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Parents Push Kids to Top Schools Amid Academic Pressure

2/4/2026

48 5 Full Breakdown

Left

Parent Prioritizes Education

Lee Kyong Min, a South Korean parent, prioritizes enrolling her daughters in top hagwons to secure academic success.
The routine involves long hours waiting in cafes as her children juggle homework and classes.
Since the 1990s, the rise of extracurricular education has sparked debates about the impact of intense academic competition.
Lee's daughter questions the necessity of such a demanding schedule.

Right

Bae Challenges Tutoring

The South Korean education system faces growing scrutiny from tutoring pressures and AI displacement.
Ms. Bae Hyun-jin, an activist against private education, spends heavily on tutoring.
The human rights commission raises concerns about preschool testing and child mental health.
As anxiety rises, parents like Ms. Lee consider futures abroad for schooling.
The belief in academic pedigree remains strong despite fears of AI disruption.

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Parent Prioritizes Education

Lee Kyong Min, a South Korean parent, prioritizes enrolling her daughters in top hagwons to secure academic success.
The routine involves long hours waiting in cafes as her children juggle homework and classes.
Since the 1990s, the rise of extracurricular education has sparked debates about the impact of intense academic competition.
Lee's daughter questions the necessity of such a demanding schedule.

1 / 2