Teachers Basic Dress Code & Classroom Manners Guide (한국 직장의 복장과 예절)
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Korean Teacher’s Style & Hygiene Guide
Behaviours that are generally NOT accepted in most Korean schools:
- Using your mobile phone continuously during class
- Playing videos for children and focusing on your phone instead of teaching
- Arriving late by 5–10 minutes on a regular basis
- Raising your voice at children because you feel stressed or tired
- Leaving students unattended in the classroom
- Ignoring basic safety and supervision duties
These behaviours are generally viewed as inappropriate in Korean school culture
and may lead to warnings if repeated.
1. First Impressions Count
In Korea, appearance and cleanliness are highly valued, especially for teachers.
Even in schools that allow casual clothes, your outfit should reflect professionalism.
Clean shirts, neat trousers, or tidy skirts and knitwear show respect.
Some schools allow shorts or sleeveless tops in summer, but modesty is always the safest choice.
Avoid tight or revealing clothes, short shorts, or low-cut tops.
2. Understanding Korean Cultural Norms
Teaching in Korea means adapting to local expectations.
Modest, tidy clothing and polite posture are seen as professional.
Tattoos and piercings are personal choices, but many schools — especially kindergartens — prefer them covered.
Long nails, large earrings, or facial piercings can sometimes make children uncomfortable
or lead to small accidents during class.
Important: If you have large tattoos, please keep them covered during class,
especially in kindergartens.
3. Hygiene & Cleanliness
Korean classrooms are humid in summer and warm in winter.
- Shower daily and keep clothes clean
- Repeated outfits are fine if freshly washed
- Deodorant is strongly recommended in summer
- Keep nails short to avoid hurting children
Cleanliness shows care, not luxury.
4. The Golden Rule: Professionalism
Professionalism in Korea means balancing individuality with cultural awareness.
As a teacher, you represent respect and reliability.
Dress neatly, stay clean, and understand local norms.
If unsure, ask BRIDGE Agency before your first day.