Kim Yongtae Urges Investigation into Neulbom School Involvement
"Attempt at Political Indoctrination... Ministry of Education Must Be Held Accountable"
Kim Yongtae, head of the Education Committee of the People’s Solidarity for Participatory Democracy’s National Reconciliation Committee, has called for a thorough investigation into the involvement of the far-right educational group 'Libax School,' which is suspected of manipulating online comments during the 21st presidential election, in the elementary school Neulbom School program. Kim described this as an "attempt at political indoctrination" and strongly held the Ministry of Education accountable.
Jung Sungho and Park Seonwon, members of the Democratic Party of Korea and heads of the Internal Enemy Election Operation Prevention Team within the Central Election Countermeasures Committee, held a press conference on the 1st at the party headquarters in Yeouido, Seoul, urging the People Power Party to clarify their position regarding the conservative group 'Libax School,' which is suspected of manipulating online comments. Photo by Yonhap News
Kim emphasized, "Education should provide students with opportunities to develop critical thinking and encounter diverse perspectives. Imposing a specific political ideology undermines the very essence of education."
Previously, the Ministry of Education confirmed that Libax School, under the name 'Korea Neulbom Education Association,' provided science and arts programs to 10 elementary schools in Seoul through Seoul National University of Education. The programs included 'Exciting Experimental Science (Creative Science)' and 'Picture Books Experienced with the Five Senses (Culture and Arts).' After reviewing Libax School’s proposal, Seoul National University of Education signed a memorandum of understanding, and the programs were subsequently introduced at some schools.
However, investigative media outlet Newstapa reported on May 31 that Libax School allegedly issued private certificates to individuals involved in political comment manipulation and hired them as Neulbom School instructors. The training courses reportedly included far-right historical perspectives, and group chat rooms for instructors were used to issue instructions for online comment manipulation.
Kim stated, "It is a grave matter that a group which glorifies dictatorship and distorts democratization movements as riots has intervened in national education policy. The Ministry of Education cannot avoid criticism for condoning the activities of such an organization."
In response to the controversy, Seoul National University of Education immediately suspended the relevant programs and is considering terminating its agreement with Libax School. The Ministry of Education announced that it would conduct a comprehensive investigation into any connections between all Neulbom programs nationwide and Libax School, and would take immediate action if any issues are found.
Kim stressed, "Schools must be spaces where students can think freely and learn a variety of viewpoints. Education must not be swayed by political bias." He added, "Judicial authorities must thoroughly investigate this matter, and the next administration should establish institutional measures to guarantee the neutrality and fairness of education."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
