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Working Holiday in South Korea

Experience
Working Holiday
Destination
South Korea
Duration
6 to 12 months
Ages
20 to 35

263 others looking at this too. Next opening is Jan 2025, with limited spots.

Book now, pay later. Cancel anytime.

Trip overview

South Korea is a country that has a lot to offer travellers of all ages, from scrumptious BBQ delicacies, kimchi, bibimbap, and bulgogi to breathtaking views of the landscape and surroundings. Exploration beckons you in the Land of the Morning Calm, whether you want to take in the flashing lights of Seoul or the snowy peaks of the Taebaek Mountains.

And when you go on a Working Holiday in South Korea, you can live and work as an English teacher’s assistant for up to 12 months – even if you don’t have a degree.

You could wing it and try to do everything yourself. Sure, some people do, but more often than not, it’ll be confusing, expensive, anxiety-inducing, and time-consuming heading to a land unknown for the first time.

This is an experience you’ll likely only do once, and the last thing you'd want is to be returning home with your tail between your legs just after you had your going-away party (& blown all your savings).

But, luckily, we have the solution that 90,000 others before you have chosen since 2008, as the world's leaders in working holidays. What if you could instead:

  • With our Money-Back Guarantee in place, receive a South Korea English Assistant Job Match before you even arrive* – year-round & all-done virtually from home.
  • Enjoy a comprehensive arrival service packed with awesome cultural tours & activities.
  • Save time, money, and stress with your own dedicated Trip Coordinator.
  • Get help with flights, travel insurance, accommodation, visa applications & more.

Most travellers plan their trips 6-12 months in advance. Dates are flexible, but capacity is limited, so plan ahead of time! Avoid wasting weeks searching for a job and start enjoying your experience from day one.

This trip is ideal for anybody wanting the teacher’s experience in Korea but doesn't have a degree or doesn’t qualify for the correct teacher’s working visa. It’s complete with unique inclusions and fantastic excursions. Chances are that once you arrive, you'll want to stick around to keep immersing yourself in its 5,000-year-old heritage and culture.

Inclusions

Tap to expand

South Korea job match
Dedicated Trip Coordinator
Working holiday visa guidance
Pre-Departure Guide
Personal Travel Concierge
Private airport transfer
4 nights of hostel accommodation
"Welcome to South Korea" orientation
Online Korean cultural foundation course
Welcome dinner
Grand Palace tour and Hanbok experience
Korean cooking class
Cultural workshops
Permanent accommodation resources
Ongoing local team support
Global Emergency Line
gWorld access
SocialNEW
Global AcademyNEW
Invites to Global GetawaysNEW
Marketplace dealsNEW
$250 off your next trip

Just in case it’s not clear already, we’re not an employment or recruitment agency. Read more

Qualification

To qualify for this trip you must meet the following requirements:

  • Be between 20-35 years of age
  • Be a citizen of an eligible country
  • Have no criminal convictions in the past 5 years

Ask a question

Chat with us online now, or we can call you back for free, 24 hours Mon-Fri.

Meet your very first travel buddy, gWorld

Trip details

Finding a job in education in South Korea can be a tricky task – especially if you don’t have a degree. And it’s downright impossible if you don’t qualify for the correct teacher’s visa.

However, a job as an English teacher’s assistant is the perfect way to live and travel in South Korea long-term. These positions can be hard to find because only some language institutions consider hiring travellers without a degree. Our expertise lies in creating and maintaining ties with hundreds of local language institutions that employ travellers, so you can save time, money, and worry with interviews lined up to make your working trip the best it can be.

We've planned our Working Holiday in South Korea trip to help you settle overseas as quickly and comfortably as possible. Our skilled team can assist you with all of the stressful aspects of moving abroad, such as visa applications, bank accounts, job interviews, and finding an appropriate place to call home. Simply put, we're here to make your transition to working as a teacher’s assistant in South Korea as smooth as possible.

Arrive in the country confident that you are well ahead of any other visitor embarking on their working holiday in South Korea. With the hard work over, you can enjoy your first few days exploring your new home, seeing the great sites and making new friends before starting your job.

Our committed team will be there for you every step of the way. Your minimum contract period is 6 months – which means you’ll have plenty of opportunity to go off and explore this tremendous, action-packed nation, knowing that we'll be there for you when you need your next job interview (as long as you give the required notice to your previous employer).

