Written by Sneh Lahurikar
Edited by Ananya Athaiya
Illustrated by Khushi Gangoria
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The South Korean education system is a well-structured system that covers various fields of study. Six years of primary school, three years of middle school and three years of high school form the timeline of Korea’s schooling experience. Notably, more than 70% of students choose to pursue higher education, indicating a strong emphasis on intellectual development and scholarly achievement.
A unique feature of the South Korean educational landscape is the speciality of secondary schools that cater to a wide range of interests and capabilities. From institutions focused on international studies to institutions for the acquisition of foreign languages or scientific knowledge appropriate for specific career paths, Korea has them all.
At the centre of the Korean education system is the practice of standardised testing, epitomised by the Korean SAT or 수능 (Su-Neung). Acting as the indicator of academic competence, this test impacts university admissions, shaping the students’ educational journey. By incorporating a dual approach to admissions that includes regular and ongoing admissions, the program places greater emphasis on 수능 scores, thus fostering a culture of rigorous preparation and learning rigidity from childhood.
Extracurricular activities are integral to the Korean educational experience, providing students with opportunities for personal growth, skill development and social networking. From career-related groups aligned with future aspirations to leisure programs such as drama and dance- students are encouraged to explore interests beyond academic boundaries. University life furthers this trend of exploration and engagement, with many groups covering a wide range of interests- from archery to performance management.
In response to criticism of the rigid and test-based nature of traditional education, new schools like Gandhi Schools have emerged as beacons of innovation and change. These organisations eschew the pressures of standardised testing in favour of unconventional approaches to learning, prioritising individuality and autonomy. By creating an environment for self-discovery and genuine growth, these alternative schools give pause to students who want to shape their educational path on their own terms.
A tapestry of languages, cultures and educational models is emerging as it shifts towards India. Unlike South Korea’s structured system, India’s educational scenario is characterised by a highly decentralised approach, which varies across states and boards of education. Educational options range from central to state boards reflecting India’s rich fabric of linguistic and cultural heritage.
India also sees a larger proportion of students pursuing higher education, with a strong emphasis on undergraduate studies. However, the competition is fiercely competitive in admissions to premier institutes like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) through tests like the Joint Entrance Test (JEE) and medical colleges through the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). The high risk of these tests highlights the pressure Indian students face and the crucial role standardised testing plays in shaping their educational trajectories.
Despite rigorous preparation and academic achievement, Indian graduates often face challenges in employment, with issues of employability and inadequate skills. This gap in educational attainment and industry requirements highlights the need for reforms in the Indian education system to bridge the gap between education and industry.
In conclusion, South Korea and India portray distinct educational landscapes shaped by unique cultural, historical and social factors. However, they share similarities in academic competence, commitment to STEM education, and recognition of the importance of extracurricular involvement. Through exploring these systems, we gain a deeper understanding of the different educational approaches available in our global community.
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