Question 1

Can I choose which GEPIK city I teach in?

Accepted Answer

You can indicate preferences during the application and Korvia interview — major urban (Suwon, Seongnam, Bundang), mid-size urban (Ansan, Bucheon), or rural (Paju, Yangpyeong). Final placement is assigned by the Gyeonggi-do Office of Education (GOE) based on school availability and your qualifications. Korvia advocates for your preferences throughout.

Question 2

What's the difference between Urban and Rural placements?

Accepted Answer

Urban cities have high population density, direct subway access to Seoul, and abundant amenities (international markets, English-speaking hospitals, foreigner communities). Rural counties (eup/myeon level) are quieter with more nature — and come with a +₩100,000/month Rural Allowance. Both offer the same base GEPIK contract.

Question 3

Can I commute to Seoul daily from my GEPIK school?

Accepted Answer

Yes for northern Gyeonggi cities (Goyang, Paju, Uijeongbu, Bucheon, Gwangmyeong) — typically 25-45 minutes by subway. Most teachers instead live near their school (free housing) and visit Seoul on weekends. The subway network across Gyeonggi makes weekend Seoul trips very easy.

Question 4

Which cities have the most international community?

Accepted Answer

Pyeongtaek (Camp Humphreys USFK base), Bundang / Pangyo (tech workers), Ilsan / Goyang (expat families), Ansan (largest foreign-worker community), and Suwon (universities). Rural placements have smaller but tight-knit teacher communities — often you'll know all the other GEPIK teachers in your county.

Question 5

Are metropolitan cities harder to get placed in?

Accepted Answer

Yes, somewhat. Due to recent budget adjustments, metropolitan Gyeonggi cities (especially Suwon, Seongnam, Goyang) have fewer open positions than in past years — making them more competitive. Mid-size cities and rural counties have more availability. If urban Gyeonggi is your priority, apply as early as possible in the recruitment cycle.

Question 6

Do I pick elementary, middle, or high school along with the city?

Accepted Answer

You can indicate a school-level preference (elementary, middle, high) during application. Most GEPIK placements are elementary school — they have the highest demand for native speakers. Middle and high school placements are less common but available, typically for candidates with prior secondary teaching experience.

GEPIK Locations in Gyeonggi

Urban Locations

Suwon

Goyang

Seongnam

Yongin

Bucheon

Ansan

Anyang

Pyeongtaek

Siheung

Uijeongbu

Gwangmyeong

Gunpo

Guri

Osan

Hanam

Uiwang

Gwacheon

Rural Locations

Namyangju

Hwaseong

Paju

Gimpo

Gwangju

Icheon

Anseong

Yangju

Pocheon

Yeoju

Yangpyeong

Dongducheon

Gapyeong

Yeoncheon

Location FAQ

Q.Can I choose which GEPIK city I teach in?

Q.What's the difference between Urban and Rural placements?

Q.Can I commute to Seoul daily from my GEPIK school?

Q.Which cities have the most international community?

Q.Are metropolitan cities harder to get placed in?

Q.Do I pick elementary, middle, or high school along with the city?

Find Your Gyeonggi City — Apply Through Korvia