SMOE Teaching Duties & Responsibilities
What does a typical day look like for an English teacher in a Seoul public school?
SMOE teachers work 8 hours per day, Monday through Friday (typically 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM). The maximum teaching load is 22 contact hours per week, with the remainder spent on lesson preparation, grading, and school activities. You co-teach alongside a Korean English teacher in elementary (40-min classes), middle (45-min), or high school (50-min) settings.
What Does a Typical Day Look Like?
| 8:30 AM | Arrive at school. Check emails, review lesson plans for the day. |
| 9:00 – 12:00 | Morning teaching blocks. Typically 3-4 classes with short breaks between. |
| 12:00 – 1:00 PM | Lunch break. School cafeteria provides Korean lunch (usually free or ₩3,000-4,000/month). |
| 1:00 – 3:00 PM | Afternoon teaching blocks. 2-3 additional classes. |
| 3:00 – 4:30 PM | Desk time. Prepare materials, grade assignments, plan upcoming lessons, or attend staff meetings. |
| 4:30 PM | School day ends. Free to leave unless there is a scheduled event. |
Core Teaching Responsibilities
Co-Teaching
You teach alongside a Korean English teacher (KET). The KET typically handles classroom management and Korean-language explanations while you lead pronunciation, conversation, and interactive activities.
Lesson Preparation
Prepare engaging English lesson materials, worksheets, and activities. Many schools provide a base curriculum (textbook), but teachers are expected to supplement with original content.
English Conversation
Lead conversation practice sessions, role-plays, and speaking activities. This is your primary value — giving students real interaction with a native English speaker.
English Camps
During summer and winter vacation periods, teachers may organize and run English camps (1-2 weeks). These are more casual, activity-based programs focused on games, songs, and cultural exchange.
School Events
Participate in school events such as English speech contests, cultural festivals, sports days, and parent observation classes. These are typically 2-3 times per semester.
Grading & Assessment
Assist with designing speaking tests and evaluating student performance. The Korean co-teacher handles written exams and report cards.
Class Details by School Level
Elementary School
Most common SMOE placement. Focus on songs, games, and basic conversation.
Middle School
More structured lessons. Students have basic English foundation. Focus on reading and speaking.
High School
Less common for SMOE. Advanced students preparing for university entrance exams.
Common Questions About Teaching Duties
Do I teach alone or with a Korean teacher?
You co-teach with a Korean English Teacher (KET). The exact dynamic varies by school — some KETs are very involved, while others prefer to let you lead the class independently. Most teachers find a comfortable balance within the first few weeks.
Can I be asked to teach more than 22 hours?
The standard maximum is 22 contact hours per week. If your school requests additional hours, overtime compensation must be provided. This is outlined in your EPIK contract. In practice, most schools stay within the 22-hour limit.
What happens during vacation periods?
During summer (late July-August) and winter (late December-January) breaks, you may be asked to run English camps, do desk-warming (being present at school without teaching), or take vacation days. The specific arrangement varies by school.