Online Schooling from the 9th of Next Month... "December Suneung Seems Inevitable"

Fourth Suspension Ends, Sequential School Reopening by Grade
Prime Minister Jeong Urges "Thorough Preparation for Online Classes"

Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun is delivering an opening remark at the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters meeting on COVID-19 held at the Government Seoul Office on Sejong-daero, Seoul, on the morning of the 31st. Photo by Kang Jin-hyung aymsdream@

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunju Lee] The government has officially announced the fourth postponement of the opening of elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as the delay of the College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) schedule. Although the outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has somewhat subsided, this measure was taken out of concern that community infections could flare up again through student groups after schools reopen. The postponed school opening will begin in an online format rather than in-person attendance. Considering the preparation status for online classes at schools, a phased reopening by grade level will be implemented. How to manage the infringement of learning rights due to online classes and the confusion and dissatisfaction among parents and students regarding changes in the academic schedule has become a future challenge.

Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said in his opening remarks at the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters (CDSCH) meeting held at the Government Seoul Office on the morning of the 31st, "Considering the annual number of school days and the entrance exam schedule, it is not easy to postpone the school opening indefinitely, so we are seriously considering an online format for school opening as an alternative." He added, "Taking into account the preparation status and children's acceptance, it is reasonable to start phased school openings from April 9, mid-next week." Regarding the postponement of the CSAT, he stated, "The exam and entrance exam schedules will also be adjusted accordingly." This is the fourth time the government has postponed the opening of elementary, middle, and high schools. Originally scheduled for March 2, the opening was postponed to March 9, then to March 23, and then to April 6.

Following the meeting, which discussed the Ministry of Education's plans such as online school openings and CSAT postponement, the government will organize specific conclusions and announce them separately. The 2021 CSAT was scheduled for November 19 but is expected to be delayed by about one to two weeks, likely taking place in late November or early December.

Regarding criticisms that preparations for online classes are insufficient, Prime Minister Chung said, "At a minimum, all children must be guaranteed devices and internet access, and an adaptation period will likely be necessary," urging thorough preparation at schools during the remaining 10 days. Explaining the background of these decisions, he said, "Many people believe it is still difficult to send children to school, and there are concerns that infections could spread from schools to homes and communities. We have mobilized all quarantine capabilities to significantly reduce the risk of infection, but we have not yet reached a level where children can attend school with peace of mind. I regret this."