[2025 Audit] Choi Kyojin and Cha Jeongin Respond to Early Learning Concerns: "We Will Work to Eradicate Side Effects"

Minister of Education Choi Kyojin and National Education Commission Chairman Cha Jeongin both emphasized the need for strong sanctions regarding excessive early learning.

On the morning of October 14, during the National Assembly's Education Committee audit, National Education Commission Chairman Cha Jeongin responded to Assemblywoman Jin Sunmi of the Democratic Party of Korea, who pointed out that "English kindergartens are causing major social issues by conducting so-called 'age 4 level tests.'" He stated, "It is time for the government to actively discuss regulations not only for academies administering level tests, but also for more serious forms of early private education."

Chairman Cha further stressed the need to regulate private education for infants and young children, saying, "We have been too hesitant and indecisive. We have reached a dead end. We can no longer delay active discussions on regulation."

Yonhap News Agency

Minister of Education Choi Kyojin responded to Assemblywoman Jin's criticism that the Ministry of Education's recent nationwide survey, which found only 23 English kindergartens (English academies for young children) conducting level tests, was far from reality. He said, "I later learned that similar practices were taking place under different pretexts, such as dividing classes, and for various other reasons." He added, "I am sorry and truly ashamed of the survey results." He went on to say, "I take this issue very seriously and will do my best to eradicate it."

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