Minimum wage: 8,350 KRW/hour

Best Places to Work

Most companies are based in the largest cities in South Korea and this is where most foreigners find jobs, including:

• Seoul • Busan • Incheon • Daegu • Daejeon

How to Work in South Korea

Finding paid working South Korea as a foreigner can be difficult unless you are employed by a multinational company. Some global companies have offices all around the world including Korea. Industries like tourism, IT, business, translation, programming and teaching employ foreigners. Usually you will need a basic understanding of Korean, this will really boost your chances of integrating into Korean society and also finding employment.

Teaching Work in Korea

One of the most popular option for foreigners to live in Korea is teaching English . The education market here is one of the strongest in the world and thousands of foreign language teachers are employed every year. The demand for native speaker English teachers in Korea far outstrips the supply, so competition for jobs is much less acute in Korea than in Japan. More than two-thirds of the work available is teaching young children and adolescents so any native speaker with enthusiasm for working with children will have a large choice of job offers. The main TEFL regions are Seoul & Pusan but jobs can be found throughout South Korea. Salaries typically range from US$1600 to US$1800 a month, with 5 – 10% taken for tax, depending on the location. Contracts run from 6 to 12 months. Teachers must be native English speakers and university Degree holders.

To get a valid work permit you must have a University degree. Work permits are issued at consulates outside Korea. It is common for teachers to enter the country on a tourist visa and begin work then later take their documentation on a “visa run” to a consulate in a nearby country, usually Fukuoka, Japan.

Country Facts Area: 99,373 sq km Population: 48 million Capital City: Seoul (pop 10.3 million) Language: Korean Time Zone: GMT/UTC +9 Dialling Code: 82 Electricity: 220V, 60Hz Weights & measures: Metric Religion: 25% Christianity, 25% Buddhism, Confucianism, Shamanism, 50% none. Major Industries: Shipbuilding, cars, machinery, electronics, chemicals, textiles

Culture South Korean culture is strongly influenced by China and Japan and the country is a blend of super modern new technology and old ancient temples.

History Korea was occupied by Japan from the beginning of the twentieth century up to the end of the Second World War, after which a republic was set up in the southern half of the Korean Peninsula while a Communist-style government was installed in the north. During the Korean War (1950-1953), U.S. and other UN forces intervened to defend South Korea from North Korean attacks. An armistice was signed in 1953, splitting the peninsula along a demilitarized zone at about the 38th parallel. Thereafter, South Korea achieved rapid economic growth with per capita income rising to roughly 18 times the level of North Korea. South Korea remains an economic power house.

Climate South Korea’s climate is temperate, with rainfall heavier in summer than winter. The terrain consists of mostly hills and mountains, with wide coastal plains in the west and south. It is a stunning landscape worthy of the pride the Koreans have for it.

Currency The currency of South Korea is the Won. (Currency code: KRW). Coin denominations are W10, W50, W100, and W500. Banknotes are W1,000, W5,000 and W10,000. Foreign banknotes can be easily converted into the Korean Won at foreign exchange banks and other authorized money exchangers.

Working hours People in South Korea work hard, and in 2020, a new policy was introduced that limited the weekly working hours to 52 hours per week. This is still high compared to Europe and North America standards. What your working schedule is really depends on the employer and role. 

Safety South Korea is one of the safest countries in the world, with very low crime rates. Even with the language barrier local people are very friendly and hospitable. 

Events The first day of the first moon is Seollal (lunar new year; January/February), when South Korea grinds to a halt. The Cherry Blossom Festival in Jinhae in the province of Gyeongsangnam-do usually falls in early April (if the weather and trees cooperate). Lantern parades are held for Buddha’s Birthday, celebrated in late April or early May. In Seoul, there is an evening parade from Tapgol Park to Jogyesa on the Sunday prior to the actual holiday. June sees processions of shamans and mask dances at the Dano Festival, and in September the National Folk Arts Festival showcases Korean culture. South Korea’s biggest holiday is Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving). At this time (September/October), cities throughout the country empty as people return to their family homes to pay homage to their ancestors.

Public Holidays 1 January: New Year’s Day 3 February: Folklore Day 26 February: Taeborum 1 March: Independence Movement Day 10 March: Labour Day 5 April: Day of Trees 5 May: Children’s Day 24 May: Buddha’s Birthday 6 June: Memorial Day 15 June: Tano 17 July: Constitution Day 15 August: Liberation Day 18 September: Mid-Autumn Festival 3 October: National Day 25 December: Christmas Day

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South Korea

Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

South korea - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in South Korea.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to South Korea.

If you decide to travel to South Korea:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
• Review the  Country Security Report  for South Korea.   
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.   
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .    

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

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No – From April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, the Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) is not required for US citizens traveling for short-term business or tourism purposes.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy seoul.

188 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03141, Korea Telephone: +(82) (2) 397-4114 (from within Korea, dial 02-397-4114)  DSN:721-4114 Fax: +(82) (2) 397-4101 Email:  [email protected]

U.S. Consulate in Busan

Lotte Gold Rose Building #612, Jungang-daero 993, Jin-gu Busan 47209, Korea Telephone: (+82) 51-863-0731 Email:  [email protected]

The Embassy and Consulate are closed on weekends and on  American and Korean holidays .  Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +82 (2) 397-4114.

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

• You must have a valid U.S. passport to enter Korea. From April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, the  Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA)  is not required for US citizens for stays of 90 days or less that are for tourism or business purposes.
• Visa required for all other purposes, including employment, teaching English, and for stays longer than 90 days.

Exceeding your authorized stay or not possessing a valid visa may result in detention and fines.

• In the event of an overstay, apply for a visa extension from the  Korea Immigration Service (KIS)  before attempting to leave the country. Also consult with KIS regarding changes in visa category.

Military Personnel/DOD and their families on orders:

• Consult  DOD Foreign Clearance Guide , and follow all instructions.
• Enter Korea with DOD identification and travel orders.
• Do not transit other countries such as China without a passport and appropriate visas.
• Family Members/Dependents of Military Personnel/DOD on orders must present upon arrival passports valid for at least six months .

U.S. Government Executive Branch personnel on official business and DOD personnel assigned to the U.S. Embassy  (Including family members/dependents):

• Employes assigned to Mission Korea should enter Korea with a diplomatic or official passport and a diplomatic or official Korean visa obtained through their sponsoring agency.  Check with your sponsoring agency about other requirements. 
• TDY visitors traveling to Korea for up to 90 days on diplomatic or official passports do  not  require Korean visas and do  not  require a K-ETA. TDY visitors must obtain country clearance using  Department of State's eCC system  or  DOD APACS system .

HIV/AIDS Restriction:  The Department of State is unaware of any such entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents in Korea.

• Visit the  Embassy of Korea  website for current visa information. Please read our  Customs Information page .

COVID-19 Requirements :

• There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.
• Travel regulations and restrictions are subject to change, sometimes with little notice. You should review the information available on your nearest Korean Embassy or Consulate’s webpage before traveling.

Safety and Security

Public Demonstrations:  Demonstrations and rallies are common in South Korea, particularly near the U.S. Embassy, Seoul City Hall, and areas surrounding military installations. You should avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or rallies. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.

North Korea (The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, DPRK):  An armistice agreement, monitored by the United Nations, has maintained general peace on the Korean peninsula since 1953. Tensions occasionally flare up because of provocative acts by North Korea, including ballistic missile and nuclear tests and limited armed incursions into ROK-held territory. Some provocations have escalated into geographically limited skirmishes. South Korea routinely conducts military training exercises and civil defense drills. North Korea often issues strongly-worded and threatening messages, frequently in connection with these exercises. Please see our  Fact Sheet on North Korea .

Weather-related Events:  Heavy rains and flooding may occur during the June - August monsoon season or the May - November typhoon season. See general information about natural disaster preparedness at the U.S.  Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)  website.

Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ):  To receive security messages by email and make it easier to locate you in an emergency, register in STEP. 

If the Embassy becomes aware of any specific and credible threat to the safety and security of U.S. citizens, we will inform you through our website, social media, and email.

Crime:  For most visitors, South Korea remains a very safe country. Common crimes occur more frequently in major metropolitan areas, tourist sites, and crowded markets.

• Take routine safety precautions.
• Pay attention to your surroundings.
• Report any concerns to local police.

Violent crime is not common; however, remain vigilant:

• Exercise caution in crowded entertainment, nightlife, and shopping districts.
• If traveling at night, consider traveling in groups.
• Use legitimate taxis or public transportation only.

Victims of Crime:  Call 112 for emergency assistance or to report a crime to local authorities. Call 02-397-4114 to contact the U.S. Embassy. We can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care;
• Assist you in reporting a crime to police;
• Contact relatives or friends on your behalf;
• Explain Korean judicial procedures in general terms;
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
• Help you find accommodations and flight arrangements to the United States;
• Replace a lost or stolen passport.

Sexual Assault:   The Embassy regularly receives reports of sexual assault from U.S. citizens. Most cases involved young women assaulted by acquaintances they met on social media, dating, or messaging apps. Alcohol is often involved, and Korea’s low overall crime can create a false sense of security.  Specialized hospital units and police are available in South Korea to assist victims, however services in English and responsiveness to the crime are not always consistent. In general, sex crimes are not punished as harshly in South Korea as in the United States and the road to prosecution is a challenging one for victims.

Domestic Violence:  Victim’s assistance resources or battered women’s shelters exist in Seoul and other urban areas but may be limited in rural areas. Most are government administered and require a police referral. Call 112 for emergency assistance or 1366 to reach Korea’s 24-hour domestic violence hotline. Victims may also contact the Embassy, tel. (+82) 2-397-4114.

Lost or Stolen Passports:  If your passport is stolen, file a report at the nearest police station.

Don't buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if widely available.  It is against South Korean law to purchase these goods and against U.S. law to bring them into the United States. The  Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Division in the U.S. Department of Justice  has more information.

Avoid fraud and scams:  See  Department of State  and  FBI  websites for more information.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  While in Korea, you are subject to local laws. If you violate Korean laws, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Be aware that:

• Immigration violations can lead to arrest, fines, and deportation.
• There is little tolerance for illegal drugs.
• If you mail illegal drugs to/ from Korea, you will be prosecuted.
• Commercial disputes may lead to criminal charges being filed under local laws.

Be aware that some crimes are prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the Embassy. See our  webpage  for further information.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES

Dual Nationality and Military Conscription:  Dual national males (including U.S. service members) may be subject to compulsory military service. If you have family ties to South Korea, consult the nearest Korean Embassy or Consulate or the  Korean Military Manpower Administration  regarding potential citizenship obligations  before entering South Korea .

Passport Seizures and Exit Bans:  If you are involved in a criminal investigation or commercial dispute, authorities may seize your passport and/or block your departure. While we may reissue a passport, we cannot lift an exit ban.

Exit Permits:  Exit permits are not generally required. However, if a parent requests a travel restriction on his/her child, Korean authorities may prevent that child from departing even when traveling with the other parent. As of June 1, 2020, foreigners who are long-term residents of the ROK are required to obtain a re-entry permit four business days prior to departure from Korea. The permits are available online through an e-application at the  www.hikorea.go.kr  website.

International Child Abduction:  See our website for information related to the  prevention of international child abduction . 

Working in South Korea:  If working, including teaching or modeling, you must enter with the appropriate work visa. It is not possible to change your visa status without leaving the country. If you begin work without the appropriate visa, you may be arrested, fined, and/or deported. If you are working without a valid work permit and get into a contractual dispute with your employer, you have little legal recourse.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

ROK National Security Law:  Authorities may detain, arrest, and imprison persons believed to have committed acts intended to endanger the “security of the state,” including statements deemed to praise the political system and/or officials of the DPRK. 

