💼 Finding a Job in Korea as a Foreigner: Your Complete Guide
Looking to live and work in Korea? It’s absolutely possible—with the right visa, strategy, and network. This guide walks you through everything: job portals, CV tips, interview prep, workplace culture, and more.
📚 Table of Contents
1. Choosing the Right Visa
- E‑2 (Teaching Visa): Teach English at a school or hagwon.
- D‑10 (Job-Seeker Visa): Search for jobs up to 6 months.
- D‑8 (Corporate): For foreign-invested companies or transfer jobs.
- E‑7 (Specialist): For fields like IT, engineering, translation.
Check the official HiKorea site for current visa details: HiKorea.go.kr.
2. Best Job Portals & Agencies
- PeoplenJob: English-focused listings in Korea.
- WorknPlay: Language teaching & hospitality roles.
- LinkedIn: Use filters—Seoul area, English-speaking roles.
- Wooridle: For multicultural and skilled professionals.
Recruitment agencies like JAC Recruitment or Robert Walters Korea are also worth exploring.
3. CV & Resume Tips
- Include a professional photo (3×4 cm passport style).
- Highlight Korean language proficiency (TOPIK level).
- List any Korean work experience—even internships or volunteering.
- Include education and qualifications, e.g., degree, certifications.
4. Acing the Interview
- Learn formal greetings: 안녕하세요, 만나서 반갑습니다 (Annyeonghaseyo, mannaseo bangapseumnida).
- Prepare a short self-introduction in Korean: 한국에 온 지 2년 되었습니다 (Hanguke on ji iyeon dwaesseumnida).
- Be punctual—arrive early, ideally 10 minutes before.
- Bring extra copies of your resume and a Korean calendar.
5. Understanding Korean Work Culture
- Hierarchy matters—always show respect to senior colleagues.
- Hoesik (회식): Company dinners are common—attend if invited.
- Be prepared to work longer hours—sometimes past 6 PM.
6. Networking & Community
Getting referred by someone is a big advantage:
- Join English-speaking networks like Internations or Meetup Seoul.
- Attend industry events, seminars, and webinars.
Consider contributing to local Korean-language blogs or volunteering to build your Korean network.
7. Did You Know?
🔍 According to the Korean Ministry of Employment and Labor, over 200,000 foreign professionals work in Korea (as of 2024). The demand for international talent continues to grow in tech, education, creative industries, and more!
8. Learn Korean with Me
🎓 Want to improve your Korean for job interviews, business emails, or workplace conversations?
Book a personalized lesson with me on italki and let’s prepare you for success in Korea!
