Student opposition intensified at Dongduk Women’s University this week after an on-campus vote showed a clear rejection of the school’s plan to transition to coeducation. The student opposition sentiment dominated the unofficial referendum, which concluded Monday.
The student council organized the vote shortly after the university announced plans to admit male students beginning in 2029. Out of 3,470 participating students, 85.7 percent voiced disagreement with the transition. Only 280 students expressed support, while 147 abstained and 68 ballots were deemed invalid. Turnout reached 50.4 percent, marking a rare mobilization on campus.
The university’s announcement followed recommendations from its internal Coeducation Discussion Committee. However, student leaders argued that the committee conducted an unrepresentative consultation process. They said the sample size and selection method did not reflect the broader student body, reinforcing student opposition.
According to student representatives, the committee surveyed only 48 individuals from four groups: students, faculty, staff and alumni. In that survey, 75.8 percent supported the transition. Student council members argued that grouping students and staff equally failed to acknowledge the disproportionate impact on the enrolled population.
University leadership rejected claims that it disregarded student voices. Administrators stated that the committee followed governing regulations under the Higher Education Act, which prohibits any single group from holding a majority in major university decision-making bodies.
The debate began in late 2024, when the institution formally began reviewing the transition. Since then, protests have continued across the campus. Students displayed banners, painted messages on outdoor surfaces and held organized discussions opposing the transition.
Many students said women-only institutions remain necessary due to gender gaps in leadership, employment and academic environments. Some also argued that specialized coursework and classroom settings encourage confidence among women entering historically male-dominated fields.
Dongduk Women’s University is one of 14 women-only higher education institutions remaining in South Korea. If the transition moves forward, the number of four-year women’s universities would fall to six nationwide.
The administration has not yet confirmed whether the student vote will influence final decisions. However, student leaders said they plan to continue organizing demonstrations and public campaigns as student opposition remains strong.