Customs Regulations: There is strict enforcement of regulations on importing and exporting items such as firearms, narcotics and prescription drugs, non-prescription health supplements, radio equipment, and gold. Importation of materials deemed to be obscene, subversive, or harmful to the public peace is also restricted.

• Amphetamines are illegal in Korea. Do not bring amphetamines or other prescription narcotics into the country without obtaining advance permission in writing from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. See the  U.S. Embassy Seoul, Health Information page .
• Traveling with Pets: See  Korea’s Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency  website.

See the  Korean Customs Regulations website for complete information.

LGBTI Travelers:  Consensual same-sex sexual activity is not criminalized. Korea is a conservative country in regards to LGBTI issues. However, there are an increasing number of LGBTI-oriented clubs, festivals and NGOs advocating for LGBTI issues. The ROK National Human Rights Commission Act prohibits discrimination against individuals because of their sexual orientation, but there are no laws specifying punishment for persons found to have discriminated on this basis. Same-sex marriages are not recognized. Korean citizens can legally change their gender identity.

See   our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of the  Department of State's Human Rights report  for further details.

Mobility Issues:  Korean law mandates access to transportation, communication, and public buildings. Cross walks typically have audio and visual signals. Older buildings and streets are generally less accessible than modern ones. Metro cars and buses in Seoul offer priority seating for the disabled and most metro stations have elevators. Metro platforms include Korean Braille information. Contact individual bus companies and subway associations for specific information. Foreign residents are eligible for disability assistance from local ward offices; assistance varies by ward.

Quality of Care : Western-style medical facilities are available in most large cities. However, not all doctors and staff, are proficient in English. A  list of hospitals  and medical specialists who speak English is available on our website. For emergency ambulance service dial 119. Ambulance services are widely available. For information on medical evacuation from South Korea, please see the State Department’s brochure on  Air Ambulance/MedEvac/Medical Escort Providers . 

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. Verify your health insurance coverage before traveling overseas. See our webpage for information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage . In most cases, health care providers will require payment in advance of treatment or will not release a patient until hospital bills are paid. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to include coverage for medical evacuation.

Medication:  Carry prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Most prescription medications, except psychotropic types, can be obtained at Korean pharmacies (brand names often differ). Local pharmacies will require a prescription from a Korean doctor.

Update  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

For further health information go to:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Roads are well-paved, traffic signals functional, and most drivers comply with basic traffic laws. South Korea has a significantly higher traffic fatality rate than the United States. Causes of accidents include excessive speed, frequent lane changes without signaling, running red lights, aggressive bus drivers, and weaving motorcyclists. It is recommended that you photo document any traffic accidents.

Be aware that motorcyclists may drive on sidewalks, and drivers do not always yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks.

Traffic Laws include:

• International driving permit (or ROK license) is required for all drivers.
• Left-hand turns prohibited except with green arrow.
• Seat belts and car seats are mandatory.
• Motorcycle passengers must wear helmets.
• Automobile drivers are presumed to have some fault in accidents involving pedestrians.
• Expect long waits at police stations while police investigate any incidents.
• Police may take your passport or detain you during an investigation.
• Even if negligence is not proven, criminal charges may be filed.
• Blood-alcohol content of 0.03% or higher is considered legally intoxicated.
• Police regularly set up DUI checkpoints. Drivers are required to submit to breathalyzer tests; refusal can result in cancellation of your license.

For information about driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance, refer to our  Road Safety page . You may also visit the  Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) website.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of the Republic of Korea's Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the ROK's air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA's Safety Assessment Page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to South Korea should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at the U.S. Department of Transportation’s  Maritime Security Communications with Industry Web Portal . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and as a broadcast warning on the  National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s website .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

South Korea was cited in the State Department’s 2022 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  South Korea.  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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A Guide on Jobs in South Korea for Foreigners

• July 1, 2024

108 Comments

Do you want to get jobs in South Korea but don’t know how?

You are not alone — People from far and wide dream of moving there for many good reasons, including employment.

Well, the good news is, you can.

But how easy or difficult is it to find a job in Korea? What are the pros and cons? What do you need, and which visa to get? When and how to apply? 

This article covers all you need to know about jobs in South Korea for foreigners.

So, let’s begin right in!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Job prospects in korea, benefits of working in south korea, (i) english teacher, (ii) office and other jobs for foreigners, (iii) eps – employment permit system, do you need to speak korean to work in korea, where to look for jobs, procedures and preparation, (i) working hours, (ii) holidays, (iii) tax rates, (iv) cost of living, (v) major cities, (i) professor- e-1 visa, (ii) e-2 foreign language instructor visa, (iii) guidance on technological issues- e-4 visa, (iv) special profession – e-5 visa, (iv) activities with a unique design- e-7 visa, (v) study abroad visa, (vi) other visas, should you consider working in korea, why work in south korea.

The real question is: why not?

South Korea, or Daehan Minguk as the natives call it, is a country garnering worldwide attention.

Starting from being Asia’s fourth-largest economy to housing big market players like Samsung, LG, Hyundai, and POSCO, it has a robust economy.

Just look at the pictures of major cities like Seoul, Busan, Incheon, or Daegu. I’m sure it would captivate you with the beauty of high-rise buildings and picturesque streets co-existing in one space.

South Korea has taken the world by storm with its well-known booming entertainment industry. As an outcome, it has already become a potential cultural superpower internationally.

It is also home to a rich, colorful, and aesthetic culture that aims to establish calm, peace, and prosperity.

South Korean cuisine is another reason to consider working in or even visiting there profoundly. It caters to all tastes and makes you feel at home with its flavors and ‘visual’ (Korean slang for anything that looks picture-perfect).

If, at this juncture, you are considering exploring this beautiful country (and I’m sure you are), working there would be an ideal way to do it.

It gives you a good and complete experience of all aspects of the culture and lifestyle. Also, it is easy for you to get a visa.

As far as economic development is concerned, South Korea is one of the most promising countries in Asia.

Because of the ever-growing expansion of big companies and the increase of new businesses, Korea’s job market is enormous and maturing.

South Koreans are now finding it difficult to break into the Korean job market. Instead, they seek prospective employment in countries like China, Japan, Europe, and the United States.

There is a rising necessity for people who speak other languages beyond the native language of Korea. And that’s why foreigners are more welcome in the employment scenario.

Before diving into it, keep a few things in mind.

Koreans are native speakers and have a better cultural understanding than foreigners. Thus, they will always have an edge. So, instead of competing with Koreans, focus on jobs you can do better than them.

Find a niche and work where your credentials and background can help the company.

For example, a German will do better for a Korean company that deals with a German-speaking region.

As a foreigner, you will be more valuable if your expertise is rare in Korea. Or your task involves communicating with international clients, especially from your home country.

In the heavy competition, you will probably get a job opportunity as an ex-pat in South Korea than native Korean citizens.

We can attribute this mainly to how the country’s image in the global perspective changes and grows. As a result, the number of foreign enterprises and ties increases exponentially.

You can see the prospect once you know some basic Korean language skills. You can use some Korean learning apps like Ling app .

You can take the TOPIK exam. You also get employed in South Korea to bring diversity and contribute to and develop these ties.

Korean culture places heavy emphasis on human relations and welfare. Thus, Koreans consider human capital to be of great importance and ensure investing in and maintaining it.

This would mean you would get top-notch benefits as a part of the Korean workforce.

The advantages provided would differ from one organization to another. But rest assured, your life as an employee in South Korea has many things to look forward to.

Self-improvement is one of the outstanding values in South Korea.

Thus, you can expect the company to offer courses, workshops, and more to help you improve and become better in your field.

Most Korean organizations, large and small, offer lunch in some form or another. Also, many prominent corporations often have an on-site restaurant or cafeteria serving various lunches.

The better the cuisine, the larger the company and it doesn’t just end at lunch; some corporations will even go ahead to provide breakfast and supper.

Korea’s social security system contributes to the national health insurance system. So, once you are a registered South Korean resident, you can join the public health insurance system despite being a foreigner.

The incentives and motivations for jobs in South Korea are many!

What are the jobs for foreigners in Korea?

South Korea has a high demand for foreigners in various fields. More and more job openings are available now than ever before. The prospects for work are not limited to a few industries but across the board.

Some of these positions won’t require you to have fluent Korean! But, of course, a higher Korean level can help you get more job opportunities.

But don’t let that bring your hopes down. You still have many options. So, let’s look at some of the most popular jobs for foreigners working in Korea.

A teacher is the most accessible and great job for a foreigner. In particular if you are teaching English in South Korea as a second language (ESL). It is the most common way to start a career in Korea.

South Korea has a lot of demand for English speakers. As a result, English teachers are sought after across the country. You can also find job postings all year round.

It is not only in schools, tuition centers, colleges, andg corporations for their employees.

You can work for government public schools like EPIK, SMOE, GEPIK, GOE, TaLK, or private centers (Hagwon).

Besides a certificate for an English test like TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA, you must have a bachelor’s degree. It will certainly help if you have prior teaching experience. But it’s not a necessity.

You can apply if you are a native English speaker from the UK, Canada, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, or South Africa. 

You can also do this if you speak fluent English and come from a country with an arrangement with the Korean government. For example, Indians are eligible to apply under the CEPA agreement.

Based on my understanding and what I read, they prefer native speakers. Still, you can apply if you have an excellent native accent, the required certificate, and a superior track record.

As an English teacher in Korea, you can make decent money and get one-of-a-kind personal and professional experience. You’ll quickly get a working visa and live in the place of your dreams.

Teachers also receive financial benefits, such as accommodation and travel expense compensation. This makes this line of work very popular among those wishing to move to South Korea for a job.

Since you will teach English, your lessons and work will be entirely in English.

You don’t need to be good at Korean. But, of course, knowing a little would be helpful.

The great news is that you will learn by immersion, even though Korean is a hard language .

South Korea is also a fast-expanding economy with job openings spread across industries. This includes but is not limited to manufacturing, auto, information technology, healthcare, finance, and more.

Besides, the startup sector is thriving and expanding at a rapid pace.

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, has a thriving startup ecosystem and has spent 1.6 billion dollars to expand it in the coming years.

Despite the epidemic, the government has invested in and supported startups amid the crisis.

Other significant work lines famous in South Korea include marketing, entertainment, programming, sales, human relations, public relations, project management, etc.

Such professions require you to be an expert in them. So, employers prefer you over other applicants or locals in the same field.

You can also work as a Korean translator , interpreter, content creator, and other work-demanding language abilities.

Of course, the most popular combination is English and Korean. But there is also a demand for other languages, including less-spoken ones.

Average salaries for such jobs range from USD 1,200 to 4,000 per month. But, of course, this depends on the position, experience, and skills. 

Self-employment and freelancing are also very common in South Korea among foreigners.

The opportunities are many. But competition is equally stiff, making it a mixed possibility.

Self-employment is so widely recognized in South Korea that freelancers must show they are qualified. They do not need to be professional and committed employees.

However, being superb at your desired line of work and fluent in Korean will give you many splendid chances.

The minimum wage policy has a lot of importance in South Korea. The minimum pay rate is around 9,160 won or US$8 per hour. This translates to around INR 600.

This means you can earn a minimum of 1.3 million won or a little over 100 USD monthly on just minimum earnings.

Besides teaching and various white-collar and high-paying jobs in Korea, there are also EPS of migrant workers.

The Employment Permit System ( EPS ) was introduced in 2004. It provides better treatment for migrant laborers (lower-skilled professions) in Korea.

