MAJOR/METROPOLITAN CITIES
One of the most common themes we hear from new applicants is: "I want to be in Seoul, because I want to make sure I'm around other foreigners and want to be in a city environment. I don't want to be stuck out in the countryside somewhere."
We AGREE completely. We feel that unless you specifically ask for a small city, we will focus on finding you a great placement in an exciting, modern, urban location in Korea.
We have to admit that the information on these cities that you'll first see on Wikipedia or Official city pages is not very enticing or relevant to an ESL teacher venturing to the other side of the world. While it might be interesting to know which dynasty ruled Daegu in 1543, what the main crop in Jeonju is, or which companies have factories in Pohang, foreigners considering a city like Gwangju want to be confident they'll find: other foreigners to meet and hang out with, western food and entertainment options, cultural events, green space and easy public transportation. For this reason, we have worked with past and current TEK alumni to gather as much relevant and useful information as we possible could, to make it readily available for our teachers and help them make an informed decision. If you still feel Seoul is the best place for you after going over this information, we will fully stand behind your choice.
Gwangju,
jeollanam-do
Gwangju is a diverse and vibrant city; the 6th largest in Korea with a population of about 1.5 million. There is much to do and always something happening that you can get involved in. Gwangju is famous for its food and thriving foreigner community. Among the foreigners who live, Gwangju is also loved for having open, friendly and helpful locals.
Gwangju is located in the south of the country and is surrounded by mountains and a beautiful countryside. Several cities are within easy reach by bus or train. For example, Seoul can be reached on the KTX in just over 2.5 hours!
Daegu,
Gyeongsan-do
Daegu is the 4th largest city in South Korea and is peacefully nestled into a basin of mountains. Daegu has everything you would expect from a city with a population of 2.5 million, yet step across the highway and you are in the mountains, away from it all.
Daegu is famous for fashion, apples, hiking, baseball games, and is the warmest city in South Korea.
A river cuts through the city, and along it are free exercising stations, bike paths, basketball and tennis courts, playgrounds, and easy access to many stores and shops.
Daejeon,
Chungcheongnam-do
Daejeon is the perfect central city and ideal for first time teachers. Not only is there a large, well-connected and welcoming foreigner community, Daejeon is a metropolis of 1.5 million people and the 5th largest city in Korea.
This means an endless selection of restaurants, bars, shopping and arts. There are 18 universities in Daejeon, with entertainment to match.
Daejeon also has some of Korea's best beaches nearby on the west coast. And if you're into nature and hikind, you will love all of the green space and mountains that surround the city.