Working in South Korea isn't just an overseas visit; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture, travel freely, and make lasting memories. Let us handle the logistics, so you can focus on exploring, meeting new people, and enjoying every moment.

Requirements

To qualify for this trip, you must be between the ages of 20 and 30, unless you are a British or Irish passport holder. British citizens qualify up to age 35, and Irish citizens qualify up to age 34.

You must be a fluent or near native English speaker and in good health. You must have proof of an onward ticket or sufficient funds to buy one. 

You must also meet all visa requirements, and have 6 months of paid work experience by time of arrival. You must not have previously entered South Korea on a Working Holiday visa and not have a criminal record. 

U.S. citizens must either be currently enrolled in university, or graduated within the past year at the time of applying for the visa.

What extra costs will I have?

Flights, travel insurance, visa, criminal background check, souvenirs, and spending money.

Trip itinerary

Day 1

Your personal chauffeur will be waiting for you outside when your plane touches down at Incheon International Airport. You'll be driven to Unseo on Yeongjong Island, next to Seoul, and dropped off at a top-rated hostel in the city's center, where you'll spend the first four nights. Let the vibe sink in and wander along the city's best attractions, from Namdaemun Market to Gyeongbokgung Palace. Don't rush anything; take your time, meet some new people, and get settled.

Days 2-4

Over the next three days, dive into a fantastic cultural orientation brimming with exciting activities and lively interactions led by native speakers. Held in Incheon, this experience offers a mix of fun and educational cultural activities. Learn how to whip up traditional Korean dishes and maybe even try on some Hanbok at Seoul's Grand Palace if the weather cooperates. Plus, get ready for a mouth-watering welcome dinner where you can mingle with fellow travellers and enjoy some authentic Korean cuisine.

Day 5

Usually, after your four-night stay in Seoul, it will be time to head to your job placement! If you haven't found accommodation on your own or if staff housing isn't available, our team can help you secure a suitable place to live.

Ongoing

Our team will always keep in touch with you throughout your stay. If at any point during your trip you need advice or support, our team will be on hand to answer all your questions. Stay connected with Social, where you can reach out to your Community Manager, stay updated with events happening in the country and chat with Global Travellers near you. You will also be invited to traveller meet-ups and exclusive Global Getaways, giving you access to short bucket-list side trips to awesome locations so you can continue to make new friends and see the world together.

Working Holiday jobs & locations in South Korea

All job placements are for the role of an English Teacher's Assistant, with job duties including: 

  • Riding the school bus with students
  • Greeting students and parents as they enter and leave the school
  • Helping students during break times
  • Assisting teachers with lesson planning and creating materials for class
  • Having lunch with students and helping during these lunch breaks
  • Checking attendance

Most job placements are in the greater Seoul, Gyeonggi-do, and Incheon areas but could also be throughout the country. Though preferences are taken into account, placement location cannot be guaranteed and is subject to availability.

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Frequently asked questions

Why are you the best company to choose?

As the world’s leading gap-year and "work & travel" company, we pride ourselves on providing a premium service for Global Travellers. Choose from a variety of awesome experiences worldwide, and let us assist you with visas, pre-departure preparations, flights, insurance, and tours. Throughout your journey, our cool tech features will support you every step of the way. As a Global Traveller, gain access to gWorld, our personalised app designed to enhance your travel experience. Keep important documents and trip details handy, and take advantage of exclusive Marketplace deals, a vibrant social network, language learning resources, side trips, meet-ups, and more. It's like having all your favorite travel apps merged into one, but even better! But our support doesn't end there. With four international offices, over 100 dedicated staff members, a 24/5 emergency team, and the backing of over 90,000 Global Travellers who have turned their travel dreams into reality with us, rest assured you're in good hands. We also proudly boast the most and best reviews in the biz, and maintain a massive following on our social channels including Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Embark on your next adventure with confidence and ease. Join us and discover the world in a meaningful way!

Are flights & insurance included?

While we would love to include flights and insurance in our trip packages, it is not feasible to have a fixed price due to the diverse destinations, trip durations, and individual coverage needs of our travellers from around the globe. However, once you register for the trip, we will assign you a dedicated Travel Concierge. They will work closely with you to arrange the ideal flights and insurance tailored to your specific adventure. Rest assured, our team is here to ensure you have a smooth and hassle-free travel experience from start to finish!

How does accommodation work?

