Jeonnam Teachers' Union: "Jeju Teacher's Death... A Tragedy of Collapsed Teachers' Rights"

A Tragic Death Amid Complaints and Pressure
"Urgent Need to Establish an Institutional Safety Net"

The Jeonnam Branch of the Korean Teachers and Education Workers Union expressed deep condolences and called for institutional reforms regarding the recent death of a teacher at Jeju A Middle School, stating, "This death is not a matter of individual suffering, but a tragedy caused by the collapse of teachers' rights."

Jeonnam Branch of the Korean Teachers and Education Workers Union

On May 23, the Jeonnam Branch of the union released a statement, saying, "We have received the heartbreaking news that a teacher at Jeju A Middle School has ended their life," and added, "We offer our condolences to the deceased, and extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved family, fellow teachers, and students."

The statement continued, "Despite facing complaints and pressure during their lifetime, the deceased continued their educational activities. Ultimately, the burden destroyed a person's life. This death cannot be dismissed merely as an individual misfortune."

The Jeonnam Branch emphasized, "The reality in which teachers, tormented by complaints and conflicts, ultimately give up their lives is being repeated. This goes beyond a simple tragedy and serves as a warning that calls into question the very foundation of our education system."

They also pointed out, "It is urgent to establish an institutional safety net that protects and respects teachers so they can focus on education. Schools must be places where teachers can stand fully by their students. There should no longer be teachers who are swayed by complaints, isolated, and ultimately broken."

They added, "We will not let the death of the deceased be in vain. We will continue to fight to create educational environments where teachers' rights are respected and the dignity of teachers is protected."