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Embark Recruiting

As former native English teachers in Korea, we know exactly what it’s like to navigate teaching abroad—the excitement, the challenges, and everything in between. That’s why we’re committed to increasing transparency in schools, protecting teachers’ rights, and helping improve Korea’s ESL teaching industry.

At Embark Recruiting, we provide full support to help you succeed, whether it’s finding a reputable school, understanding your contract, or adjusting to life in Korea. Our blog is your go-to resource for guidance, tips, and insider knowledge every step of the way.

Posts : Life in Korea (2)

All Embark MatchPlus (9) Teaching in Korea (2) Visa Guide (9) Tax and Labor Rights (3) Life in Korea (2)

Packing for Korea as an English Teacher: What to Bring (and What to Leave Behind)

by Embark Recruiting

Life in Korea (2/2)

Packing for Korea as an English Teacher: What to Bring (and What to Leave Behind)

Getting ready to move to South Korea to teach English can feel overwhelming—especially when it comes to packing. After living and teaching in Korea for over 4 years, I now have a much clearer idea of what’s actually useful, what’s easy to buy locally, and what you’ll wish you had brought from home. Here’s my advice for packing smart before you start your teaching adventure. Essentials: Passport & Visa Driver’s License (International Driving Permit if needed) Health Insurance Info (or enrollment in Korean National Health Insurance) Important Documents (birth certificate, work/school contracts, etc.) Clothing (for all seasons): Winter (Dec-Feb): Warm coat/parka, gloves, scarf, boots Spring/Fall (Mar-May, Sept-Nov): Light jacket, sweaters, comfortable shoes Summer (Jun-Aug): Lightweight clothing, umbrella, sunscreen, breathable shoes *Clothes are relatively cheap in Korea, but offline stores may have limited sizes. Summers are hot and humid. Winters are cold and snowy. Toiletries & Personal Care: Basic Toiletries (products that you absolutely need from your home country) Prescription Medications (with a doctor’s note)* *Please check in advance if your medication is permitted in Korea before bringing it with you (maximum of 6 bottles). Electronics: Phone & Charger Laptop (check plug type: Korea uses 220V with Type C/F plugs) Power Adapter (for Korean outlets) Portable Charger External Hard Drive or USB Drive Money & Banking: Bank Cards & Cash (some cash in Korean won for initial expenses) Banking Info (for setting up a local account) Food & Snacks: Favorite Snacks (things you can’t find easily in Korea) Special Diet Foods (if applicable) Miscellaneous: Reusable Water Bottle Personal Items (photos, mementos, small gifts)

Bringing Pets to Korea as an English Teacher | What You Need to Know Before Moving with Your Cat or Dog

by Embark Recruiting

Life in Korea (1/2)

Bringing Pets to Korea as an English Teacher | What You Need to Know Before Moving with Your Cat or Dog

Bringing Pets to Korea as an English Teacher Moving abroad to teach English in Korea can be one of the most exciting adventures of your life—but if you’re a proud pet parent, it also comes with extra challenges. When I moved to Korea, I couldn’t imagine leaving my cat behind, so I made the journey with her. Looking back, I learned a lot about what it really takes to bring a pet to Korea as an English teacher. Here’s what you should know before you make the move. Any excuse to share a picture of my cat is a good one. 1. Pet-Friendly Housing Isn’t Always Provided One of the biggest challenges new teachers face is housing. Many schools and academies provide studio apartments for their teachers, but not all are pet-friendly. Before signing your contract, make sure to ask your recruiter or school about their housing policy regarding pets. If the school doesn’t allow them, you may need to find your own accommodation, which could mean higher costs. 2. Be Prepared for Cleaning and Damage Fees Even if you’re lucky enough to get pet-friendly housing, you’ll still be responsible for any cleaning or damage caused by your pet. For example, scratched floors, chewed furniture, or strong odors can all result in deductions from your housing deposit. It’s a good idea to bring scratching posts, litter mats, or other preventative items to help protect the apartment—and your wallet. 3. Travel and Quarantine Requirements To bring a cat or dog to Korea, you’ll need to follow specific import requirements, including microchipping, vaccinations (especially rabies), and paperwork approved by both your home country and Korean authorities. Fortunately, Korea does not usually require quarantine for pets arriving with the proper documents, but the process still takes planning. Make sure to start early, as it can take months to gather everything. 4. Lifestyle Adjustments Depending on your location, veterinary care and pet supplies may be harder to access than back home. If you’re teaching in a city like Seoul or Busan, you’ll have more options for veterinarians (especially ones that provide English service), groomers, and pet stores, but in smaller towns, you may need to plan trips for supplies. Final Thoughts Bringing a pet to Korea is absolutely possible, but it takes careful preparation. Before committing, ask yourself if you’re ready to handle the extra costs, responsibilities, and restrictions that come with moving abroad with a furry friend. For me, having my cat by my side made Korea feel like home, but it’s not the right choice for everyone.