Dress Codes

While there is no universal standard for Korean schools, it is generally a good idea to be at least business casual for the first four weeks of work. There are often a lot of official events that take place early in the semester. After a few weeks, reassess the situation and try to match the formality of your your co-workers' attire. The dress code in middle schools tends to be more formal than in elementary. 

Remember that the image you present is very important in Korea. Because of the language barrier, your verbal communication with your school community may be somewhat limited. Dressing appropriately is a great way to communicate non-verbally that you take your job seriously.

Shoes

It is not appropriate to wear your "outside shoes" inside the school building. When you arrive at school, you will need to remove your shoes and wear slides or slippers (슬리퍼). 

Crocs and similarly styled slip-on shoes are also acceptable. These shoes are readily available in Korea so there is no need to bring some over before you arrive. The exception would be if your shoe size is over 280mm (US Men's 11/ UK 10.5) as bigger sizes are difficult to find in Korea.

Specifics for Male Teachers

*Please note this is a general guide and real situations vary from school to school.

Ties
Ties are not at all necessary, but are welcome if you wish to wear them. 

Pants
Dress pants, khakis or dark pants, and jeans are all appropriate. Jeans should not be baggy or torn, unless frayed at the bottom. Sweatpants, shorts, and cargo pants are not appropriate attire at school unless special circumstances permit (i.e. sports day).

Shirts
Long and short sleeve button down dress shirts are best. Golf shirts/ polos are also acceptable. The appropriateness of T-shirts varies from school to school. Follow your co-workers or ask explicitly for clarification. Tank tops and cut off shirts are not appropriate.

Sweaters/Jackets
Sweaters and jackets are appropriate. They should be clean and well kept. 

Facial hair
Facial hair, if worn, should be well-groomed. 

Hats
Hats are not appropriate attire. They should be worn only when leaving and arriving at school.

Specifics for Female Teachers

*Please note this is a general guide and real situations vary from school to school.

Pants / skirts / dresses
Casual pants, jeans, dresses or skirts of varying lengths are appropriate. Note that it is common for Korean women to wear skirts that are shorter than would be accepted as workplace appropriate in other countries.

Shirts 
Tailored shirts or blouses are appropriate. Cotton, silk, and blends are appropriate. The appropriateness of sleeveless shirts varies from school to school. Follow your co-workers or ask explicitly for clarification. Tank tops and belly shirts are not appropriate attire. Cleavage should not be visible. 

Sweaters/ Jackets
Sweaters (including cardigans) and jackets are appropriate. They should be clean and well kept. 

Hats
Hats are not appropriate attire. They should be worn only when leaving and arriving at school.