South Korea’s education authorities prepare to announce a final decision on adjusting small class sizes from 14 to 13 students per class amid declining student numbers. A citizen forum on April 18-19 draws 200 participants urging policy corrections through social collaboration.
Forum Highlights Principal’s Concerns
The principal of Wonminkyoung Seongpyeong Elementary School, speaking at the Osong Convention Center during the inaugural citizen forum, emphasized challenges in implementing the policy. “Efforts to refine the small class size policy face hurdles from staffing shortages, turning potential progress into a bitter struggle,” the principal stated. “Individuals experiencing the full impact of these connections firsthand grasp their gravity, yet indifference persists.”
Past Incidents Fuel Debate
Controversy traces back to September 2017, when a Busan dormitory incident involving 10 high school students during night shifts highlighted risks of smaller class linkages. Officials subsequently outlined plans to adjust these connections.
In 2022, the Ministry of Education formed a task force to assess real-world effects, releasing a comprehensive report on related issues. Although lawmakers introduced bills to the National Assembly, they stalled without advancement.
Recent Government Responses
Last December, the current administration, alongside the Ministry of Education and Labor Ministry, received demands to address small class size linkages. Authorities maintained the status quo initially.
Subsequently, a multi-agency collaboration formed in February, involving the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, and Employment and Labor Ministry. This group aims to integrate concrete insights from the forum.
Path to Resolution
The collaboration plans its fourth plenary session on April 30, where top authorities expect to deliver the ultimate verdict. Any final adjustments require National Assembly approval for binding implementation.