When it comes to accommodation, we have some great options available for you. Many of our partner organisations offer staff accommodation as a fantastic perk. This usually entails a shared apartment or house with other like-minded travelers, conveniently located near your job. The best part is that these accommodations are often available at a subsidised rate, allowing you to save more toward side trips and fun! In the event that staff accommodation is not included with your job match, don't worry. Your Arrival Coordinator will be there to provide you with valuable resources and helpful tips on finding a suitable place to stay.

What's the difference between your standard Working Holiday and Plus?

The Standard and Plus Working Holiday trips offer similar features, such as our comprehensive job matching process. However, there are a couple key differences between the two: Standard: With the Standard trip, you will receive a guaranteed job match prior to your arrival*. Plus: The Plus trip includes a guaranteed job match prior to your arrival*, just like the Standard trip. In addition, it offers the unique benefit of a 2nd job match in an entirely new country! This includes any Working Holiday, Au Pair or Tutor trip we offer, except USA, Germany & South Korea. Visa guidance will also be provided, TCs apply. Along with this, the Plus trip also provides additional tours and a side trip to enhance your experience. If you like the idea of working and travelling in more than one country, the Plus option is best suited for you. It provides the opportunity for ongoing exploration and variety during your time abroad. No need to make a decision right away on which option to choose. If you initially book the Standard trip, you can always upgrade to the Plus trip after getting registered and connecting with your dedicated Trip Coordinator.

Do I get to choose where I work?

While we strive to take your preferences into account, it's important to note that we are not a recruitment agency. Therefore, we cannot guarantee job matches in specific professions, fields, or locations. As a foreign worker on a temporary visa, it can be challenging to compete with locals for more specialised positions. Employers often prioritise candidates they can train and retain in the long term, rather than taking a risk on someone who may leave in a year or two, or less. However, the jobs we help organise on your working holiday will offer a fantastic experience. They will be enjoyable and social, allowing you to make new friends, acquire new skills, and have the freedom to explore exciting new places. Our aim is to provide you with an amazing working holiday experience, where you can embrace adventure and create unforgettable memories.

What is a job match, does this mean a guaranteed job?

A job match is a seamless process designed to help you secure a suitable job opportunity. Here's how it works: First, we arrange an interview for you, taking into consideration your preferences whenever possible. The interviews are typically conducted virtually over platforms like Zoom, Skype, or FaceTime, making it convenient for you to participate from the comfort of your home before you embark on your trip. The key to a successful job match is simple: attend the interview on time and approach it just like any other professional interview. By demonstrating professionalism and enthusiasm, you'll increase your chances of securing a job offer without any complications. In the unlikely chance you are unsuccessful with your initial interview, our team will get to work organising you another interview. You can rest assured we are committed to finding the right opportunity for you and guiding you through each and every step of the job matching process to ensure success. For more details, please refer to your booking conditions.

Will I have any free time to travel?

Absolutely! While the jobs we help you land usually provide full-time hours, they often come with flexibility that will allow you to take time off for side trips, exploring, and fun. We understand the importance of travel experiences, and our aim is to provide opportunities that balance work and leisure. While the level of flexibility can vary based on the specific job and employer, we strive to match you with positions that provide allowances or arrangements for time off. This way, you can plan and enjoy additional adventures before, during, or after your work placement!

What job opportunities do you offer?

Ever since our inception in 2008, we have been dedicated to providing exceptional job opportunities to our travellers. We take pride in having built the largest network of partner organisations across the country, all vetted and perfectly suited to host a working holidayer. One of the greatest advantages of going Global is that we streamline the entire process for you, meaning, you won't need to go through the hassle of attending job fairs (like our competitors make you do) or spending countless hours job hunting. We take care of the hard work by understanding your job and location preferences, then connect you with one of our awesome partner organisations. We then ensure you are well-prepared for the interview, to help you land a job before you leave home*. To explore all the amazing options available, we invite you to check out our Working Holiday jobs & locations section located above.

Why do a working holiday?

The benefits of doing a Working Holiday trip are numerous. It offers you the opportunity to experience a new country, immerse yourself in a different culture, gain international work experience, develop new skills, make lifelong connections, and create unforgettable memories. It is a chance to combine travel and work while exploring a new destination.

What support is provided by Global Work & Travel during my Working Holiday trip?

We provide comprehensive support throughout your Working Holiday trip, from the initial planning stages until your return home. Our team is available to assist you with visa applications, job placements, accommodation options, and ongoing support from our worldwide offices while you are overseas, including a 24/5 emergency line. We also provide pre-departure guidance and resources to help you prepare for your adventure.