This requires employees to work in construction, fishery, manufacturing, agriculture, and various heavy and light industries.

From the date of approval, EPS jobs are valid for one year. Ultimately, you will receive an E-9 visa (working visa) if all goes well.

The Korean government has signed MoUs with 16 countries whose citizens are eligible to apply. Examples are the Philippines, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Mongolia, Vietnam, and Nepal. India isn’t a listed nation.

In addition to age between 19 and 39 and mental and physical fitness, you must take the EPS-TOPIK exam . This will boost your chances.

Requirement for employment

Some basic requirements are standard across all employment options. For example, you must have a university diploma to find employment in South Korea.

Plus, your degree must be in an area related to the job you’re looking for.

The specific conditions would differ based on the company and industry that you are applying to.

For example, you might require a TEFL certificate to become an English teacher. Likewise, a management position might demand some prior work experience. Your experience, good health, and no previous criminal record matter too!

Koreans, especially those in big cities, know some English. This is because most schools and universities teach English. Still, they do not speak well and only understand a bit here and there, mainly written.

Some jobs ask for Korean language ability , but many others do not.

If you are teaching English, you do not need to know Korean. Students are there to learn the language. So, institutions encourage them to converse in English with native teachers.

Although you don’t need to be fluent in Korean, beginner learning will benefit you.

I suggest getting functioning knowledge, including the alphabet Hangul and some day-to-day vocabulary and expressions.

Employers certainly prefer employees who speak Korean or are willing to study it. This enables them to better blend with their counterparts and working surroundings.

Language plays a vital role in jobs that require dealing with the local population.

For instance, speaking Korean isn’t optional but compulsory if you work in a hospital or big shop. Plus, for a career involving Korean , you need to be fluent.

You get enough time to learn, practice, and improve your Korean with locals when you stay there. Besides the many options, you will do it in natural settings and the most authentic way.

The simplest option is to look for online postings of job openings that companies would upload. Some leading websites include Job Korea, Saramin, Global Korea Center, People N Job , LinkedIn, Work-Net, Craigslist, etc.

If you intend to teach English there, you can try some specific ESL-based sites, agencies that work as mediators, and job boards.

Examples are Dave’s ESL Cafe, Korvia, Gone2Korea, CIEE, English Work, Teach Away, Footprints, Reach to Teach, Teach ESL, Hands Korea, Work N Play, etc.

Plus, you can find job vacancies in English newspapers like The Korea Times, The Korea Herald, and The Seoul Times.

You could also look for opportunities through newspaper listings after moving to South Korea if you could manage the initial expenses.

This has the advantage of attending in-person or walk-in interviews and making a better impression on potential employers.

South Koreans pay attention to detail and prefer certain specifics to be followed. As a result, many companies even have a standard CV format and specifications.

South Korean CVs are often short, comprising specific keywords rather than phrases. Try to stick to the standard format as much as possible.

A note is that Korean job candidates frequently discuss their professional development, schooling and educational qualifications, and character. And also the reasons for applying for the position they are looking for.

First impressions matter a lot for South Koreans.

They place a lot of importance on appearance, etiquette, and manners. So, be dressed impeccably and in a formal outfit appropriate for the position you are applying for.

When meeting someone in Korea, bowing rather than shaking hands is customary. Shake the hand of the interviewer only if they start it. Being humble yet confident in yourself will give you an edge in interviews.

Punctuality is essential in an interview. Try to arrive 10—15 minutes before an interview in Korea. If possible, bring hard copies of your resume in English and Korean.

Work Culture in South Korea

South Korea is still a traditional society. But, it believes in incorporating its long-standing values of respect, hierarchy, and humility into a modern culture without losing its core values.

Even after the slow but steady increase in the number of foreigners, most customs remain, especially in their work culture and approach to human relations.

Since South Koreans believe in spending time with each other to build strong bonds, it is not uncommon for the team leader to take the team out for dinners or drinks.

Team dinners, called Hweshik, are a regular activity in South Korean companies to relieve stress. Besides, it forges deeper relations with your colleagues.

South Koreans value respect even for strangers, and thus, if you meet someone for the first time, wait for a third person (if present) to introduce you.

It will help to address someone by their formal title and your own.

Hierarchy is a crucial aspect of South Korean work culture. Thus, it is common to have clear distinctions in mannerisms between hierarchies.

For example, seniority is highly valued in Korea by age and occupation.

Points to consider for jobs in Korea

Here are a few points to remember before applying for any job in Korea.

South Korea has a long history of working long hours; the typical workweek is 52 hours (40 regular hours plus 12 hours of overtime).

The number of public holidays varies from year to year, ranging from 10 to 16. This is because your paid annual leave grows each year you work for your employer.

Workers in South Korea must pay income tax and health and pension insurance. The income tax rate varies between 8% and 35 percent.

The cost of living varies depending on where you live and how you live. Public transportation and utilities are both reasonably priced.

South Korean cuisine is substantially less expensive than Western cuisine. Marketplaces and small businesses are cheaper than big stores.

Seoul, the capital city, is the most common choice among foreigners for its ease of living for English-speaking people.

Busan and Daegu are also excellent cities for opportunities as they are still expanding and face high demands.

Incheon or Jeju are perfect options for those looking for a slightly lower cost of living. But your Korean language skills must be higher in cities like Incheon and Jeju.

Types of Visas for Jobs in Korea

You must get a visa before leaving there to work in South Korea or stay for over 90 days.

Depending on the profession, there are many types of work visas . Still, the following are some common types:

This visa is for foreigners who want to teach or research at educational institutions above the college level.

While the usual validity is for one year in some situations, they may permit you to remain as long as you require, with five-year renewals possible.

This is a popular visa in Korea. It is one of the easier to get as you need a Bachelor’s degree, a criminal background check, and a sponsor company.

You can teach languages at private academies, public schools, and similar institutions with it. They give multiple-entry visas for 13 months; you can renew after 1 year.

This visa is for ex-pats with knowledge of natural science or high technology. A public or private entity must have invited them. Also, the one who has abilities that are not available in Korea.

The multiple-entry visa has a one-year validity period, while the single-entry access is good for three months.

This visa is available to architects, attorneys, medics, accountants, and other professionals. They must be globally licensed. They also need authorization to practice their field of expertise from the Korean government.

The multiple-entry visa has a one-year validity period; single-entry access is good for three months.

This aims at ex-pats who engage in the Korean Ministry of Justice-sponsored programs. This is through a public or private organization.

Multiple-entry visas are valid for one to three years; a single-entry pass is good for three months.

As an international student in Korea , you can work part-time there if you speak some Korean. But there are some conditions.

For example, you need to take a separate part-time work visa (S3) other than a D-type study visa. And you can only apply after a minimum of 6 months from the arrival date.

Plus, you must receive prior approval from your educational institution. This may not be easy to get as they want you to study and not work, the main reason you came there in the first place.

Many categories of South Korean visas exist.

For example, one can take a general temporary South Korean work visa for 90 days. It depends on the duration and the nature of the job.

Short Term Employment (C-4) is for those working in music, play, sports, entertainment, advertising, and fashion. And also those who want to engage in e-business, research, and technology.

Of all the best reasons to learn Korean , jobs in South Korea are among the biggest motivations for K-lovers! The one-of-a-kind experience will make every struggle worth it.

There is no easy way to achieve your dream. But if you plan wisely and build your profile, you might, one day, be able to live in Korea.

If you want to make the most of your visit and gain an unforgettable experience, learn some Korean!

I have done my best to ensure all information is accurate. Still, a few things are highly dynamic and may change in the future. So be sure to check and verify with the official websites concerned.

Do you plan to apply for jobs in South Korea? Let me know your opinion below!

Vikash Gupta

I’m a linguist, lifelong learner, blogger, and fun-loving guy. I write at studyfrenchspanish.com, languagenext.com, joyofkorean.com, joyofchinese.com, and joyofjapanese.com.

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I’m from Bangladesh and have a Diploma in electrical engineering from the Bangladesh technical education Board and a Bachelor of arts from Bangladesh national University have 25year of experience in industrial electrical maintenance and supervision work also have some leadership skills and B2 level English skills. I am 48years. Please let me know how I can get a job in South Korea.

For that, contact any job consultant that deals with jobs in Korea.

Looking for full time job.

I need to work in South Korea

From Enugu State Nigeria, interested in factory jobs in south Korea, how do I get involved

I am ahmed from Nigeria I have national diploma in accounting and am willing to work in south Korea if I could see an offer

I want work in Korea, any job sir thank you

I want work in Korea, any job sir thank you. I’m welder work

I need job magazine

Plz contact me I wish to work there

I am electrician cum driver loocking for a job.

I need a nanny job

Hello sir my name is Ahbab I’m from India and would be happy to work for you or for a friend of yours I urgently need a job I will be happy if you write to me soon I will wait for your answer thank you

I am Dinesh, Sri lankan citizen. Now I’m working in Romania before I was working in samsung hevy indrastrital geoje-du South Korea. I have 5 year work experience in South Korea. How I get work visa in south Korea. I need ur reply.

You have to find the companies that are willing to hire foreigners and you fit their requirement. There is no easy way out.

I want to work in South Korea.

Wish you good luck!

What about if you have kids and a spouse. What would be the best way for us?

Finding and getting a decent job, along with a valid visa to work in SK.

Please am from Ghana, Am impressed by your article I just read about. Frankly speaking, I would like to migrate to work in South Korea. I don’t know how I would get any company to cater for my everything, so I work with them. I am very fluent in English, but I don’t have the certificate, And Ghana is an English-speaking country, I would be very much happy to hear from you. Thank you.

It would be difficult to guide you on that. From requirements to available opportunities, it depends on many factors. I wish you all the best in your endeavor.

I need to work in south Korea

Wish you all the best!

I would love to work in south Korea I have a degree in English.

You can try as an ESL teacher.

I’m 23 years old with a professional bachelor’s degree in biotechnology. In the coming 1,5 – 2 years I would like to work as an expand in South Korea in the biotechnology sector. I heard that South Korea is in demand for biotechnologists and hope that I can improve my Korean enough in 1,5 to 2 years to take a chance.

Do you have an idea if I make a chance with 2 to 2,5 years of experience in this field to find a job in Korea?

Hi, I think it is better for you to study masters in Korean and then get a job in here. They offer a lot of grants and scholarships for foreigners in the stem major.

There are demands in South Korea, but it is not as big as the US, China, and a few European countries, making up almost 85% of the world’s value share in this field. But if you speak fluent Korean, along with a great profile that has demand in the SK market, you can certainly try your luck.

I would like to get a job in Korea for Church services. Irfan Daniel, Missionary, Presbyterian Church.

Can I go to Korea without a work visa and then find a job there and attend interviews? How to do that?

I don’t think that would be easy. Without a work permit, no company will hire you, even if you manage to give an interview by obtaining temporary visas like tourist ones. One alternative is to study there, and before your study visa expires, find a job post-study.

I have a bachelor’s in nursing but would love to move to Korea, do you know what kind of jobs I can apply for?

Candidates need to take KMLE (Korean Medical Licensing exam) to practice medicine and nurse in South Korea. Since the test is done totally in Korean, thus, one needs to be fluent in the language. Then, you can contact various hospitals and medical facilities for a job. If you get one and so the sponsorship, apply for a visa like E-5 or E-7.

how to apply …./?

That is too generic to answer. Find something beneficial for you.

Hi I’m a student from Senegal university and am now a facilitator helping international industries for a qualified workers in Afrique in large.

