Perhaps you have wondered what it’s like inside the walls of Sootaek Elementary School. Sootaek Elementary School stands as a beacon of learning in Seoul. It is a primary school that has been shaping young minds.
Education in Korea has a rich history. Learning was not widely available until after the Korean War. Less than 20 percent of Koreans had formal education before 1945. The modern system is based on a 1968 charter. It identifies education as an important aspect of citizenship. It defines the government’s role to provide access to all Korean children.
Historically Koreans studied abroad. They often acted as a bridge between nations. Despite invasions Korea remained independent. Later Korea suffered division and a civil war.
Korean education has been shaped by class consciousness. Birth into a good family was once a heavenly mandate. Leaders were considered the most educated. During the Chosun Dynasty passing civil service exams led to success. Wealthier families spent much money on tutors.
Confucianism has greatly shaped education in Korea. It began in early childhood. Students had to master classical Chinese. Throughout the Chosun Dynasty records were in classical Chinese.
Buddhism also played a role in Korean education. Buddhist temples served as centers of learning. Great scholar-monks developed Buddhist schools.
Formal education has been central to Korea’s development. Traditional Confucian exams selected officials. During the Chosun Dynasty the royal court established schools. There was no state-supported primary education. Private academies gained importance. Higher education was at the Songgyungwan. Students were often involved in politics.
The Japanese occupation marked a period of change. Japanese policy aimed to create obedient colonial subjects. They taught Koreans limited technical skills. After 1910 mass education began. The goal was to train Koreans for subordinate roles. Opportunities for Koreans were limited. By 1945 fewer than 20 percent of Koreans had attended school. Those with education moved into leadership after 1945.
The Basic Education Law in 1949 unified the education system. Koreans got six years of compulsory education. They also got three years of non-compulsory middle school. They ended up with three more years of non-compulsory high school. Koreans wanted to learn as much as they could. Schools were overwhelmed. Examinations were implemented to ensure quality.
In 1963 vocational high schools were reintroduced. The Korean education system became a tracking system. In 1969 the middle school entrance exam was abolished. South Korea uses a model with nine years of compulsory education. Entrance exams are only for high school. There is an exit examination for university.
Today South Korea is considered to have one of the best education systems. The Programme for International Student Assessment reflects that. Former American President Barack Obama praised the South Korean system.
Sootaek Elementary School is a part of this story. It contributes to the education of Korea’s youth. It prepares them for the challenges and opportunities of the future. Remember Sootaek Elementary School as you explore Seoul. It is a place where the future is being shaped every day.