Written by: Elif Eylül PUL and Yeliz Zeynep TURAN
Private, for-profit supplementary education institutions in South Korea. These institutions play a significant role in the education system and are often attended by students after their regular school hours.
College Scholastic Ability Test in South Korea. It is a crucial standardized test taken by high school students, typically in their third year, as part of the college admissions process. The exam is administered annually, usually in November.
Confucian Values: Confucianism has historically influenced South Korean society, emphasizing respect for authority, loyalty, and a strong work ethic. These values often manifest in the education system, where students are expected to show deference to teachers and parents.
Pressure and Competition: The cultural value of competition and striving for excellence is reflected in the intense pressure on students to perform well academically. High-stakes exams, such as the College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT), contribute to a highly competitive environment.
Collectivism: South Korea places a strong emphasis on collectivism and societal harmony. This is reflected in the cooperative learning environment and group activities commonly found in classrooms.
Tiger Parenting: The concept of "tiger parenting," characterized by high parental expectations and involvement in their children's education, is prevalent. Parents often invest significant resources in private tutoring and extracurricular activities to ensure their children's success.
South Korea has a highly competitive education system, and students often find themselves in direct competition with their peers for limited spots in prestigious universities and programs.
Attending a prestigious university is often seen as essential for future success. As a result, students feel immense pressure to excel academically and gain admission to top-tier institutions.
The focus on standardized testing and rote memorization can limit opportunities for creative expression and critical thinking. The education system's structure does not encourage students to explore diverse interests.
Teaching English in South Korea
To teach English in Korea, you'll require a bachelor's degree and a TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA qualification. South Korean schools have high standards for the teachers they employ. So, unlike some countries, you will need to provide evidence of your qualifications. In addition, Korean schools often require citizenship from a native-speaking English nation, such as the U.S., U.K., Canada, Ireland, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.
Teachers who work in public schools—typically through teaching placements in South Korea like the EPIK program—can earn anywhere between 1.5 to 3 million won monthly (between $1150 to $2650.)
English teachers can earn between 1.9 to 2.4 million won (between $1,600 to $2,000). Private schools often provide housing and flight reimbursements too. As a result, you can save plenty of cash.
Teachers with prior experience can earn closer to 2.4 million won ($1950.)
University teaching roles are highly sought after in South Korea. Therefore, there’s plenty of competition. University teaching roles offer salaries between 2.3 to 5 million won ($2050 to $4400.)
Collectivism and Harmony: Like South Korea, Japan values collectivism and societal harmony. This is reflected in the importance placed on group activities, cooperation, and maintaining a sense of unity within the classroom.
Respect for Authority: The Japanese education system is built on a foundation of respect for authority figures, including teachers. Students are taught to show deference to their educators and adhere to a strict code of conduct.
Cultural Festivals: Japan's education system incorporates cultural festivals and events, such as sports festivals and arts performances. These activities foster a sense of community and pride among students and their families.
Emphasis on Moral Education: Moral education, including the instillation of values like respect, responsibility, and empathy, is an integral part of the Japanese curriculum. The goal is to nurture well-rounded individuals.
Lifetime Employment Tradition: The cultural concept of "shushin koyo" or lifetime employment has influenced the education system by placing importance on preparing students for stable, long-term careers.
Japan's education system consists of three stages: elementary, junior high, senior high. Compulsory education is nine years.
Japan's university exams are criticized for being heavily relied on rote memorisation. Government plans to change the exam.
Student- teacher ratios are higher than OECD average. Working conditions are poor. Teachers must renew their licenses in ever 10 years.
These exams of South Korea, Japan and Turkiye relies on rote memorization.
Compulsory education in Japan and South Korea is limited to 9 years. These years only cover elementary and middle school. In Turkiye, with the 4+4+4 system, students are required to graduate from high school.