Hi, I am Thongphane, nickname is Ter, from LAO PDR, graduated from Curtin University of WA, majoring in mine engineering. I am looking for opportunities to work in South Korea,

Can you give me directions please, Regards Ter

I worked in a factory (same) in South Korea for 8.5 years and returned to my country in 2017 with about a year of visa left. Is there any way to get a return visa to Korea? Please help.

Not sure. Perhaps, you need another job so that it can help you get a sponsorship to renew/get awork visa.

My names biendy from rwanda. I would like to how can get a job in Korea.

You can get some ideas from this post.

Hi I’m from India. Can you plz tell me which company you worked for and what are the requirements and qualifications to do factory job and how to apply?

I have bachelors degree in electrical engineering and 3 years of experience. I’m planning to get settled in Korea. Is that possible?

Yes, but not easy. First, you need to have a good command of Korean language, along with opportunities as a foreign to apply for.

Well all i can say is that Korean is a good place also learning the language you just need to make practice just like how i do i have started to learning Korean language for a long time and am just waiting for it to bear fruits just like practice makes perfect so its great learning Korean language.

Practice makes a significant difference in any language, including Korean.

Hi I am Marshal Nwafor from Nigeria, I studied guidance counseling with a Bachelor of Education. I will like to live and work in South Korea because is a peaceful country with the fear of God. I discovered that the country is blessed by God. Also, I’m a trained Agro/ Animal producer with many years of experience. So, how will I get a good job with my qualifications and experience? I look forward to your positive response. Thanks Marshal Nwafor

As a Nigerian can I get a visa sponsorship job from South Korea? Especially in construction industry

I would like to work in South Korea for a long time ago. The country have lovely people.

Job search (South Korea).

I am Bangladesh my name is Asraful 49 years old. I am a poultry farm worker & egg collector 8 years working Saudi Arabia Fakih poultry farm Thank you

I am from Nigeria and I will like to work in Korea as an English teacher, but I need a sponsor I am ready as far as they is a sponsor.

Hi, I have a masters degree in Marketing and I have currently studying level 5 korean in Seoul. I also have a TOPIK level 4. So do you think if I try hard I will be able to get a job? Please reply ?!

It isn’t easy, but you can still get a job there if you have a great C.V. and already staying in Korea.

I would like to apply in Food and Beverage industry Management (Mainly Big Hotel properties). But I don’t know how to speak the language. Is it possible to apply it?

Without speaking Korean, getting a decent job there is not easy. Plus, you need a sponsor that can help you get a word permit.

Look forward to hearing from you

I have 10 years of experience in Marketing and Advertising in India in a big global firm. And I am proficient in Business Korean (self-taught, I don’t have a TOPIK certificate yet). Would it be wise for me to take a Tourist Visa and search for a job in Korea (is it legal)? Does my experience make it easier for me to find a job, even if I am on Tourist Visa?

I don’t think it is legal. You need a valid work permit to get a job there. To get that, you need a post-study visa, any Korean company sponsorship, etc.

Hello, I am from Canada and have a girlfriend in South Korea that I want to be with but marriage is not in the air at this moment. I am looking for a job in Protective Services, Security Services, or anywhere I can apply my 20 years of experience in Resort and Hotel, Casino, Municipal Government, and Community Security Services. I have a College degree in Criminal Justice and other ongoing courses and upgrades in my industry. I do not know where to start.

Thank you in advance.

You can start with the consultant and recruiting agencies that hire foreigners. I’m pretty your specialization can be helpful there, but the language barrier may be an issue. And since you are from an English-speaking country, you can also work as part-time ESL English teacher in Korea unless you get something good enough.

I‘m working in gastronomie, hospitality and bar industry. It is my dream to live and work in South Korea in about 9months from now. Do you have any tips, how I can apply for jobs in that industry and if I can even expect being successful without Korean language. And how much you earn in this industry too?

Without Korean, it would be difficult. However, you can still explore opportunities in places where your profile can fit. Try some consultants or 3rd party recuriters.

I am a skilled worker from Nigeria, I work as a crane operator on the ivory coast, and I am planning to relocate to South Korea next year. What are my chances of getting a job skilled job or an unskilled job in South Korea? Any hope for me? Please reply

There is always some hope, but you need to find employers who can hire you for a job where your skillset is useful.

I am a registered nurse and wish to work from k. Am from Zambia is it possible.

Hi, I want to know about the E7-4 skilled work visa, so that plz tell me if the Korean language is must require or not required for an E7-4 skilled work visa.

While Korean language ability is one of the criteria, the selection is based on a point system. You can still get through without the Korean language.

I am an Accountant, from Nigeria. I want to live and in South Korea

I have been working in IT as a business intelligence specialist (data engineer and reporting) for 8 years now. Is there a demand in S.K.? Is freelance a thing in S.K.?

Of course, there are plenty of demands there. But in most cases, Korean companies prefer someone residing there. However, you can look for companies that may be interested in profiles like yours.

Hello! you didn’t mention working in industries such as manpower, dishwashers, cleaners, and security guards! is it easy to get that kind of job in S.KOREA? What are the requirements to get those kinds of jobs? for those who want to work in S.K., what kind of visa do they need to apply for?

Of course, there is a wide variety of jobs in various fields. But most of them are based on country-to-country agreements. For example, EPS is a non-seasonal temporary labor migration program for which one needs to take the EPS TOPIK test.

I can work with my expertise based on my CV and 16 years of experience in the food industry. I am a Training and Compliance officer, and trainer of Greenwich Pizza (Jollibee food corporation)

Hi, I’m a Brazilian woman, 38yo. I hold a bachelor degree in International Relations from a State University in Russia, currently living in Turkey (my husband is Turkish). I speak Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, English, and a little of Turkish. I’ve been working as a translator/customer support since 2018, but I am unemployed and unhappy with my professional field.

I am planning on changing my career, going back to school to study (besides the Korean language) industrial/product design/ graphic design in Seoul. Do you think it is a good idea? Could you advise on which university I should apply to? Could you say something about the prospects of finding a job as a designer after graduating there? I’d really appreciate you taking the time to help clarifying my questions.

I don’t have much knowledge about various Korean universities offering such courses. Usually, I don’t suggest a career change abroad unless you’re confident about it. Also, getting a job in SK post-study isn’t easy. I’d suggest to check colleges, programs, eligibility criteria, your field, and possible visas that you can get and benefit you. Take your time!

Hi I’m a South African man my name is Vincent Khosa I’m looking for a security job based on my 7 years experience in the security industry and also have experience in a food factory. I’m a very hardworking man.

Regards Vincent I hope this email finds you well

I’m a Nigerian girl. I just finished high school. I want to work in Korea.

How to apply for nursing job in korea ?

First, you have to find a job where your profile will be eligible. Plus, they have some other medical criteria along with higher fluency in Korean.

Dear respected Sir/ Mam, Gd. We hope all is well with you. I am Sagindra from Nepal. i am a marketing manager for Gurkhas human resources agency. We are an active and trustable skilled manpower supplier agency. We are efforting to find the new overseas job markets for our skilled workers. We are playing the role of a bridge for skilled workers with all kinds of business employers. Our services are usable for you, kindly advice us. We are ready to play our role as an assistant bridge.

We are hoping to hear back from you accordingly.

Highly regarded.

Dear sir, I am Muhammad Shafi from Islamabad Pakistan basically from Jhang Saddar Punjab I have been serving for 7 months to available myself for any job role. I am very in a very danger because of unemployment I need your help to move myself from Pakistan to your company. I am having a lot of experience in various platforms which are mentioned in the resume and i have shared with you all the necessary documents which are attached to this mail.

I am a talented, ambitious and hardworking individual, with broad skills and experience in digital and printed marketing, social media and leading projects. Furthermore, I am adept at handling multiple tasks on a daily basis competently and at working well under pressure. If someone can guide and help me regarding to have any sort of job as a foreigner in your state and platform which is enrich of learning land. Kind regards: MUHAMMAD SHAFI

Plz tell me how can I get job in south Korea my passion is in gold.

Probably in the jewelry and fashion business, but not sure how about it.

hi, my name is Francis and I hail from Nigeria. I am a software engineer and a poet; please how can I get a remote job in South Korea and hopefully move there if a sponsor is seen.

I`m so eager to serve and work at South Korea, my inclination is working job on evangelism, Missionary, and to teach and preach on the area of gospel. I have serving in Choir and leading Bible study group. I am working now on purchasing and procurement area. may God bless Korea.

i am from ethiopia i have first degrees by civil engineering and 2 year of working expreince at site engineer,now i want to ask you does my educational documents and work expreince made me having more work opportunity at Korea?

Hi my name is Jevin I’m from India right now residing in Bahrain. I would like to move to South Korea and settle there, is it possible to come over there on tourist visa and then apply for refuge visa (Jeevan visa) and look for a job. Please let me know.

I don’t think it’s that simple. Try getting job along with sponsorship or study there to get work permit.

I would like to apply for job opportunities in this country

If you’re considering exploring job opportunities in South Korea as a foreigner, this comprehensive guide provides valuable insights. With South Korea’s booming economy and diverse cultural offerings, it’s an attractive destination for employment. Remember to find your niche and leverage your unique skills to stand out in the competitive job market. And if you need assistance with obtaining a Business Visa for your venture, you can rely on expert guidance. Their Business Visa Consultants can navigate the complexities and help make your South Korean employment dream a reality. Good luck on your journey to a fulfilling career in South Korea!

I need to get any work from Korea

I like to work as a child care assistant I have diploma in Malta.

Exploring job opportunities in South Korea is a topic of interest for many. Your article provides a valuable overview of the job market and the necessary steps to secure employment there. It’s informative and well-structured.

Hi, my office is looking for English speaking candidate to work with us in Seoul, Korea.

Hello, I’m Armel Uwimana from Burundi. I’m a graduate in tourism and hospitality, therefore I’m characterized by hospitality and simpleness. I’m a tremendous asset for your office. Please contact me if you are still looking for someone in your office. I have a passport and I’m ready to join you anytime. Contact me by emai.

Sincerely, Armel Uwimana

Where can I apply if I work in the graphic field in South Korea, is it difficult to get in?

if you have expertise, there is no harm in trying. Knowing Korean is a big plus!

I am an American female student, and am looking to live abroad. I want to work in the field of Industrial Design and Architecture. Do you think there might be any jobs and/or applicable visas suitable for me? I am currently working very hard on my Korean skills, and can make good amounts conversation. Other than that, I only speak English fluently. I await your response and advice.

-Thank you, A.E.W.

You can also consider working as ESL (English as second language) teacher. Being a native speaker, you may some opportunities.

I will be pleased and glad to working on South korea but I really need assistance

I need a job, am just ready to work incase given visa and ticket.

Hello sir I want to try to get a job in South Korea in a manufacturing sector where I can work with my hands. Can you plz give me some information about sponsorship company or how to apply through and what are the requirements and qualifications for this work ?

Its hard to tell. You can check the list of companies offer such jobs, and apply accordingly as per their requirements and your profile.

I am since 10 years work eltrical fields in qatar

Am an draughtman I will like to work in south Korean sir

I’m a Nigerian, bread baker and pastry chef. I want to work In South Korea as baker, though I’ll need to learn their ways of production. Any idea on how I can get a job?, the process and requirements. Thanks.

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South Korean Work Visa: Types, How to Get and Requirements

Types of Working Visas in South Korea

1) e1 professor visa: to give lectures and conduct research, 2) e2 foreign language instructor visa: to teach english in south korea, 3) e5 professional employee visa for specialist employees, 4) h1 working holiday south korea visa, 5) other types of south korea working visa, can job seekers get a working visa in south korea, how to get a south korea’s work visa: document requirement, south korea’s work permit application form, application form for accompanying family members, how long does it take to get a working visa to south korea, is the south korea eta valid for working, south korea eta for short business trips.

