Third Grader's Guardian Who Slapped Vice Principal Reported for Child Abuse

If Neglect Is Recognized, Student Treatment Possible Without Consent

The guardian of an elementary school student, A, who assaulted the vice principal and used abusive language to prevent unauthorized early dismissal, has been reported to the police.

On the 3rd, A, a third-grade student at an elementary school in Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do, verbally abused the vice principal, slapped him several times, spat on him, and bit his forearm, causing a disturbance.

According to a report by 'Yonhap News,' on the 5th, the Jeonju Education Support Office of the Jeollabuk-do Office of Education filed a police report against A's guardian on charges of 'child abuse due to educational neglect.' The provincial education office explained that if an actual child abuse ruling is made, treatment for A can proceed without the guardian's consent.

[Image source=Jeonbuk Teachers' Union]

The guardian is said to have ignored the school's requests for treatment for A. The provincial education office persuaded the guardian to support A's counseling and psychological treatment, and assigned two teachers or child experts to provide separate support for A's classes or learning. They also plan to assist with psychological treatment for the affected teacher and promote psychological counseling for the students in A's class.

Earlier that day, a video showing A causing a disturbance against the vice principal of the elementary school was released, sparking controversy. In the video, the vice principal is seen standing with his hands behind his back, unable to respond while A assaults him.

According to the Jeonbuk Teachers' Union, which released the video, A attempted to leave school immediately upon arrival on the 3rd. When the vice principal tried to stop him, A verbally abused him and slapped him.

It is reported that A's guardian frequently threatened to report the school for child abuse. Additionally, A often disrupted the homeroom teacher's classes and resorted to abusive language or violence when restrained.

At that time, A ultimately left the school without permission, and although the guardian later came to the school, instead of apologizing, they reportedly assaulted the homeroom teacher. Jeong Jae-seok, chairman of the Jeonbuk Teachers' Union, emphasized, "Urgent measures are needed for the child (A). Despite multiple requests for family guidance from the school, the child has not changed. This situation can be seen as child neglect, and local governments must actively intervene."