"Education is the Future of the Nation"
Talk Concert Organized by Jeonnam Student Assembly Draws Attention
On June 13, 2025, the Jeonnam Office of Education held the "Jeonnam Office of Education Democratic Citizen Talk Concert" at the Suncheonman Ecological Culture Education Center, providing an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of democratic citizenship education.
This event was organized as part of democratic citizenship education and attracted significant attention, with over 400 participants including Superintendent Kim Daejung, students, parents, and local residents. Former Constitutional Court Justice Moon Hyungbae was invited as the keynote speaker and delivered a lecture titled "Thinking About Education from the Perspective of the Constitution," addressing the constitutional significance of education and the direction of democratic citizenship education.
Former Constitutional Court Justice Moon Hyungbae was invited to the "Jeonnam Office of Education Democratic Citizen Talk Concert" and gave a lecture on the constitutional significance of education and the direction of democratic citizenship education. Provided by Jeonnam Office of Education
Moon emphasized, "The inclusion of compulsory elementary education in the Constitution in 1948 was a decision that reflected the will of those who believed in the power of education even during difficult times," adding, "Education is a core element that determines the future of a society." He particularly stressed, "Democratic governments and authoritarian governments can be distinguished by their attitudes toward education. Education that demands loyalty is authoritarian, while education that fosters autonomy and fundamental rights aims for democracy. Education is the force that takes root in democracy."
Moon presented three core values that democratic citizenship education should pursue: 'Spirit,' 'Creativity,' and 'Communication.' Drawing on his own life experiences, he explained the importance of human rights sensitivity, creative thinking, and communication, resonating with the students.
The subsequent talk concert was organized by the Jeonnam Student Assembly, adding further significance. Students actively participated by asking in-depth questions on topics such as methods of communication and harmony toward democracy, and the limits of freedom and fundamental principles of democracy.
When a student asked about the direction of democratic citizenship education, Moon responded, "The essence of democratic citizenship education is to cultivate the ability to live together," emphasizing, "A democratic citizen is someone who enjoys rights and freedoms within the community, while also recognizing others and living fairly. Education that is overly focused on competition and entrance exams cannot teach coexistence."
He added, "True education is the process of learning how to live together, and debate and communication are the starting points." Moon also expressed strong support for the Jeonnam Office of Education's policy to strengthen constitutional education.
Superintendent Kim Daejung stated, "This talk concert with former Justice Moon Hyungbae was filled with excitement and inspiration, as members of the Jeonnam education community and citizens participated. In particular, it was especially meaningful as it was organized by the Jeonnam Student Assembly, making it a memorable venue for democratic citizenship education."
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