South Korea offers many exciting work opportunities, from innovative start-ups to established companies. Foreigners who wish to carry out paid work whilst in South Korea must have the relevant South Korean work visa .

Different types of working visa are available depending on the job role, travelers should understand the range of permits available and their requirements before applying.

Whether or not the new South Korea ETA can be used for work purposes is also explained.

There are several kinds of South Korean work visas available to foreigners. Applicants should check all the visa specifications carefully to ensure they obtain the correct permit.

Each of the following visas is valid for remaining in South Korea long-term, 1 year or more.

This visa is suitable for individuals who plan to give lectures and carry out research at recognized universities and colleges in Korea.

The E1 Professor visa is multiple-entry and generally renewed every year. The applicant must be a native English speaker with a valid passport from Canada, the USA, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, or South Africa .

This is very similar to the E1 visa and has the same eligibility criteria. To teach English in South Korea it is necessary to have completed a Bachelor’s degree in Canada, the USA, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, or South Africa.

The E2 English teacher visa is suitable for native English speakers who want to work in a private or public school or other language teaching institution.

It is a multiple-entry working visa for Korea that can be renewed every 2 years.

The E5 South Korea work visa is for professionals such as lawyers, architects, and medics . To obtain the visa, applicants must hold an internationally valid qualification recognized by the Korean government.

It is initially valid for 1 year and can be renewed annually.

Westerners who wish to take an extended vacation in South Korea and work at the same time can apply for the working holiday visa for Korea.

It is valid for 12 months and therefore the best option for travelers taking a gap year from their studies or regular work.

Whilst the visas listed above are some of the most popular kinds of South Korea work visa, there are several more to select from:

• E3 Research visa
• E4 Technology transfer visa
• E6 Artistic performer visa
• E7 Designated activities visa
• D5 Journalism visa

Foreigners who qualify for one of the working visas E1-7, but are yet to find a job, can apply for the D10 Job seeker visa before they go to South Korea.

One of the following conditions must be met to be eligible:

• Employed for at least 1 year by a Fortune 500 company in the last 3 years
• Graduated from a university in the top 200 on the Times Higher World University Rankings
• Graduated from a Korean community college in the last 3 years

Work permit applicants need the basic documents to obtain a Korea visa in addition to:

• Completed application form for the requested visa
• Copy of the passport ID page
• Copy of the candidate’s CV
• Copy of degree certificate or other qualifications
• Color, passport-style photograph
• Employment contract or letter

Employment specific paperwork:

Work visa documents.

(from the sponsoring company in South Korea):

• Employer’s letter of invitation
• Company’s registration certificate and certificate of corporation
• Certificate of previous year’s tax payments
• Financial statement from the last fiscal year

South Korea work visa requirements stipulate that the passport should be valid for at least 6 months from arrival. The photograph must meet the South Korea visa photo standards .

Additional supporting documentation may be requested by South Korean authorities.

Foreigners should complete the working visa application form and present it in person at the South Korea embassy or consulate in their home country. It is not currently possible to get a Korean working visa online .

The application must be endorsed by the employer, in many cases, the visa is obtained by the employer on behalf of their new employee.

The form can be downloaded and completed at home, ready to be submitted along with all the relevant supporting documents, at the embassy.

A visa processing fee is paid at the time of making the application.

The spouse and minor children of the working visa applicant need to obtain an F3 Accompanying spouse/child visa.

To do so, they should present the correct application form at the embassy, at the same time as their relative submits the working visa application.

As well as the F3 visa form, family members have to provide copies of the birth or marriage certificate and proof of financial stability .

Visa processing times vary however most Korean work visa applications take 2 to 4 weeks .

Employees should apply as soon as possible before the starting date of their new job in South Korea.

The South Korea ETA cannot be used to engage in paid employment in South Korea. To stay for a short period and work whilst in South Korea, a working holiday visa must be obtained.

The ETA is, however, valid for business activity . Westerners traveling to Seoul or elsewhere in South Korea to attend meetings or for other business purposes are eligible for the new permit.

The ETA is mandatory for most visa-exempt foreign visitors. Eligible travelers must apply for a South Korea ETA online before departure.

Citizens of some countries can get the APEC Business Travel Card, the South Korea business visa waiver for trips of up to 90 days.

All the foreigners s are strongly advised to familiarize themselves with business Korean etiquette before traveling to South Korea.

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• Work & Travel

Working Holiday in South Korea

Work and Travel South Korea

Discover the beauty of East Asia by joining GO International’s Working Holiday Program in South Korea! Enjoy GO International’s all-round carefree package including airport pick-up, accommodation on arrival, job services and so much more!

Free Guide to Work & Travel in South Korea for Canadians 

Download a FREE Guide to planning and having an amazing working holiday in South Korea. This comprehensive guide, created by our knowledgeable travel advisers, is tailored for IEC-qualified Canadians and provides essential information on the entire process. Learn how to apply for your visa, get insider information on how to land a great job, find accommodation about where to travel and get answers to all other questions you may have.  

Capital City

Transportation, overview of the working holiday program in south korea   .

The Working Holiday Program in South Korea , known as the “Working Holiday Visa (H-1),” presents an exciting opportunity for young Canadians to engage in a cultural exchange adventure while working part-time and exploring all that South Korea has to offer. Geared towards individuals aged between 18 and 35, this program aims to foster cross-cultural understanding and provide participants with a unique way to experience life in South Korea.  

Canadians can apply for this program as Canada has a bilateral agreement with South Korea for a working holiday visa. The application process involves submitting necessary documents – like a valid passport, application form, proof of financial means, and a medical certificate – to the South Korean embassy or consulate in Canada. It’s important to note that while the visa allows for part-time work, the main emphasis is on cultural immersion and exploration, rather than full-time employment.   

It’s worth noting that certain restrictions apply to the types of jobs participants can take up, and quotas may be in place for specific nationalities. The visa typically permits multiple entries into South Korea within its duration, granting Canadians the flexibility to travel in and out of the country during their stay. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding eligibility criteria, application procedures, and regulations, prospective participants from Canada are encouraged to refer to the official website of the South Korean embassy or consulate in Canada or consult the relevant Canadian government immigration resources.   

Eligibility Requirements for IEC-Qualified Canadians  

South Korea has certain requirements for Canadians traveling for a South Korean working holiday visa. To participate in this program, Canadians must meet specific eligibility criteria for the application process:   

• Be a Canadian citizen residing in Canada   
• Have a valid Canadian passport (valid for at least 13 months at the time of the application)   
• Must be between the ages of 18 and 35 (inclusive)  
• Have a clean police record   
• Must be in good health (proof of physical examination)  
• Must provide a recent RCMP criminal background check   
• Provide proof of financial resources (minimum of $3000 CAD)   
• Book travel insurance for the full duration of your stay (minimum coverage of $40,000 CAD)   
• Submit all the documents necessary to support your visa request in person at a Korean embassy/consulate   
• Must not have held a Working Holiday visa for Korea before   

You can stay and work in South Korea for up to 12 months. You can participate in the Working Holiday program once.   

Navigating the South Korea Working Holiday Visa Process  

Your journey in South Korea begins with understanding the visa process. Here is a guide to your visa application to allow an easy transition from Canada to South Korea.   

Step 1: Document Preparation 

The first step in the process is gathering the necessary documents. This includes:   

• Visa application form    
• A valid passport and one passport photo (3.5×4.5cm)   
• Return ticket or proof of sufficient funds to purchase one   
• Supporting financial documentation of $3,400 CAD (ex: certified copy of a bank statement)   
• Health Insurance that remains valid throughout your stay in Korea (Coverage: KRW 40,000,000 minimum)   
• Travel plans    
• Application fees   
• Criminal record check   
• Medical certificate   
• Proof of student status or highest academic qualifications 

Step 2: Submit Visa Application & Pay Fees 

The next step is to submit the Working Holiday Visa application form. You can submit your application with the return fee in two ways:   

• by mailing to one of the South Korean consulates:   

Vancouver : 1600-1090 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, British Columbia V6E 3V7  

Toronto : 555 Avenue Road, Toronto, Ontario, M4V 2J7   

Montreal : 1250 René-Lévesque Boulevard West, Suite 3600, Montreal, Quebec H3B 4W8   

• in-person at one of the South Korean consulates   

The Working Holiday visa costs $117 CAD. It is valid for 2 years from the visa issuance, and you should enter Korea within 12 months after you receive the approval. 

Step 3: Receive Your Working Holiday Visa 

The application processing time is typically 14 to 16 business days. If your application has been approved, great news! You will have received your working holiday visa, allowing you to live and work in South Korea for up to 24 months. There are just a few more things to do upon your arrival in South Korea.  

Step 4: Prepare for Work and Travel In South Korea 

Make travel arrangements to South Korea and ensure you have appropriate travel insurance. Upon arrival, you may be asked to provide additional documentation to immigration officials, such as proof of accommodation or a return ticket.   

Upon your arrival in South Korea, it is crucial for all working holidaymakers to apply for a Residence Card. Register within 90 days of entry at the nearest immigration office. Upon receiving a residence card, you will also be assigned a unique National Identification Number (NIN). This number is crucial for various administrative and financial purposes in South Korea.   

Strategizing for Your Working Holiday in South Korea

Embarking on a working holiday in France requires careful planning and preparation. Here are some key areas to focus on:   

Financial Planning: Calculate your budget, factoring in visa fees, travel expenses, accommodation costs, and daily living expenses. Make sure you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay, even if your plan is to work part-time.  

Language preparation: While English is widely spoken in South Korea, learning some basic Korean phrases can greatly enhance your experience. Consider taking language classes or using language-learning apps before departure. Our Work and Travel in South Korea program offers an optional service of 4 weeks of Korean language lessons.   

Accommodation: Research and book your initial accommodation in advance. Options range from hostels to shared apartments. Look for places that align with your budget and offer a convenient location for your daily activities. Our Work and Travel in South Korea program includes 1 month of accommodation in a central guest house.   

Transportation: Explore South Korea’s efficient public transportation system, including buses, subways, and trains. Get a T-money card for easy payment and smooth city navigation. Research transportation apps and routes to travel conveniently.   

Bank account: Open a local bank account upon arrival for financial management and receiving wages. Choose a bank, gather required documents like passport and visa, and simplify rent and utility payments.   

Finding a Job in South Korea   

To find a job during your working holiday in South Korea, adopt a targeted approach. Research industries like hospitality, language education, tourism, and retail often hire temporary workers. Attend local events for networking and use online platforms, such as Job Korea and Saramin to discover job openings. Craft a tailored resume and cover letter, and consider seeking assistance from local recruitment agencies specializing in foreign placements. Popular job options include teaching English, hospitality roles, retail positions, and freelancing opportunities.   

Teaching English is a common route, especially in language institutes or for private tutoring. Hospitality roles in restaurants, cafes, hotels, and retail are often available. You might also explore au pair positions, freelancing in various fields, and internships for industry exposure. Remember to adhere to visa regulations and approach your job search with determination and adaptability to secure a fulfilling job experience in South Korea.  

Embracing the Korean Culture and Lifestyle

Immersing yourself in Korean culture and lifestyle during your working holiday in South Korea is an incredible opportunity for personal growth and cross-cultural enrichment. Start by familiarizing yourself with basic Korean phrases – this simple effort can bridge communication gaps and foster connections with locals. Exploring Korean cuisine is a gateway to understanding the nation’s history and tastes, so be sure to sample iconic dishes like kimchi and bulgogi from street vendors and local restaurants.   

