English Program in Korea

Founded	1995
Type	Teaching English as a foreign language
Location	South Korea
Website	http://www.epik.go.kr

English Program in Korea (EPIK) is a program to improve the English speaking abilities of students and teachers in South Korea, to foster cultural exchanges, and to reform English teaching methodologies in South Korea. It is affiliated with the Korean Ministry of Education and is operated by the National Institute for International Education. Established in 1995, EPIK encourages cross cultural exchange while promoting the development of English language competence for Korean students.^[1]

The EPIK Program recruits native English speakers from various countries to work as English teachers in Korean elementary, middle, and high schools. EPIK teachers help students improve their English language skills and provide cultural exchange by immersing them in an English-speaking environment. The program offers year-long contracts, typically starting in February or August, and provides benefits such as housing, competitive salaries, and orientation/training upon arrival.^[2]

History

Formally created in 1995 under the name KORETTA, EPIK places native-speaker English teachers in Korean classrooms. Currently, participants live and teach in 16 different Provinces and Metropolitan cities.

Organization

EPIK is overseen by the National Institute for International Education, a division of the South Korean Ministry of Education, Science and Technology. EPIK provides recruitment and Guest English Teacher support from a central office in Seoul. In conjunction with NIIED, Provincial Offices of Education offer assistance with various daily and work related affairs to Guest English Teachers. Participants can seek guidance from representatives at their Provincial Office of Education and from EPIK.