If you are new to the Sejong area and you live in Jochiwon you are likely wondering how you are going to survive without speaking Korean. Though the number of English speakers is growing as Sejong develops into a larger city, there are still many shops and restaurants where you are hard-pressed to find someone who speaks simple English. With this comes the realization that, everywhere you go, you need to know at least a little Korean to get by. We’re here to tell you what you need to know about finding a Korean tutor or class here in Jochiwon.

Finding a Korean tutor:

Having a one-on-one experience is the option most foreigners take in Jochiwon, and is usually the most effective. When working with a tutor you can choose what you want to learn, go at your own pace, and build a closer relationship with a kind and helpful Korean. If you don’t know where to start, they can direct you with textbooks and other resources. Usually tutoring takes place in a coffee shop or other public place for one hour sessions. There is one tutor (that we know of) currently available to take new students. Prices usually start at ₩30,000 per hour and can go up from there depending on the certification level of the tutor, their experience, availability, etc.

Yeongshim has tutored in Jochiwon in the past and is currently living in Cheongju; however, she is willing to commute to Jochiwon or Sejong for lessons. Her schedule of availability varies from day to day, but she is available most weekdays as well as on the weekends. Please call her for more specifics regarding her availability and pricing.

Contact Information:

Yeongshim: 010-9298-8459 or you can contact Steve (her husband) at 010-2844-8459.

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Taking a Korean Class:

The Sejong cultural center offers free Korean classes on Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m.-noon and from 2 p.m.-4 p.m. They also offer an English class on Sundays from 1-3 p.m. These classes follow a semester schedule, so it’s best to join near the beginning of a semester (around February or August). For more specific information you can visit the class or call the phone number below.

Directions: Starting from Ook-il walk towards the big road near the LG best shop. Cross the big road at the intersection like you are heading toward Domino’s, then turn left and follow the big road past Domino’s toward Hi-mart. Turn right at the second road you come to (the corner with Shabu Hyang and Hi-mart). Follow the road straight and you will run into the Cultural Center.

Phone: 044-868-2982

Address: 세종시 이주민 복지문화센터  세종특별자치시 조치원읍 새내16길 40/ Sejong Cultural Center, Sejong City Jochiwon-eup Saenae 16 gil 40

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Another option for finding a Korean class is to simply call the Office of Education and see if they know of any classes available. In the past, the Office of Education has been able to find University students who are looking to teach a group of eager learners in a classroom setting. There is no guarantee that there will be a class available, but it is worth a try. The rates and content may vary depending on the teacher and the Korean level of the students. In the past, this option was helpful because it allowed the foreigners who took the class to make more Korean friends, which is always helpful when improving your language study. Many foreigners and Koreans enjoy meeting one-on-one for language exchanges as a way to practice the language and enhance pronunciation skills.

Office of Education:

Phone: 044-320-1156

Hours: 9:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m.

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We are all about getting people connected with the information they need to survive in Sejong City. If you are a Korean tutor looking for students, or a student in need of lessons, and this article didn’t help you find what you need, please e-mail us at sejongdish@sejongdish.com and we will try to find the right information for you. If you want to find a language exchange partner, try posting in the Sejong Locals Facebook group. We hope this article was helpful and good luck in your study of Korean!