To integrate into daily life, make use of the efficient public transportation system, mirroring the routines of locals as you navigate the city. Exploring cozy neighborhood cafes, verdant parks, and vibrant entertainment districts offers a glimpse into the everyday rhythm of Korean life. Don’t hesitate to engage with Korean entertainment too – watching dramas and films can provide insights into societal norms and colloquial language.   

Your social interactions will play a crucial role in fully embracing the culture. Participate in language exchange gatherings to learn Korean and share your language skills with locals eager to practice. Enrolling in cultural classes, like traditional dance or cooking, goes beyond observation, allowing you to actively learn and engage with Korean traditions. By connecting with locals at events and community gatherings, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of their perspectives and form lasting bonds. Embracing Korean culture and lifestyle will undoubtedly enrich your working holiday experience and leave you with cherished memories of your time in South Korea.   

Travel in South Korea   

South Korea offers a wealth of stunning landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant cities to explore. Here are the top five must-visit places in South Korea:   

• Seoul: The vibrant city of South Korea offers a blend of modernity and tradition, form futuristic skyscrapers to historic palaces, making it a hub of cultural diversity and technological innovation.   
• Jeju Island: Known as the “Island of Gods,” Jeju is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including volcanic craters, lush forests, and pristine beaches, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers.   
• Gyeongju: Often referred to as the “Museum Without Walls,” Gyeongju boasts ancient temples, royal tombs, and historical sites that offer a glimpse into Korea’s rich heritage, making it a cultural treasure trove.   
• Busan: South Korea’s second-largest city is famous for its bustling beaches, bustling markets, and vibrant nightlife, providing a dynamic coastal experience and showcasing the country’s contemporary urban scene.   
• Incheon: Home to Incheon International Airport, this city offers a mix of modern attractions like shopping districts and amusement parks, coupled with historic sites like Chinatown, making it a gateway to South Korea’s diverse offerings. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long can i stay in south korea with a working holiday visa.

The working holiday visa usually allows participants to stay for up to 1 year, with the possibility of extension under certain circumstances.   

What is the application fee for Canadians applying for a working holiday visa?

The South Korea working holiday visa application costs $117 CAD. It can be paid by cash or money order.

What types of jobs can I do?

The types of jobs you can do might vary based on visa regulations. Generally, you can work in industries like hospitality, retail, language education, and tourism. There might be restrictions on certain industries for public safety reasons.   

Do I need to know the Korean language to participate?

While basic Korean language skills can enhance your experience, they are not always required for participation. English is often sufficient for daily communication. Our Work and Travel in South Korea program offers an optional service of 4 weeks of Korean language lessons.   

How far in advance should I apply for the working holiday visa?

It’s advisable to apply well in advance, usually at least 3 or 4 months before your intended travel date. This allows sufficient time for processing, potential interviews, and any additional requirements. Find out more on the Working Holiday Info Center website .   

Can I travel to other countries during my working holiday in South Korea?

Yes, the working holiday visa allows multiple entries into South Korea. This provides Canadians with the flexibility to travel to other countries and return during the visa’s validity period.   

Can I apply for a working holiday visa if I’ve previously visited South Korea?

Yes, previous visits to South Korea usually do not disqualify Canadians from applying for a working holiday visa. However, ensure that you meet all other eligibility criteria.   

Where can I find the most accurate and up-to-date information about the visa application process?

For the most accurate and current information, visit the official website of the South Korean embassy or consulate in Canada. They will provide detailed instructions, requirements, and contact information for inquiries.  

How long can I work and travel in South Korea?

With a working holiday visa, you can work and travel in South Korea for up to one year.  

As you navigate the visa application process, remember that diligent research and preparation are key. The steps outlined in this guide, tailored to Canadians, serve as a roadmap to help you plan, apply, and fully embrace your time in South Korea. So, pack your bags, open your mind, and get ready for an unforgettable chapter of your life in South Korea! We highly encourage all eligible Canadians with IEC qualifications to give serious thought to applying for the Working Holiday program in South Korea. If you or someone you know is considering a working holiday in South Korea, please feel free to reach out to us . We are committed to offering help and guidance in any way we can.   

• Individuals
• published on 4/12/2022

Working Holiday Programme (WHP) in South Korea

You’ve been learning Korean, choosing the sights you’d like to visit in Seoul as well as the foods you wish to taste… All you are lacking is your Working Holiday Visa (WHV) for South Korea. Travel under the Working Holiday Programme (WHP) and pay for all the sightseeing by taking up short-term employment. Many countries have signed bilateral reciprocal agreements with South Korea allowing young people to work and live there for up to a year.

If you are planning to participate in the Working Holiday Visa (WHV) in South Korea, it is important to have a good understanding of the program requirements and regulations.

How to obtain a Working Holiday Visa for South Korea?

To get a Working Holiday Visa for South Korea (H-1 Visa), you must:

be aged between 18 and 32 (until 15 March 2024 because of Covid-19) on the day you apply to join the WHP ,

be a citizen of a country which has signed an agreement with South Korea,

hold a valid passport,

not have already been granted a Working Holiday Visa for South Korea,

have sufficient funds to cover expenses at the beginning of the stay and the cost of a return ticket,

not be travelling with dependents,

have a clean police record,

have WHV insurance for the duration of your stay.

Do note there may be additional requirements for the citizens of some of the participating countries.

The Working Holiday Visa for South Korea is valid for a maximum of 12 months and is not renewable.

Get a quote for a short-term international health insurance plan and apply easily online.

Applying for a Working Holiday Visa for South Korea

Applications for a WHV for South Korea must be lodged at the closest embassy or consulate of the Republic of Korea. Applications must enclose:

the completed application form,

the valid passport,

a return flight ticket or proof of purchase,

proof of sufficient funds,

proof of student status,

a criminal record check,

a schedule an plan of the trip,

in some cases: payment of application fee, medical certificate.

South Korean WHV restrictions

The WHP in South Korea encourages tourism: working must not be the main purpose of your stay. Also, there are some employment restrictions. Working Holiday Visa holders may not:

work as receptionists, dancers, singers, or acrobats in places of entertainment,

work as doctors, lawyers, teachers, pilots, reporters, journalists or researchers.

As for study, a working holidayer may only take Korean language classes.

Participating in the Working Holiday Programme in South Korea can be an exciting and enriching experience. However, it is important to understand the program requirements and regulations, including obtaining the necessary visa, meeting financial requirements, and obtaining comprehensive international health insurance coverage. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a safe and successful working holiday in South Korea.

To find out more about the WHP in South Korea:

Get more information about the application process on the Korea Republic embassy website .

• APRIL International

As with any international travel, it's important to prioritize your health and safety by obtaining the appropriate travel insurance. With APRIL International's short-term international health insurance , you can have peace of mind knowing that you'll have access to quality medical care and assistance while on your working holiday in South Korea. Don't hesitate to contact us for more information or to get a quote for your travel insurance needs. Safe travels!

Learn more: Working Holiday Programme

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8 must-know tips about traveling in South Korea

(Photo: Printscreen youtube.com/@SeoulWalker)

South Korea is one of the most beautiful countries you can visit in the entire world. It has everything that travelers want. Starting with mesmerizing sights and ending with an amazing culture that stands out from all other parts of the world, there’s always something for you to discover while traveling in South Korea. Here are the 8 must-know tips for your next trip to South Korea.

1. Embrace Public Transportation

South Korea boasts one of the most efficient and extensive  public transportation systems  in the world. The subway and bus networks are not only extensive but also affordable and easy to navigate. Tourists can purchase a T-money card, which can be used on buses, subways, taxis, and even some convenience stores. This card will save you time and money as you travel through the bustling streets of Seoul or explore the scenic landscapes of Busan.

When using public transportation, it’s essential to follow the local etiquette. For instance, give up your seat to the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities. South Koreans value respect and politeness, so a small gesture like this can go a long way in making your travel experience pleasant. Also, try to avoid loud conversations or phone calls on public transport, as maintaining a quiet environment is considered respectful.

2. Learn Basic Korean Phrases

While many South Koreans, especially in major cities, speak some English, learning basic Korean phrases can greatly enhance your travel experience. Simple greetings like “Annyeonghaseyo” (Hello) and “Kamsahamnida” (Thank you) can help you connect with locals and show respect for their culture.

Knowing how to ask for directions or order food in Korean can also be extremely helpful. For instance, “Eodi-e-yo?” means “Where is…?” and can be used when asking for directions. Additionally, having a translation app on your phone can be a lifesaver when navigating menus or communicating more complex needs.

3. Adjust for the Climate

South Korea experiences a range of climates depending on the region and season. The southern parts, like Busan and Jeju Island, can get quite hot and humid in the summer. In contrast, northern regions like Seoul and Pyeongchang can be extremely cold during the winter. It’s crucial to pack accordingly to ensure a comfortable trip.

For hot climates, consider packing lightweight clothing,  cooling pajamas , and a good sunscreen. In colder regions,  thermal socks , insulated jackets, and layering clothes are essential. Also, keep an eye on the weather forecast before your trip and pack an umbrella or raincoat during the monsoon season from June to September.

4. Enjoy Korean Cuisine

Korean cuisine  is renowned for its bold flavors and diverse dishes. Don’t miss out on trying local favorites such as kimchi, bulgogi (marinated beef), and bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables and meat). Street food is also a significant part of Korean culinary culture. Visit night markets to savor treats like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and kimbap (seaweed rice rolls).

If you have dietary restrictions, South Korea can still cater to your needs. Many restaurants offer vegetarian or vegan options, and there are halal-certified restaurants in major cities. However, it’s always a good idea to learn the Korean terms for your dietary requirements and communicate them clearly when ordering.

5. Respect the Culture and Customs

South Korean culture is deeply rooted in respect and tradition. Bowing is a common greeting and sign of respect, so practice a slight bow when meeting someone new or thanking them. When dining, it’s polite to wait for the eldest person to start eating before you do. Pouring drinks for others and receiving them with both hands is also a sign of respect.

Visiting temples and historical sites requires modest clothing. Make sure your shoulders and knees are covered, and be prepared to remove your shoes before entering certain places. Understanding and respecting these customs will enhance your experience and help you make a positive impression on the locals.

6. Use Mobile Apps for Convenience

South Korea is a tech-savvy nation, and there are several mobile apps that can make your trip more convenient. Apps like KakaoMap or Naver Map are excellent for navigation, while Papago is great for translation. For transportation, KakaoTaxi is a reliable alternative to hailing cabs on the street.

Additionally, many restaurants, cafes, and tourist attractions offer free Wi-Fi, so staying connected is easy. Consider getting a local SIM card or a portable Wi-Fi device to ensure you have internet access throughout your trip. This will help you navigate, communicate, and stay updated with travel plans seamlessly.

7. Explore Beyond Seoul

While Seoul is a vibrant city with plenty to offer, South Korea has many other destinations worth exploring.  Busan , with its beautiful beaches and seafood markets, offers a relaxed coastal vibe. Jeju Island is a favorite for its natural beauty, hiking trails, and unique attractions like the Manjanggul Lava Tube.

Gyeongju, known as “the museum without walls,” is rich in historical sites, including Bulguksa Temple and the royal tombs. Andong offers a glimpse into traditional Korean culture with its Hahoe Folk Village. Exploring these regions will give you a deeper understanding of South Korea’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.

8. Stay Connected with Locals

Engaging with locals can provide unique insights into Korean culture and daily life. Joining local tours, participating in cooking classes, or attending festivals are excellent ways to meet people and learn from their experiences. South Koreans are generally very friendly and welcoming to foreigners.

