The Impact of Korea’s ‘Hagwon’ Culture on Academic Pressure Among High School Students

Abstract

South Korea’s hagwon culture, characterized by private academies offering supplementary education, has become a cornerstone of its competitive academic system. While hagwon provide tailored support and intensive preparation for high-stakes exams like the College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT), their prevalence has led to heightened academic pressure, socio-economic disparities, and significant psychological and physical consequences for students. This paper explores the core features of hagwon culture, including its integration into daily life, financial demands, and its dual role in academic support and test preparation. Comparative analysis with similar systems in Japan and China highlights the unique aspects of Korea’s education landscape. Furthermore, the study examines parental motivations, societal expectations, and public attitudes toward the sustainability of hagwon. The paper concludes by proposing policy reforms, such as enhancing public education, promoting holistic learning approaches, and addressing socio-economic inequities, to reduce reliance on private academies and foster a more equitable and balanced education system.