Gyeonggi High School echoes tales of Korea’s modern education. Right here, at 643 Yeongdong-daero in Gangnam District stands a pillar of history. Gyeonggi High School is not just any school. It is the oldest modern high school in Korea.
Established in 1899 by Emperor Gojong’s edict. The school opened its doors in 1900. Initially, it was Gwallib Middle School. This was part of Korea’s modernization. Japan’s annexation in 1910 threatened this progress. But Gyeonggi High School persevered. It transitioned to a high school in 1906. Middle school classes continued until 1971.
Gyeonggi High School is an all-boys school. Its sister school, Kyunggi Girls’ High School, is also in Gangnam District. Together, they represent a legacy of education.
The school’s influence permeates South Korean society. Gyeonggi High School is the “K” in the “K-S mark.” This mark is an informal reference to elite educational credentials. The “S” signifies Seoul National University. Before 1974, Gyeonggi High School held the top rank in the nation.
Its alumni associations thrive both in Korea and abroad. Politicians, government officials, scientists, business leaders and athletes proudly claim Gyeonggi as their alma mater.
Let’s turn back the clock to significant milestones. 1906 saw it renamed National Hansung High School. In 1910, it was annexed Hansung Foreign Language School. It was then renamed Kyungsung High School. 1911 brought a one-year teacher training course. The name changed to Kyungsung First Middle School. In 1938, it became National Kyunggi Middle School.
Lee Hun-gu became the first ethnic Korean principal after World War II began. This occurred in 1945. 1951 marked a division. Kyunggi Middle School and Gyeonggi High School were created.
The school’s motto is “liberal, culturally advanced, and peaceful people”. This was set in 1956. In 1974, the high-school entrance exams were abolished. This changed the student population.
In 1976, Gyeonggi High School moved to its current location. This is 74-4 Samsung-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul.
The South Korean government celebrated Gyeonggi High School’s centennial. They issued a commemorative stamp in 2000.
Noteworthy alumni include Choi Kyu-hah, former President. Lee Soo-young, a business leader, also walked these halls. Chung Un-chan, an economist, is another distinguished graduate. Even Bang Si-hyuk, the founder of HYBE Corporation, is an alumni.
As we stand here, remember Gyeonggi High School’s enduring legacy. It is a symbol of Korean education, leadership, and national pride.