Will I earn enough to support myself?

Absolutely! While the earning potential may vary based on your destination and job type, the income you'll receive is more than sufficient to support you comfortably while abroad. It can cover all your living expenses, accommodation, transportation, and even allows for savings to explore your new home or continue travelling afterward. Additionally, many of our partner organisations offer fantastic perks like discounted staff housing, food and beverage, ski passes, and more, helping you save money and make the most of your Working Holiday experience.

Why should I book now?

After the last unexpected disruption to travel caused by the..c word..people are now more eager than ever to venture out and explore the world, determined not to miss out on any experiences. Global Work & Travel works on a first-in-best-dressed basis. Booking earlier ensures that you don’t miss out on the best intake, season, placements and more! We recommend our travellers take 6-12+ months to plan their trip for a reason - to make sure you’ve got everything organised perfectly, stress-free. As a Global Traveller you’ll get exclusive access to gWorld, our personalised app where you can keep all of your important documents and trip details in one spot and gain insider access to everything Global. This is where you will find exclusive Marketplace Deals, a unique social network to connect you with other like-minded Global Travellers, access to our Academy with an ever-growing range of skills & languages, and so much more. Think all of your favourite apps merged into one, but like, better? Why not give yourself something to look forward to by booking that trip!

Can I travel with a friend or partner?

Yes you can! Simply tell your Trip Coordinator after booking that your friend is also going and they can link your profiles. For most of our trips we should be able to have you and your friends placed together or nearby. Meaning that you can live, work, play & travel together! But wait there's more! Not only can you travel the world with your besties at your side, you can also earn some extra cash towards your own trip just by referring your friends to Global Work & Travel. You can learn more about the great referral rewards program inside your gWorld account once you join. And for those who decide to go-it-solo, we’ve made it easier to meet other Global Travellers in the same region as you. Just like any other social platform, you’ll be able to interact, share, chat and meet with some really cool people who are doing trips just like you!

Can I bring my pet along?

At Global Work & Travel, we share a deep love for animals and fully understand the special bond you have with your pet. We recognise the challenges of embarking on a trip without them. Due to travel restrictions, requirements, and limited pet-friendly accommodations among our host organisations, we regretfully cannot facilitate their inclusion in the journey. However, many of our customers choose to entrust their pets to a family member or friend, embark on their adventure, and return home to wagging tails and furry cuddles.

What happens if I need to cancel my trip?

We know that life can get in the way of travel, so all our trips come with a great deal of flexibility. In most cases, if you cannot travel on your selected date, you can place your trip on hold to deal with whatever is holding you back, and continue in the future without incurring any penalty. You may also have the option of transferring to an entirely different trip and destination as well, or even transferring your trip to a friend or family member. In the event that you need to outright cancel your trip, if you give us 84* days notice you can do so with only a 50% cancellation fee. Your refund of the balance will come in the form of a Store Credit which you can put toward any other trip that we offer, including tours through third-party providers, as well as holidays through DealsAway.com, and is valid for 2 years from date of issue. As international travel can be complex, your options are based on the progress of your trip organisation and our support team can assist you in finding the best solution for your needs.

How it works

1. Choose a trip style

Find your dream experience & destination, then secure your spot with a flexible & low deposit. Activate your gWorld to unlock some cool perks. Well done! The hardest part’s over!

2. We become friends

Book a time to meet your dedicated Trip Coordinator who knows all the ins & outs of your trip. They’ll be by your side and working behind-the-scenes to pull everything together.

3. Time to go!

We’ll get your tickets, accommodation & transfers ready. Our in-country team or partner will have everything prepared & waiting for your arrival. Get on the plane with no worries!

4. 24/5 support

Never stress, knowing we’re there with you when you need us with ongoing & unlimited local team support. And just in case, we’ve got an emergency team on stand-by, 24 hours, Mon-Fri.

Still have questions?

Why go Global

Flexible trips

The unexpected can happen sometimes. Can't travel right now? Swap your trip, gift it or save it for later with our Lifetime Deposit Guarantee.

Worldwide support

Know that someone is always ready to assist throughout the journey & they’re only a call, tweet, comment, text or double tap away, 24/5.

We're the experts

With over 10 years in the industry and a team of over 90 passionate pros, you can bet we know our stuff better than anyone else.

Partner network

We have over 1,200 partners around the globe, so we have access to plenty of exclusive opportunities to make your trip the best it can be.

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