South Korea is experiencing record-high dropout rates at its universities of education for the second consecutive year. Fewer job openings, growing stress, and declining respect for teachers are driving young educators away. Many students now see teaching as part of the service industry, expected to tolerate unreasonable demands and frequent parental complaints. These pressures contribute to disillusionment and fuel the rising dropout trend across the country.
According to data from the Korean Educational Development Institute, dropout rates at South Korea’s universities of education reached 4.2 percent. This figure matches last year’s record high and reflects a steady increase since 2018. Until that year, dropout rates stayed below 1 percent annually. The surge in recent years shows how pressures on young teachers have intensified, even in leading institutions.
Seoul National University of Education and Gyeongin National University of Education reported the highest numbers, with over 100 students leaving each institution last year. Analysts point to worsening working conditions and changing values among younger generations as key reasons behind the trend. Teachers now face increasingly difficult classrooms while pay remains modest and authority protections are insufficient.
Emotional labor has grown with rising parental complaints, creating high stress for teachers. Surveys show only a small fraction of educators would choose teaching again if given the chance. This trend reflects concerns about professional respect and safety in classrooms. South Korea’s education sector faces growing challenges in retaining skilled young educators and ensuring their welfare.
Tragic incidents highlight the human cost of these pressures. A teacher at Seoul’s Seoi Elementary School reportedly took her life due to intense parental complaints. Another case on Jeju Island showed severe distress caused by repeated grievances. These events emphasize the urgent need for policy solutions to protect teachers and support their mental health.
Furthermore, the rise in dropout rates suggests broader implications for South Korea’s education system. Declining interest in teaching could affect future teacher supply and student outcomes. Lawmakers and education authorities are under pressure to implement reforms to improve working conditions, ensure professional respect, and provide better support systems.
Overall, South Korea’s universities of education are facing a crisis as dropout rates reach historic highs. Young educators face growing pressures, highlighting the need for urgent reforms. The trend underscores challenges in professional respect, working conditions, and student-teacher support.