Language exchange meetups are also popular and can be a fun way to improve your Korean while helping locals practice English. Websites like Meetup or language exchange apps can help you find events and connect with locals. Building these connections can make your trip more memorable and meaningful.

related stories

• Have fun in South Korea through ROK Cultural Immersion Program
• Guide to Jeonju Hanok Village: Enjoy traditional Korean beauty, delicious cuisine
• Korea tip of the day: Get help for your trip with 24-hr travel assistant

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Why South Korea should be your next travel destination for business and leisure

South korea is every intrepid traveller's dream come true with bustling city streets, dramatic landscapes, a burgeoning food scene and deep artisanal culture.

Touted among the most spirited and colourful countries around the world, the Republic of Korea , or South Korea , effortlessly fuses its unique culture, immersive experiences, and innovative technology with great balance.

Bustling city streets aglow in neon hues, dramatic landscapes dotted with hills and forested trails, a burgeoning food scene, and deep artisanal culture that takes you 5,000 years back in time--South Korea is every intrepid traveller 's dream come true. Add to it hypermodern architecture dominating the glittering skylines, safe and sustainable convention locations, global connectivity and an impressive range of government-led initiatives for smooth operations together make this East Asian nation an exceptional destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE).

"Korea offers a unique blend of modern infrastructure and rich cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination. From state-of-the-art convention centres to historical venues, the nation caters to all your MICE needs with exceptional facilities and seamless connectivity. The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) is committed to providing unparalleled support to Indian companies. We offer comprehensive assistance before, during, and after your visit, ensuring a smooth and successful MICE experience," assures Myong Kil Yun, Regional Director, India & SAARC Countries, KTO.

When it comes to business travel, the country's strategic location, state-of-the-art infrastructure, unique venues, and vibrant K-culture make it an irresistible choice for Indian companies seeking to host MICE events. So, wherever work takes you in South Korea, expect pleasure to tag along! Here's why:

* Strategic Location and Connectivity

South Korea's geographical positioning is enough, for starters, to place it high on the MICE travel map. Situated at the crossroads of Northeast Asia, it offers convenient access to major Asian markets--thanks to a total of eight international airports nationwide, five cruise terminals, and seven domestic airports. Incheon International Airport, which is only a 45-minute train ride away from Seoul, has flight connections to 58 countries and 189 cities across the globe. Flights from India to South Korea are available from multiple cities with several airlines. The airport is well-connected through direct flights from Delhi as well as has numerous one-stop flight options on offer, ensuring seamless travel between the two countries.

Additionally, there are transport services including the AREX airport express train line, KTX--the country's flagship bullet train line, as well as Korea Tour Card, Discover Seoul Pass, SAFEX (luggage storage and delivery card), Let's Korail (rail pass), and more to ensure that visitors in South Korea can travel freely and conveniently.

* World-Class MICE Infrastructure

Whether you're headed to Seoul for a conference or fancy working from Incheon, South Korea's outstanding MICE infrastructure makes sure your business trip is a breeze. KTO India extends complete support to Indian MICE groups travelling to South Korea, by offering a smooth end-to-end experience--from visa facilitation to logistical assistance. Further, the country ranked second in the Union of International Associations (UIA) Global Meetings Statistics in 2021, attributed to its large-scale convention centres, luxury hotels, and super-fast global internet connectivity with 5G technology. There are a total of 19 regional entities specialised in MICE and 17 cutting-edge convention centres with international accreditation.

As the largest exhibition centre in the country, Korea International Exhibition Centre (KINTEX) in Goyang has 40 meeting rooms and 10 exhibition halls that span 1,08,556 square metres. The capital city Seoul is home to the COEX Convention and Exhibition Centre, one of Asia's largest, with over 36,000 square metres of exhibition space, luxe accommodations, shopping malls, and cultural attractions. The Busan Exhibition and Convention Centre (BEXCO) is known for its impressive facilities and scenic coastal location. The eco-friendly Songdo Convensia in Incheon is another premier venue, designed to host large-scale conferences and exhibitions. With the cobalt-blue Northern Pacific stretching on the south and towering Hallasan Mountain in the north, Jeju Convention International Centre (JCIC) is the perfect pick if you are on a lookout for a scenic convention location.

* Unique Venues

KTO has been fostering the Korea Unique Venue program since 2017, offering 52 handpicked spaces, where you can feel the distinct concept of the city hosting your MICE event, while enjoying the indigenous charms of the region. These are not your typical MICE facilities like a convention centre or a business hotel, but a selection of unique venues--ranging from museums, temples, to folk villages, islands, and culture parks--that allows you to not only immerse in Korean tradition and culture, but also experience art, leisure sports, Korean Wave, natural scenery and more.

* Unforgettable Experiences

Sure, work trips mean serious business, but after long days of work, it is only fair to make some time for putting your feet up, slowing down, and exploring your destination du jour. And South Korea, a land of dynamic contrasts and unique experiences, is the perfect place to find the balance you seek on your business trips.

From visiting the K-star road at Gangnam in Seoul to a BTS Hybe Store tour to Hologram K-pop concerts, there's a lot to do in case you wish to immerse in the global phenomenon of K-pop culture. If that's not your thing, spend your days immersed in 5,000-year-old culture--stay in a temple or a traditional hanok guest house, visit all 16 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, or wear traditional hanbok and saunter around at your own pace in a historic monument or village. Once done, stop by a Korean-style spa for some much-needed R&R through dips in a hot spring and healing therapies.

* Delectable Cuisine

A major hotspot for food tourism, South Korea is the perfect place to experience the true authentic flavours of Korean cuisine that go beyond just kimchi and bibimbap. Korean cuisine, Hansik, is getting popular among gastronomes, including India, thanks to its delicious flavours, health benefits, and aesthetics. From the traditional gujeolpan (platter of nine delicacies), to the pop-culture inspired chimaek (chicken and beer) and Korean BBQ--make sure to indulge wholeheartedly. Also, with more than 100 Indian-friendly restaurants and a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan options, there's something for everyone in South Korea.

Designed to effortlessly cater to all your MICE requirements, South Korea's diverse offerings and immersive experiences promise to help you make the most of your business travel from India. Contact Korea Tourism Organization India (New Delhi) at [email protected], or visit the official website of Korea MICE Bureau (KMB) for further information.

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Our plans are also international plans.

Your phone just works when you arrive. no setup required..

With qualifying plans. Capable device required. Not for extended international use. Coverage not available in some areas. See plan for details.  See full terms

NOW ON Go5G PLANS

Get high-speed data abroad.

With no international data-roaming charges.

With qualifying plans. In select countries. Not for extended international use. Coverage not available in some areas. See plan for details.  See full terms

Go5G Next and Go5G Plus

5gb of high-speed data in 215+ countries & destinations..

Unlimited basic data, unlimited texting, and $0.25/min calling.

Up to 5GB high-speed data, then unlimited at up to 256 Kbps.  See full terms

5GB of high-speed data in 11 European countries.

Unlimited basic data that’s 2x faster than before in 215+ countries & destinations, unlimited texting, and $0.25/min calling.

Up to 5GB high-speed data in select Central European countries; otherwise, basic speeds approximately 256 Kbps.  See full terms

Which country or destination are you traveling to?

Speeds and device compatibility vary based on location and roaming partners’ network frequencies. Coverage not available in some areas; we are not responsible for our partners’ networks. Voice call destinations may be limited in some areas. Rates vary by plan and location.

Speeds vary based on roaming partners’ network; high-speeds not available in all locations. Maps do not depict exact coverage and display the general availability of roaming partner networks. Coverage not available in some areas. We are not responsible for the performance of our roaming partners’ networks. Voice call destinations may be limited in some areas.  Simple Global Destinations:  High-speed data, where available, may be included with qualifying plans or require purchase of international pass. Check your plan at  www.T‑Mobile.com/customers/data-pass  for details.  Mobile Without Borders Destinations (Canada/Mexico):  Up to 5GB of LTE speeds included with qualifying plans. Non-qualifying plans require purchase of high-speed data pass. Check  www.T‑Mobile.com/customers/data-pass  for details.

NEED INTERNATIONAL CALLING?

Boost your international plan with a data pass.

Get unlimited calling and even more high-speed data with daily, weekly, or monthly plan add-ons.

Qualifying plan required.  See full terms

More benefits from departure to arrival.

Stream, surf & text from 30,000 ft.

With qualifying plans.  See full terms

Unlimited international calls for just $15/mo.

Call landlines in 70+ destinations and mobile lines in 30+ destinations. Qualifying service required. Get full terms

Explore all travel benefits.

Save up to 40% on travel.

Visit T‑Mobile TRAVEL site for details.  See full terms

Got questions about international roaming?

• Up to 5GB of high-speed data in 215+ countries and destinations:  Go5G Next, Go5G Next Military, Go5G Next 55, Go5G Next First Responders, Go5G Next Puerto Rico, Go5G Next DHH, Go5G Business Next, Go5G Military Business Next, Go5G First Responder Business Next, Go5G Puerto Rico Business Next, Go5G DHH Business Next, Go5G Plus™, Go5G Plus Military, Go5G Plus 55+, Go5G Plus First Responder, Go5G Plus DHH, Go5G Business Plus, Go5G Military Business Plus, Go5G First Responder Business Plus, Business Unlimited Ultimate+, Go5G Puerto Rico Business Plus, Go5G DHH Business Plus, Magenta ® MAX (including 55+, Military, and First Responder), Magenta ® Plus, Magenta ® MAX for Business, ONE Plus, Business Unlimited Ultimate, and Magenta ® Amplified.
• Up to 5GB of high-speed data in 11 European countries:  Go5G™, Go5G Military, Go5G 55+, Go5G First Responder, Go5G DHH, Go5G Business, Go5G Military Business, Go5G First Responder Business, Go5G Puerto Rico Business, Go5G DHH Business, Magenta ® (including 55+, Military, and First Responder), Magenta ® Deaf or Hard of Hearing, Business Unlimited Select, Business Unlimited Advanced, and Magenta ® for Business. Simple Choice, Select Choice, and ONE plans are also included.
• Unlimited data speeds up to 256kbps:  Go5G™, Go5G Military, Go5G 55+, Go5G First Responder, Go5G DHH, Go5G Business, Go5G Military Business, Go5G First Responder Business, Go5G Puerto Rico Business, Go5G DHH Business, Go5G Plus™, Go5G Plus Military, Go5G Plus 55+, Go5G Plus First Responder, Go5G Plus DHH, Go5G Business Plus, Go5G Military Business Plus, Go5G First Responder Business Plus, Business Unlimited Ultimate+, Go5G Puerto Rico Business Plus, Go5G DHH Business Plus, Magenta ® , Magenta ® MAX, Magenta 55+, Magenta ® MAX 55+, Magenta ® First Responder, Magenta ® MAX First Responder, Magenta ® Military, Magenta ® MAX Military, Magenta ® Deaf or Hard of Hearing, Magenta ® MAX Deaf or Hard of Hearing, Magenta ® Amplified, Business Unlimited Select, Business Unlimited Advanced, Business Unlimited Ultimate, Magenta ® for Business, and Magenta ® MAX for Business rate plans. Simple Choice, Select Choice, and ONE plans are also included.

Everyone on a T-Mobile Essentials™ plan gets unlimited texting and calling at $0.25 per minute in 215+ countries and destinations.

Essentials™ plans get free texting in 215+ countries and destinations. If you need data, purchase International Passes to get high-speed data and unlimited calling for 1, 10, or 30 days.

If you’re a T-Mobile customer on qualifying plan, you can add an International Pass to get more high-speed data and unlimited voice calling in 215+ countries and destinations.

