Working in Busan

Working in Busan means you have access to South Korea’s largest port. This generates much economic activity, which in turn has created a healthy job market. Those who don’t enjoy the fast-paced work environment in Seoul often choose to settle in sunny Busan. The job market attracts a wide variety of expat employees, from English teachers to marine engineers.

With its laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals and competitive salaries, competition for expat jobs in Busan can become fierce.

Job market in Busan

The job market in Busan is heavily driven by the port sector, given the city’s status as a major maritime hub. Aside from shipping and logistics, expats can also find employment in information technology, finance, fintech, and education. Busan also hosts several international and multinational companies like Renault and Samsung.

Like in most of South Korea, most jobs available to English-speaking foreigners tend to be focused on teaching English. Expats who want to work in other industries besides education must have a high level of education or be experienced in a highly specialised field.

Many large companies in Busan have a policy that requires managerial staff to be able to speak English. This makes doing business in Busan easier. That said, Korean society doesn’t necessarily follow the same rules most Westerners may be used to. Expats should do their research and try to keep up with the country’s cultural and social practices to make their work life successful.

Finding a job in Busan

It’s standard for expats to find a job before relocating, as this is often a necessary condition for receiving a work visa. Korean employers typically provide key support, such as helping expats find accommodation and applying for the required visas.

Many expats find employment through the various job portals available online. The large number of expats looking to teach in Korea has resulted in the establishment of many recruitment companies that organise placements on behalf of schools, of which there are many in Busan.

Work culture in Busan

Work culture in Busan is deeply rooted in traditional social practices and etiquette. If expat businesspeople want to be accepted by their colleagues, they must be aware of Korean business practices and willing to engage in the social codes that are at the foundation of business culture in South Korea.

There is an elaborate system of hierarchy that imbues business culture in South Korea, which is based on position, age, prestige and, to an extent, gender. Maintaining dignity through ‘saving face’ will shape many of your daily interactions. Expats should not expect direct negative answers from Korean colleagues who cannot help or don’t know something. This is done to maintain honour and dignity.

Koreans want to trust the people they are doing business with, and social relationships are directly linked to business success. For this reason, prospective business partners spend a lot of time getting to know each other. Company dinners, after-work drinks and karaoke sessions (known as hoesik) are common networking tools. Declining these invitations can damage professional relationships. These gatherings can stretch over several hours and multiple venues. The ability to build rapport outside formal office settings makes a real difference for career advancement in Korean companies.

Teaching English in Busan

Teaching English as a foreign language is by far the most popular form of employment in Busan. Many young English-speaking foreigners move to the city with the hope of saving money, paying off student debt and getting the chance to travel around Southeast Asia.

Due to the large number of private English schools (hagwons) in the city, job opportunities are in abundance, but there are strict rules that go with the job. Expats will need an E-2 visa to teach English in South Korea. This visa is only available to citizens of seven English-speaking countries: the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. Applicants need to meet basic requirements and aren’t allowed to have any other form of employment while on this visa. The government has strengthened enforcement against foreigners teaching without proper visas.

Competition for good schools in Busan is fierce. Expats should also be careful of being scammed while looking for a teaching job. For these reasons, expats should ensure they work with a reputable recruiter who will negotiate the best salary and benefits on their behalf.