Prime Minister Jeong: "Sequential Online School Opening from April 9... Adjustment of Exam and Admission Schedules" (Comprehensive)

Prime Minister Jeong Sye-kyun

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwangho Lee] Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun stated on the 31st regarding the school reopening schedule amid the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), "To reduce confusion, considering the preparation status and children's acceptance, it is reasonable to start reopening schools sequentially from the middle of next week, April 9."

At the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters (CDSCH) meeting held at the Government Seoul Office on the same day, Prime Minister Chung said, "Considering the annual number of school days and entrance exam schedules, it is not easy to give up children's right to learn and postpone school reopening indefinitely, so we are strongly considering online school reopening as an alternative."

He added, "Thorough preparation is required," and "At a minimum, all children must be guaranteed devices and internet access, and an adaptation period will likely be necessary."

Prime Minister Chung also indicated that "exam and entrance exam schedules will be adjusted accordingly," suggesting that the College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) will also be postponed.

He mentioned, "Since last week, we have gathered opinions in various ways from local communities, the education sector, and parents," and "Many agree that it is still difficult to send children to school, and evaluations from quarantine experts are no different."

He pointed out, "In a situation where a considerable number of new cases occur daily, it is difficult to guarantee children's safety," and "There is also concern that infections could spread from schools to homes and communities."

Prime Minister Chung further stated, "Although we have mobilized all quarantine capabilities to significantly reduce infection risks, we have not reached a level where children can attend school with peace of mind," expressing regret on this point.

He continued, "I understand that the public has great interest not only in our children's studies and entrance exams but also in their safety," and "Based on the plan prepared by the Ministry of Education at today's meeting, we will discuss, reach a conclusion, and provide a detailed explanation."

Additionally, he said, "We will promptly complete the review of the timing and method to adjust the intensity of social distancing measures currently implemented in connection with school reopening."