Korean vs. English Resumes: What’s the Difference?
A Practical Comparison for International Job Seekers in Korea
Introduction
If you’re an international student applying for jobs in Korea, you’re likely asking:
“Should I submit a Korean resume or an English one?”
“What’s the difference between the two formats?”
“Do Korean employers prefer 국문 이력서?”
This guide explains the key differences between English-style resumes and Korean-style resumes, and when to use each.
Summary Table: At a Glance
| Feature | Korean Resume (국문 이력서) | English Resume (CV/Resume) |
|---|---|---|
| Language | Korean (or bilingual) | English |
| Format | Template-based, standardized | Flexible, customized |
| Personal Details | Photo, age, address, marital status included | Typically excluded (for privacy) |
| Length | 1–2 pages for resume + 1 page 자기소개서 | 1–2 pages total, including summary |
| Tone | Formal, factual | Concise, achievement-driven |
| Cover Letter | 자기소개서 (structured) | Optional free-form cover letter |
| Focus | Academics, consistency, humility | Accomplishments, leadership, individuality |
Korean Resume: Structured & Formal
The 국문 이력서 follows a set format, often downloaded from portals like JobKorea or Saramin. You’re expected to fill in:
- Full name (in Korean)
- Date of birth / Age
- Contact details and Korean address
- Passport-style photo
- Education, work history (reverse order)
- Certifications & language scores
- Military service status (if applicable)
- Self-Introduction Letter (자기소개서)
Used for: Korean companies, government agencies, and domestic startups hiring through local platforms.
English Resume: Flexible & Targeted
An English resume (or CV) is more flexible in layout. You can highlight your strengths, projects, achievements, and customize it for the company or role.
Key features include:
- One-page summary or two-page CV
- No photo or personal info
- Bullet-point achievements
- Optional summary/objective statement
- Cover letter attached separately
Used for: Global companies, multinational teams in Korea, or English-speaking roles.
When to Use Which Resume
| Situation | Resume Format to Use |
|---|---|
| Korean company hiring through JobKorea/Saramin | 국문 이력서 + 자기소개서 |
| Startup hiring foreigners | 국문 이력서 (bilingual if possible) |
| Global/international company | English Resume + Cover Letter |
| Tech role with no language requirement | Either—English often accepted |
| Applying through referral or email | Tailored English resume is fine |
Tip: If in doubt, submit both versions.
Key Cultural Differences to Note
| Area | Korean Style | English Style |
|---|---|---|
| Tone | Modest, humble (“I will learn diligently”) | Confident, active (“Led a 5-person team…”) |
| Achievements | Downplayed or collective (“team success”) | Highlighted (“Increased sales by 25%…”) |
| Self-description | 4-section 자기소개서 | 1-paragraph summary or cover letter |
| Visual Design | Conservative, black-and-white | Optional use of design elements |
What If You’re Applying in English to a Korean Company?
Still include a Korean translation or summary at the top, and mention:
- Your TOPIK score or Korean level
- Korean phone number/address
- Clear job title matching the Korean JD
This shows cultural awareness and makes HR’s job easier.
Final Thoughts
Mastering both resume styles gives you the flexibility to apply anywhere in Korea—whether it’s a local company, a global brand, or a startup.
Korean resumes show you respect the local system.
Next Post:
“How to Write a Tourism-Specific Resume in Korean (호텔/관광 자기소개서 팁)”
Would you like dual-format resume templates (국문 & 영문)? Leave a comment or message us!