South Korea Job Interview Guide for Expats (2025)

The Korean Job Interview Playbook (for Expats & Newcomers)

A practical, no-nonsense guide you can actually use—scripts, checklists, and tables included.

1) What “good” looks like in Korea (quick overview)

• Professional + modest. Show skill and humility. Don’t oversell; give credit to teams.

• Formality matters. Be on time (10–15 min early), greet with a slight bow, wait for them to initiate a handshake.

• Structured answers. Clear, concise, example-driven (STAR is fine), calm tone.

• Cultural fit. Respect for hierarchy, teamwork, willingness to learn Korean basics.

2) In-person vs. online: the checklist

4) Scripts you can use (KR/EN)

4.1 20-second Korean greeting (polite, safe for any panel)

“안녕하세요. **[이름]**입니다. **[국가]**에서 왔고, **[전공/직무]**을(를) 중심으로 [n년] 동안 경험을 쌓았습니다. 오늘 기회를 주셔서 감사합니다.”

4.2 60-second English self-intro (role-aligned)

“Thanks for having me. I’m a [role] with [n years] in [domain]. In my last project at [company], I [did X] which led to [quantified result]. I’m drawn to [this company] because [mission/product tie-in], and I believe I can help with [specific priority for this role] from day one.”

4.3 When asked about Korean ability (be honest, show intent)

“I’m at [level]. I can handle [basic tasks] and I’m taking [class/app]. I prepare Korean versions of key materials when possible, and I’m committed to improving quickly.”

5) Answering common questions (with low-risk frameworks)

6) Etiquette & non-verbal cheat sheet

7) What to ask them (safe, smart questions)

• Role clarity: “What would success in the first 90 days look like?”

• Team & rhythm: “How does this team collaborate across functions?”

• Current priorities: “What challenges are most urgent for this role to solve?”

• Growth: “How do you support skill development for this position?”

8) Teaching, tech, and corporate—how prep differs

9) Salary & benefits—how to handle gracefully

• Timing: Discuss specifics after you receive an offer.

• Package view: Consider base + bonus + allowances (housing/transport) + leave + severance eligibility (varies by employment terms; often paid after a full year of continuous service).

• Polite counter: “Thank you for the offer—I’m excited. Is there flexibility around ₩X–Y given [years/skills/result]? Open to discussing structure.”

• If no wiggle room: Ask about review at 6–12 months, training budget, or scope adjustment.

10) Handling personal questions—answer, pivot, stay calm

“I’m fully focused on contributing in this role. My personal situation won’t affect my performance or availability.”

11) Documents & interview-day pack

12) Dress code (keep it simple)

• Suits win (navy/charcoal/black). Tie optional but safe for round one.

• Neat grooming; minimal accessories; clean, closed-toe shoes.

• Keep bags tidy; remove bulky outerwear before entering the room.

13) Follow-up (templates)

Subject: Thank you — [Role], [Your Name]

Dear [Name/Team],

Thank you for the opportunity to discuss the [Role] today. I enjoyed learning about [team/project] and I’m excited about contributing to [specific goal]. Please let me know if I can provide anything further.

감사합니다.

Best regards,

[Your Name] · [Phone] · [LinkedIn/Portfolio]

Hello [Name],

I hope you’re well. I’m following up regarding the [Role] interview on [date]. I remain very interested and would appreciate any update on next steps.

Thank you,

[Your Name]

14) Red flags worth noticing

• Vague duties, no written contract, or “cash only” salaries.

• Unpaid trials without clear scope/length.

• Disrespectful comments about previous employees or candidates.

• Pressure to start before visa/work authorization is arranged (for non-citizens).

15) One-page crammer (print this)

Arrival: 10–15 min early • Bow; wait for handshake • Calm tone • Soft eye contact

Open: 20s KR greeting • 60s EN story (role-aligned)

Answers: STAR • modest + numeric outcomes • credit the team

Ask: role success, team rhythm, priorities, growth

Close: Summarize fit in one sentence • Thank + slight bow • Send thank-you same day

Final note

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