South Korea is one of the most popular destinations for teaching English and for foreign professionals seeking work abroad. With a strong demand for English education, a safe and modern living environment, and a unique blend of tradition and high-tech culture, Korea offers an exciting opportunity for both short-term adventures and long-term career growth.
But one question often comes up for prospective teachers and professionals alike: Which city is the best to work in? And more importantly, are English teachers still in demand in 2025? In this blog post, we’ll explore both of these topics from the perspective of foreign job seekers looking to build their lives in South Korea.
Are English Teachers Still in Demand in Korea?
The short answer is yes — English teachers continue to be in high demand, though the nature of that demand is evolving.
Why the Demand Remains Strong
Education is a National Priority: English proficiency is considered a key skill for university admission, job competitiveness, and overseas study.
Private Education Market: Korea’s hagwon (private academy) industry is a multi-billion dollar market. Most students attend some form of private English education starting as early as age 4.
Public School Programs: While programs like EPIK have reduced in size over the years, they still hire new teachers annually — especially for provincial placements.
Parents Want Native Speakers: There is still a strong perception that native English speakers provide better pronunciation, conversation skills, and cultural context.
Where the Demand Is Shifting
Higher qualifications required: More schools now prefer TEFL-certified teachers, or those with prior experience.
Growing competition in Seoul: The capital attracts the most applicants, making job openings there more competitive.
Rural schools struggle to hire: Ironically, demand is often higher in less urbanized areas where fewer applicants are willing to go.
Online and content-based teaching roles: EdTech and curriculum creation jobs are growing, offering alternatives to traditional classrooms.
So while the “gold rush” period of the early 2000s has passed, teaching jobs are abundant and stable for well-prepared applicants.
Best Cities to Work in South Korea as a Foreigner
Choosing the best city to live and work in depends on your priorities — whether it’s nightlife, nature, cost of living, cultural immersion, or professional development. Below are some of the most popular cities for expats and English teachers, along with what makes each one unique.
Seoul – Best for Networking, Amenities, and Big City Life
Seoul is the undisputed epicenter of everything modern and global in Korea. It offers the most job opportunities, including hagwons, public schools, universities, and private corporations.
Pros:
Endless things to do: nightlife, cafés, art galleries, K-pop events
Largest international community, especially in Itaewon, Gangnam, and Hongdae
Access to top-tier schools, hospitals, and global brands
Great for career building in tech, media, and international business
Cons:
Higher cost of living
Highly competitive job market
Smaller living spaces
Seoul is perfect for those who want fast-paced city life with strong foreigner support networks.
Busan – Best for Coastal Living and Lifestyle Balance
Busan is Korea’s second-largest city and offers a more relaxed lifestyle with the same urban comforts as Seoul.
Pros:
Beautiful beaches, mountains, and seafood markets
More affordable rent compared to Seoul
Growing expat community
Big enough for convenience, small enough to breathe
Cons:
Fewer job openings compared to Seoul
Public transportation is slower to expand
Slightly more conservative in some districts
If you want modern life with access to nature and ocean views, Busan is a strong choice.
Incheon – Best for Airport Access and Budget-Friendly Living
Incheon is home to Korea’s largest international airport and is part of the greater Seoul metropolitan area.
Pros:
Quick access to Seoul via subway or express train
Home to Incheon Global Campus (IGC) — many foreign universities and teaching jobs
Lower housing costs
Planned smart city developments in Songdo
Cons:
Fewer entertainment options than Seoul
Still developing in terms of nightlife and culture
Incheon suits teachers who want city convenience without Seoul’s high prices.
Daegu – Best for a Mix of Urban and Traditional Korean Culture
Daegu is a mid-sized city known for its hot summers, traditional markets, and vibrant textile and fashion scene.
Pros:
Many public and private schools
Friendly, welcoming locals
Lower cost of living
Easy access to national parks and hiking trails
Cons:
Fewer foreigner-specific events or spaces
Regional accent may be difficult to understand at first
Daegu is ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in Korean culture with fewer distractions.
Gwangju – Best for a Meaningful Local Experience
Gwangju is a culturally rich city in the southwest, famous for its democratic history and arts scene.
Pros:
Tight-knit expat teaching community
Known for creative arts, design, and local food
Lower competition for jobs
Affordable rent and living expenses
Cons:
Fewer entertainment options than major cities
Travel to other regions takes longer due to location
Great for teachers looking to build deeper relationships and escape the “big city rush.”
Jeju Island – Best for Nature Lovers and Adventurers
If you dream of beaches, volcanic hikes, and a slower pace of life, Jeju is the place.
Pros:
Stunning natural beauty
Unique island culture
Growing number of international schools and online teaching roles
Cons:
Fewer job listings
Less access to big-city amenities
Can feel isolating long-term
Jeju is great for experienced teachers or those doing hybrid/remote work who prioritize lifestyle over city access.
Honorable Mentions
Suwon: Close to Seoul, with its own historic and tech infrastructure
Ulsan: Known for high salaries in corporate or technical English teaching roles
Daejeon: A major transportation hub with growing opportunities in science and education
Pohang: Coastal city with university roles and tech investment
Cheongju: Quiet, affordable, and home to several schools in need of native teachers
What City Should You Choose?
Here’s a quick comparison table:
| City | Best For | Lifestyle | Job Volume | Cost of Living |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seoul | Career growth, international vibe | High energy | High | High |
| Busan | Beaches, relaxation | Balanced | Medium | Medium |
| Incheon | Proximity to Seoul, airport access | Suburban | Medium | Lower |
| Daegu | Cultural immersion, outdoors | Quiet | Medium | Low |
| Gwangju | Arts, community life | Slower pace | Low | Low |
| Jeju | Nature, retreat lifestyle | Calm | Low | Medium |
South Korea Offers More Than Just Seoul
While Seoul remains the top destination for most foreign teachers and professionals, Korea’s other cities offer compelling reasons to branch out. Whether you’re seeking adventure, professional development, or simply a balanced way of life, there’s a city that fits your goals.
And yes — English teachers are still very much in demand in 2025. If you come prepared, certified, and open-minded, there are opportunities waiting across the country.
Choosing the right city is about more than job listings — it’s about finding the lifestyle, values, and environment that help you thrive in your teaching or professional journey abroad.