South-Korea has been strongly influenced by Confucianism, a philosophy that prioritises social harmony and the group over the individual. People are therefore usually encouraged to blend in with society rather than stand out. Academic achievement is also highly valued, especially among students, because Confucianism requires you to engage in self-cultivation. Getting good grades, attending high-quality schools, and respecting elders are often seen as important signs of success and responsibility.
Bullying, on the other hand, damages societal harmony and goes against principles of treating people with respect. It is, therefore, considered to be contrary to Confucianism. Like in many other countries, bullying takes place in the Korean educational system, especially among middle and high school students. In recent years, South Korea has started treating school bullying more seriously and has introduced punishments for kids participating in bullying and school violence.
South-Korean universities have introduced a Confucian measure to deal with un-Confucian behaviour. Thus, information about serious incidents of school violence or bullying can be included in a students’ school record and these school records may be considered during the university admissions process. Although it depends on the circumstances and it is up to the university, a history of school violence can negatively affect a student’s chances of being admitted. These consequences may continue beyond university admissions. Students with a record of bullying and school violence may also experience challenges in the future because education and enrolling in a high-quality university can affect future employment opportunities in South Korea.
This provides an interesting connection to Confucian principles. Confucianism places great value on both individual growth through self-cultivation and on social peace. While punishing bullying and school violence supports social harmony and holds students accountable, it may also limit student’s opportunity to develop themselves. Therefore, refusing a student admission because of past bullying is a Confucian measure to correct acting against it.
South Korea’s approach to bullying highlights the value of harmony, respect, education, and personal growth. It also raises the question of how to find a balance between providing students with the chance to grow, learn, change, and holding them accountable for bullying and school violence.
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Was je op school een echte pestkop? Dan kun je de universiteit wel vergeten in Zuid-Korea – NOS