Education has long been central to South Korean society. It shapes people's lives and the nation's cultural and economic landscape. South Korea is known for its intense education system. The competition for university spots is fierce. Hagwon (Private academies) play a vital role in students' academic performance. To understand how this system developed, we must explore the history that gave rise to it.
Education During the Joseon Dynasty
During the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910), Confucianism replaced Buddhism as the dominant philosophy. Education wasn’t just about gaining knowledge. They saw it as a way to develop personal virtue, social responsibility, and loyalty to the state. Confucian thought deeply roots all these ideals.
For the yangban (nobility), education was a privilege. The curriculum focused on the humanities. With Confucian texts, history, and ethics as the main subjects. The ultimate goal was to pass the gwageo (civil service exams). A government position helped them rise in social status. Vocational training was rare. The focus was on developing scholars and officials rather than skilled workers or laborers.
The system served only the elite. But it set the tone for many values that influence Korean education today. The focus on academic achievement and the belief that education is a pathway to success.
Private Education During Japanese Occupation
Fast-forward to the Japanese occupation of Korea (1910-1945). Education became a tool of Japan’s imperial goals. Japan designed its policies to assimilate Koreans into the empire. They taught the Japanese language and promoted loyalty to the emperor. And prepared Koreans for subservient roles in society.
Japan implemented a two-tier education system:
- Elementary education taught basic subjects while promoting Japanese values.
- Higher education remained limited. Only a few Koreans advanced beyond elementary school.
Limited access to higher education and Korea's competitive society led to the rise of private education. Wealthy families turned to private education to give their children an advantage. In the hope that they were one of the few advancing to higher education.
Post-Liberation and the Rise of the Hagwon System
After Korea's liberation, the country faced the challenge of reforming education. Especially following the devastation of the Korean War. The government aimed to make education accessible to everyone. But as Korea’s economy grew, so did the competition for university admission. Public schooling alone wasn’t enough to guarantee success. To pass Suneung (college entrance exam), families turned to private tutoring.
By the 1970s, these private tutoring centers evolved into formalized Hagwon. Providing specialized instruction in subjects crucial for university admissions. Such as math, science, and English. Government tried to regulate the system. By limiting fees and opening hours. Despite that, Hagwon became a staple in Korean education. Offering an essential service to families striving for academic success.
Role & Impact of Modern Hagwon
Until today, Hagwon are at the core of Korea’s education system. Providing everything from subject-specific tutoring to test prep. Many offer online courses, making them even more accessible.
But there’s a darker side to the Hagwon system. It perpetuates a vicious cycle of disparity. Students with better pre-education are more likely to succeed. Leading to better careers. Wealthier families can afford the best Hagwon. Giving their children a clear advantage over those who can’t afford them. This divide creates a growing gap in educational and career opportunities.
People work hard to afford expensive Hagwon. Children stay long hours because their parents are at work. From my Dutch perspective, working less and spending more time with your kids could reduce the need for costly Hagwon. There’s only so much information people can absorb in a day. You could enjoy quality time while they're young and teach them valuable lessons they won't learn in school.
