Why Taiwan Beats South Korea for English Teachers: Insider Secrets Revealed

Why Taiwan Beats South Korea for English Teachers: Insider Secrets Revealed

Living and teaching English in Asia can be an incredible experience. As a teacher, you get the opportunity to work with students from all walks of life, experience different cultures, and explore new countries. I have had the pleasure of living and teaching in both Taiwan and South Korea, and I can honestly say that both places have a lot to offer.

When I started teaching English in Asia, I began in South Korea. At the time, finding English teachers in South Korea was a lot harder than it is today. The internet was not as active, and the job market was not as saturated as it is now. As a result, you could pretty much ensure your job security by working in a remote location.

One of the pros of teaching in South Korea is the high salary. Salaries for English teachers in South Korea are often higher than in Taiwan, and the cost of living is reasonable. However, the downside is that the culture in South Korea can be very hectic. There is often an invisible pressure to keep going, even when everything is fine. I found this to be a bit overwhelming at times, and it was one of the reasons I decided to leave South Korea after a few years.

Taiwan, on the other hand, has a slower pace of life. People are generally more relaxed, and the lifestyle is less hectic. As an English teacher, you can still earn a good salary in Taiwan, especially if you work in Taipei. However, competition is tough, and you may be treated as a commodity. Nonetheless, Taiwan is an excellent place for those looking to put down roots and stay for a long time.

One of the things I loved about South Korea was the food. The food is healthy, and there is not a lot of variety, but it is delicious. I missed the food when I moved to Taiwan, where the food is excellent, but it is a bit oily. The food in Taiwan is less healthy, but there is a wider variety, and it is just as delicious.

Another significant difference between the two places is the technology. South Korea is ahead of Taiwan when it comes to technology. They have the best plasma screens TVs, and their economy is strong. Taiwan, on the other hand, tends to be slower in adopting new technologies, but they excel in other areas, such as manufacturing.

Culture is another area where the two countries differ. In South Korea, the foreigner versus Korean issue is much more pronounced. As a foreigner, it can be challenging to feel accepted and fit in with the locals. In Taiwan, the culture is more open and accepting, and people are generally friendly and welcoming to foreigners.

In conclusion, both Taiwan and South Korea have their pros and cons, and it depends on what you are looking for in terms of work, lifestyle, and culture. As someone who has lived in both places, I would recommend taking the time to explore both countries and see which one suits you best. Both countries have a lot to offer, and you are sure to have an incredible experience no matter which one you choose.