The Fearful Impact of Academic Pressure on South Korean Teachers

Tens of thousands of teachers in South Korea have been protesting for more protection from students and parents, following the suicide of a first-grade teacher in July. Teachers cite a 2014 child abuse law as a reason they feel unable to discipline students, fearing lawsuits from parents. The government has passed legal revisions to provide teachers with some protection and shift responsibility for handling complaints and lawsuits to principals. However, teachers argue that higher-level laws also need to be revised. Critics say South Korean society's emphasis on academic success places immense pressure on teachers and the education system.