EPIK Contract Information (2026)
Key terms from the official EPIK employment contract. Know what you're signing before you arrive.
The EPIK contract is a 12-month (365/366 days)employment agreement between you and the Provincial/Metropolitan Office of Education. It is renewable by mutual agreement. The contract follows Korean labor law and EPIK's national standards.
Contract Key Terms
| Term | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | One calendar year (365 or 366 days) |
| Working Hours | 8 hours daily, 5 days per week (Monday–Friday) |
| Teaching Hours | Maximum 22 class hours per week unless requested by MOE/POE with overtime compensation |
| Class Duration | Elementary: 40 min, Middle school: 45 min, High school: 50 min |
| Vacation | 26 paid vacation days per year. Must be taken during school recess periods. |
| National Holidays | Approximately 16 Korean national holidays per year (paid) |
| Renewal | Possible by mutual agreement between teacher, school, and education office |
| Orientation | Mandatory, approximately 1 week. Unpaid, but accommodation and meals provided |
| Notice Period | Contract termination requires advance notice per Korean labor law |
Contract Renewal
Who Can Renew?
Any teacher who successfully completes their contract can request renewal with the same province. Both the school and education office must agree.
Renewal Benefits
Renewing teachers receive a renewal bonus (₩700,000–₩2,000,000) and are eligible for the highest salary tier (Level 1+/S). This is the fastest way to maximize your EPIK income.
Timeline
Renewal decisions are typically made 2-3 months before your contract end date. Korvia can assist with the renewal process.