English Program in Korea (EPIK) website

The English Program in Korea (EPIK), affiliated to the Korean Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, was established in 1995 to improve the English speaking abilities of students and teachers in Korea, to develop cultural exchanges and reform English teaching methodologies in Korea.

EPIK is interested in responsible, enthusiastic native English speakers who are motivated to share knowledge with students and teachers. Through EPIK, English language education will cultivate open-minded and well-rounded Korean individuals capable of advancing Korea in the age of information and globalization. In doing so, EPIK will promote cultural exchange and foster strong ties between Korea and other countries.

Application Requirements: 
  • Be a citizen of a country where English is the primary language. By E2 visa law, EPIK teachers should have citizenship in one of the following countries: Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, United Kingdom, United States or South Africa.
  • Must have studied from the junior high level (7th grade) and resided for at least 10 years or more in a country where English is the primary language. Ethnic Koreans with legal residency in a country where English is the primary language can apply, but must provide proof of English education beginning from the junior high school level.
  • Hold a minimum of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited program. Applicants with a 2-year Associate's degree or who have completed a minimum of 2 years in university can apply to the TaLK program.
  • Be a maximum of 62 years old.
  • Be mentally and physically healthy.
  • Have a good command of the English language.
  • Have the ability and willingness to adapt to Korean culture.
Benefits: 

For all levels of EPIK teachers:

  • Settlement allowance (one-time payment) within the first month of their first contract only.
  • Free furnished housing provided- single studio-type housing (utililities and maintenance fees are the responsibility of the EPIK teachers). If housing is unavailable, a monthly rent subsidy will be provided in lieu of free furnished housing.
  • Severance pay (equal to approximately one month's salary) to teachers who successfully complete a one-year contract with EPIK.
  • Entrance allowance (to be repaid in the case of early termination of contract).
  • Renewal allowance (provided upon successful completion and renewal of contract with the same Provincial Office of Education (POE).
  • Compulsory medical insurance- 50% of premiums paid by employer.
  • EPIK orientation and training related to living and teaching in Korea.

Employees shall work eight hours per day, five days per week excluding Saturdays, Sundays and Korean national holidays. Total instruction hours will not exceed 22 hours per week.