The author’s experiences led her to the conclusion that
the principal factors responsible for Korea’s success in education
included equity in educational opportunity for all students
regardless of their socioeconomic background and extremely
active parental involvement. There is high academic
rigor in Korean teacher-training programs followed by continuous
teacher support and professional development and a research-based
pedagogy that utilizes the best teaching practices.
However, the intensity of the education including after-school
programs referred to as “hagwons” has pitfalls as it leaves little
time for personal life outside of school for students or teachers.