• 1-Day (512MB) International Pass: 512MB of high-speed data and unlimited calling, to be used up to 24 hours, for $5.
• 10 day (5GB) International Pass: 5GB of high-speed data and unlimited calling, to be used up to 10 days, for $35.
• 30 Day (15GB) International Pass: 15GB of high-speed data and unlimited calling, to be used up to 30 days, for $50.

Use your International Pass high-speed data however you’d like throughout the designated time. You’re not restricted to a certain amount of data per day.

If you’re a primary account holder or authorized user, get an International Pass by using your T-Mobile app, logging on to My.T-Mobile.com, or following the link in the welcome text message you get when you enter an eligible country. Also, you can call our Team of Experts ® before your trip by dialing 611 on your mobile device.

Click here  to see if you’re traveling to one of the 215+ countries that gets free data and texting as part of your eligible plan.

You can check your cruise coverage  here . We recommend that you turn off roaming while the ship is docked in a US port. Otherwise, your phone may pick up the ship's network, and you'll be charged cruise ship roaming charges for any usage. Once you're out to sea, you can turn roaming back on and pay for the data, text, and voice you use.

International roaming is a service allowing you to continue using your mobile phone or other mobile device to browse the internet, as well as send and receive: emails, voice calls, and text messages while visiting another country.

The price you pay for Wi-Fi calls to international numbers when you're outside the US, depends on your international roaming option. The good news is, with most of our international roaming add-ons, you'll pay less for these calls than you did before. All Wi-Fi calls to US numbers are free of charge.

Our most popular plans include international texting from home and while traveling. Click here  to see if you’re traveling to one of the 215+ countries and destinations that gets data and texting as part of your eligible plan.

Great news, while roaming internationally, you won't be charged for voicemails left in your inbox if your phone remains powered off or in airplane mode. However, you will be charged for the following:

• If you answer an incoming call, you will be charged for the duration of the call.
• If your phone is on when you get an incoming call, even if you don't answer it and it goes to voicemail, the call is charged one minute for the call coming into the phone, based on the  international roaming rate  of the country you’re in. (There are no charges at all if your phone is turned off.)
• If you call your voicemail from your mobile phone to listen to messages while traveling internationally, that call will be charged at the international roaming rate of the country you're in.

Check out our international roaming checklist for everything you need to know before traveling abroad.

If you are a T-Mobile customer on qualifying plan, we have you covered with free data and texting in 215+ countries. There are some countries in which international roaming benefits do not apply, and international data passes cannot be used, you can check the list of those countries here .

A Virtual Private Network (VPN), is a way to help keep your connection secure, even while traveling. Be aware, that while on Wi-fi and connected to a VPN, your Internet usage goes through the VPN network you are connected to, wherever it's located. This means that while connected to a U.S. based VPN network, Wi-Fi calls made to non-US numbers, while outside the U.S., will be charged at international long-distance rates. See more details here .

Heads up! Many VPN services may connect automatically, or even be included in other services such as AdBlockers. 

Qualifying plan and capable device required. Not for extended international use; you must reside in the US and primary usage must occur on our network before international use. Device must register on our network before international use. Service may be terminated or restricted for excessive roaming. Coverage not available in some areas; we are not responsible for our partners’ networks.

Calls, including over Wi-Fi, are $.25/min. (no charge for Wi-Fi calls to US, Mexico, and Canada). Go5G plans: Up to 10GB high-speed data in select Central European countries; otherwise, standard speeds approximately 256 Kbps. Go5G Next and Go5G Plus: Up to 15GB high-speed data in 215+ countries and destinations, then unlimited at up to 256 Kbps. Additional charges apply in excluded destinations; see www.T‑Mobile.com for included destinations (subject to change at T‑Mobile's discretion). Qualifying postpaid plan and capable device required. Taxes additional; usage taxed in some countries. Voice and text features for direct communications between two people. Communications with premium-rate (e.g., 900, entertainment, high-rate helpline) numbers not included. Not for extended international use; you must reside in the US and primary usage must occur on our network . Device must register on our network before international use. Service may be terminated or restricted for excessive roaming. Coverage not available in some areas; we are not responsible for our partners’ networks.

Calls in 215+ countries and destinations, including over Wi-Fi, are $.25/min. (no charge for Wi-Fi calls to US, Mexico, and Canada). Up to 5GB high-speed data, then unlimited at up to 256 Kbps. Additional charges apply in excluded destinations; see www.T‑Mobile.com for included destinations (subject to change at T‑Mobile's discretion). Qualifying postpaid plan and capable device required. Taxes additional; usage taxed in some countries. Voice and text features for direct communications between two people. Communications with premium-rate (e.g., 900, entertainment, high-rate helpline) numbers not included.  Not for extended international use; you must reside in the US and primary usage must occur on our network.  Device must register on our network before international use. Service may be terminated or restricted for excessive roaming. Coverage not available in some areas; we are not responsible for our partners’ networks.

Calls, including over Wi-Fi, are $.25/min. (no charge for Wi-Fi calls to US, Mexico, and Canada). Up to 5GB high-speed data in select Central European countries; otherwise, standard speeds approximately 256 Kbps. Additional charges apply in excluded destinations; see www.T‑Mobile.com for included destinations (subject to change at T‑Mobile's discretion). Qualifying postpaid plan and capable device required. Taxes additional; usage taxed in some countries. Voice and text features for direct communications between two people. Communications with premium-rate (e.g., 900, entertainment, high-rate helpline) numbers not included.  Not for extended international use; you must reside in the US and primary usage must occur on our network.  Device must register on our network before international use. Service may be terminated or restricted for excessive roaming. Coverage not available in some areas; we are not responsible for our partners’ networks.

Qualifying plan required. Speeds and coverage vary based on device and location. Check www.T‑Mobile.com for details. After allotment, data slows to plan speed (up to 128Kbps for plans without international data service). Activating a new pass ends remaining benefits of prior pass. Usage rounded up to the nearest MB each session.

Qualifying plan. On US-based airlines; Wi-Fi Calling functionality, valid e911 address, and one prior Wi-Fi call with current SIM card required for messaging. Where available on select US airlines.

International calling from U.S./Canada/Mexico to landlines in over 70 countries and destinations, plus unlimited calling to mobiles in over 30 countries. Qualifying service required. Calls must originate on our U.S. network or in Canada/Mexico; otherwise international roaming rates apply. Must be direct communication between 2 people; certain numbers not included. See T‑Mobile.com for countries and rates; subject to change at our discretion.

Receive up to 40% off available accommodation bookings in the US including AK, HI, Puerto Rico, and US Virgin Islands and bookings for international travel. Discount is applied to price of room before taxes and any fees, including additional fees collected by the property at check-in. Reservations can only be made up to eleven months in advance of stay and are based on availability. All reservations are subject to the terms of the property and may not be able to be refunded, see individual location for details. Not valid for existing reservations, or with any other promotion, offer, discount, or coupon.

Receive up to 40% off pre-paid ("Pay Now") rental cars. Pay Now savings up to 30% discount is automatically applied to the Pay Now price if you select a Pay Now rental option. Up to 10% T‑Mobile Exclusive discount automatically applied to select Pay Now vehicle rentals. Discounted pricing is displayed at the time of booking compared to equivalent Pay Local/Later prices. Reservations can only be made up to twelve months in advance. Pay Now rates and vehicles based on availability. All reservations are subject to the terms of the supplier and may not be able to be refunded; see individual supplier for details. Not valid on existing car rental reservations, or with any other promotion, offer, discount, or coupon.

South Korean Travel & Tourism Sector Set to Reach New Heights in 2024

Image Credit WTTC   

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR) predicts a remarkable year for Travel & Tourism in South Korea, with significant growth in its economic contribution, employment, and visitor spending. According to the latest data, the sector's contribution to the national economy is expected to reach a record ₩96.2TN this year, representing a 13.6% year-on-year increase. This contribution underscores the sector's crucial role, accounting for 4.3% of the nation's economy. Employment within Travel & Tourism is also forecasted to surpass previous records, with total job of numbers anticipated to surpass to 1.4MN in 2024, highlighting the sector's vital role in job creation and economic stability. Visitor spending is also projected to witness substantial growth this year, with international visitor spend expected to reach 2019 levels to nearly ₩31.9TN, up 31.2% from last year.  Domestic visitor spending is also set to rise, achieving nearly ₩35.5TN, reflecting a 7.2% increase from 2019 levels and a 3% growth compared to 2023. Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “The impressive growth of South Korea's Travel & Tourism sector underscores the government's outstanding commitment to prioritising tourism as a key driver of economic development. “This dedication not only boosts economic growth but also enhances South Korea's profile as a premier destination for travellers worldwide.” Looking back on 2023 Last year, South Korea's Travel & Tourism sector experienced a resurgence, growing 18.2% to reach ₩84.71TN, representing 3.8% of the country's total economic output.  This growth was a significant rebound, although it remained 6.3% below 2019 levels.  The sector also contributed to the creation of 76.6k new jobs, bringing total employment to 1.34MN, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 6.1%. International and domestic spending also saw notable increases, with international visitor spending reaching ₩24.3TN and domestic spending climbing to ₩34.45TN. Outlook for the next decade Looking ahead, the WTTC forecasts that by 2034, South Korea's Travel & Tourism sector will significantly boost its annual GDP contribution to ₩130.9TN, accounting for nearly 5% of the national economy.  Employment in the sector is expected to exceed 1.8MN jobs, underscoring its role as a cornerstone of the national workforce and supporting 6.8% of all jobs in the country. Across Northeast Asia

Travel & Tourism in Northeast Asia is expected to grow by more than 29% this year to reach a record-breaking USD 2.3TN, whilst jobs could reach more than 89.5MN, just behind 2019 levels.  International spending is expected to reach more than USD 250BN this year, while domestic visitor spending is set to reach an all-time high of USD 1.2TN, surpassing the pre-pandemic level by almost 10%. See all the data in the South Korea Travel & Tourism Economic Impact Report  on the WTTC Research Hub.

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BTS singers Jimin and Jung Kook to star in new Disney+ travel show

Are you sure will see the pair travel around their native south korea, the usa, and japan..

K-pop stars Jimin and Jung Kook are to host a new Disney+ travel show, called Are You Sure?!

The show will see the pair travel around the world shopping, eating, and trying new experiences in New York in the USA, Sapporo in Japan, and Jeju Island in their native South Korea.

Jimin, 28, and Jung Kook, 26, rose to international stardom in K-pop band BTS, alongside Jin, 31, Suga, 31, J-Hope, 30, RM, 29, and V, 28.

The group is the best-selling music act in South Korean history, having sold more than 40 million albums, and the first, non-English speaking group to sell out Wembley Stadium.

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BTS have had four UK top 10 singles, including Life Goes On, Dynamite, and Butter, and five UK top 10 albums, including their last studio album, Be.

The five-time Grammy nominees are currently on hiatus until 2025, to allow members to undertake mandatory national service in their home country.

The eight-part series will air on Disney+ and see the pair visit sun-kissed beaches and snowy ski resorts.

Disney said the series would “give a deeper look into Jimin and Jung Kook’s undeniable chemistry and endearing friendship”.

The series will be available for streaming on Thursday August 8, with new episodes released every Thursday until September 19.

It comes after Coldplay performed their collaboration with BTS, My Universe, at Glastonbury.

In the past the South Korean group have recorded with the likes of Nicki Minaj, Halsey and The Chainsmokers.

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Seoul landmarks to be lit up to celebrate anniversary of K-pop band BTS

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BTS members ‘will serve in South Korean military’