Memorial Space for Jeju Teacher Set Up at Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education Until the 30th

Jung Geunsik Vows to Reflect on the Realities Facing Schools

The Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education has set up a memorial space to honor a middle school teacher from Jeju who recently passed away after suffering from persistent complaints.

At 8:30 a.m. on the 26th, the Office established the memorial space in front of the records room on the first floor of the main office and held a memorial ceremony. Attendees included Superintendent Jung Geunsik, the Deputy Superintendent, directors of departments and bureaus, the Seoul Teachers' Union, the Korean Federation of Teachers' Associations, and the Korean Teachers and Education Workers Union. The Office plans to keep the memorial space open until 5:00 p.m. on the 30th.

Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education held a memorial ceremony and set up a space to commemorate the deceased Jeju teacher on the first floor of the main office on the 26th. Photo by Kim Youngwon

With a solemn expression after laying flowers, Superintendent Jung stated, "We are painfully reminded that we have not yet put an end to the injustice where the most passionate teachers are the first to be hurt, and the tragedy of losing teachers who are truly devoted to their students too soon. As Superintendent, I will take time to deeply reflect on the current realities facing our schools."

He also addressed parents and students, emphasizing, "Teachers' authority and students' rights are interdependent. When teachers' authority collapses, students' rights also fall with it. Respect for teachers is the foundation for building a happy school community for everyone."

Superintendent Jung further urged, "(Teachers) should hold on to the thread of dialogue even more tightly in difficult and challenging times. Please share your concerns with fellow teachers, vice principals, and the Office of Education."

In the guestbook, Superintendent Jung wrote, "The entire Seoul education community will never forget your dedication to education. May you rest in peace."

Previously, on the 22nd, a homeroom teacher for third-year students was found dead at a middle school in Jeju. It was reported that the deceased had suffered from protest complaints from a student's family. As a result, public outrage within the teaching community is growing, reminiscent of the 2023 Seoi Elementary School incident.

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