"Encouraging Sexual Activity Among Elementary Students?" Controversy Over Explicit Expressions in Elementary Sex Education Book

On the 25th, Kim Byung-wook, a member of the Future United Party, pointed out that a children's sex education book contained explicit expressions. Photo by Kim Byung-wook's office

[Asia Economy Reporter Han Seung-gon, Intern Reporter Kim Yeon-ju] The Ministry of Gender Equality and Family has been criticized for distributing sex education books to some elementary schools that explicitly describe sexual intercourse.

On the 25th, Kim Byung-wook, a member of the Future United Party, mentioned the Ministry's "Nadawoom Children's Book Education and Culture Project" during a full meeting of the National Assembly's Education Committee.

The Nadawoom Children's Book Project focuses on educating children about "Nadawoom," which means breaking away from gender stereotypes and prejudices.

Referring to the book titled "How Are Babies Born," Representative Kim pointed out, "There are explicit expressions that raise concerns about early sexualization of elementary school children," adding, "Sexual intercourse itself is described as a 'fun thing,' 'exciting and cool,' and 'something you want to do if you feel like it.'

He explained, "The illustrations are quite explicit to the point of embarrassment," and "Such materials have been distributed to 10 elementary schools."

Photo by Kim Byung-wook, provided by the United Future Party lawmaker

Regarding the book titled "If Your Heart Keeps Pulling," he criticized the depiction of homosexuality as natural, highlighting the phrase and illustration saying, "Two men or two women, very similar people, can love each other."

In response to these criticisms, Kwon In-sook, the Democratic Party's spokesperson on the Gender Equality and Family Committee, stated, "These are well-reviewed books intended as supplementary materials for parents," and added, "They have also received awards and many recommendations in Western countries."

Representative Kwon argued, "There is an element aimed at fostering a sense of family diversity and non-discrimination (for children)," and said, "It cannot be evaluated in such a one-dimensional way."

Minister of Education Yoo Eun-hye said, "These books are not placed for students to see freely; they are managed separately by teachers or librarians," and added, "We will investigate the current status of the books' placement in more detail and promptly take necessary measures."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.