Introduction
Schooling has changed drastically over the years, with an increasing number of people opting to take an online route or even homeschool their children. Homeschooling has become increasingly popular around the world, and many parents are curious and wondering if homeschooling is a viable option in Korea.
In this article, we’re going to explore the idea of homeschooling in Korea, and provide a comprehensive guide to help readers answer the question on if there is homeschool in Korea and if so, are there any good options available.
What is Homeschooling?
Homeschooling is when a student is educated at home instead of in a school. It is primarily the parents or tutors who oversee the student’s educational progression and provide the necessary materials.
Homeschooling allows for a student to receive a tailored education that best suits their needs and interests.
What are the Advantages of Homeschooling?
Homeschooling can provide a number of advantages to the student and the family. Firstly, it allows the parents to play an active role in their child’s education, and adapt it to suit their needs.
This can help the student focus on areas that particularly interest them, as well as providing the flexibility to fit it around other commitments such as sports or other activities. Homeschooling also allows parents to foster an independent learning style and a sense of responsibility in their children, as well as providing a safe environment where bullies or other undesirable objects are unlikely to be present.
Is Homeschooling Legal in Korea?
Currently, homeschooling is not legal in the traditional sense in Korea. Korean law requires children aged 6 to 16 to attend school, and those found to be in breach of this are liable to face a fine of up to 2 million won.
Despite this, there has been a recent upsurge in parents homeschooling their children, officially known as ‘Hagwon Education’. Hagwon education is different to traditional homeschooling, as it is conducted in teaching facilities rather than at home. The main reason this is legal is because the children attending the Hagwon are still considered to be attending school, albeit in a different setting.
What are the Requirements for Hagwon Education in Korea?
In order for a child to legally homeschool in Korea through Hagwon education, the parent must fill out an application form which is then submitted to the Ministry of Education. This must include a copy of the student’s birth certificate and a record from their previous school.
The application also requires a statement of purpose from the student’s parents, outlining why they want to homeschool their child. Once approved, the student is then allowed to take part in Hagwon Education, provided that they meet certain conditions. This includes regular attendance of classes, completion of the necessary academic credits and a certain number of hours of study per day.
Who can Provide Hagwon Education in Korea?
Hagwon Education is usually provided by private companies and institutions rather than public schools. This allows parents the freedom to choose which type of Hagwon Education they would prefer, as well as providing more scope for bespoke learning requirements.
The price of Hagwon Education may be more expensive than public schools, although it can often be viewed as an investment in the student’s future.
What are the Academic Standards for Hagwon Education?
Hagwon Education is generally of a higher academic standard than public schools. Private institutes are often more stringent with the marking of coursework, and place a greater emphasis on final exams.
As such, students undergoing Hagwon Education are often more prepared for college and career opportunities.
What are the Disadvantages of Hagwon Education?
One of the main drawbacks of Hagwon Education is the cost. With private institutes, parents often have to pay for the classes as well as any extra materials and textbooks which may be needed.
Additionally, there is often very little in the way of social interaction with other peers, which can have an effect on the student’s sense of self-worth and personal development.
What Academic Support is Available?
While Hagwon Education may be perceived as more expensive than public schooling, parents can rest assured that their child will receive the necessary academic support. Private institutes have staff available to assist the student with their studies, as well as providing guidance to aid their progression.
Hagwon Education may also incorporate additional subjects, such as music and art, which may not be offered in public schools.
How to Find a Good Hagwon Education Program
It’s important to find a good private institute for Hagwon Education that can meet the student’s needs. This can be done through word-of-mouth recommendations from those who have previously used Hagwon Education, or researching online to find reputable companies and institutions.
When researching online, make sure to read through the online reviews and take note of any red flags that may point towards a less than satisfactory service.
Conclusion
Homeschooling can be a viable option in Korea, albeit in a slightly different form. Through Hagwon Education, students can receive a tailored education to suit their individual needs and interests. While there may be an initial cost, many parents view it as an investment in their child’s future and as a way of providing an excellent education for their child.
With the right research and exploration, parents can make an informed decision on whether or not Hagwon Education is the best course of action for their child.