A disturbing incident occurred at an elementary school in Seoul, where a sixth-grade student physically assaulted a female homeroom teacher. The teacher, known as Ms. A, suffered a brutal attack in front of other students, leading to a three-week medical leave due to her injuries. Outraged by the serious violation of teachers’ authority, more than 1,800 fellow teachers submitted a petition for justice.
The student, identified as B, had behavioral issues and attended special classes for anger management, and had previously assaulted Ms. A in March, leading her to seek psychiatric treatment. The recent attack happened during an attempt by Ms. A to persuade B, who preferred physical education over counseling sessions. In response to her efforts, B hurled objects and textbooks, verbally abused her, and then began physically assaulting her, threatening to do so again if she reported him.
The situation escalated further when Ms. A threatened to press charges against B, prompting him to intensify the violence. He relentlessly attacked her, causing severe injuries, and Ms. A described feeling helpless and fearing for her life during the assault.
Following the incident, Ms. A was diagnosed with a three-week injury and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Another teacher, known as C, witnessed the distressing scene with a few students in the classroom, including a crying girl and broken mirrors.
B’s side responded to the incident, stating that he is undergoing treatment for depression and has borderline intelligence, and accused Ms. A of singling him out for discipline. B claimed to be the victim and announced plans to report Ms. A and other teachers to the education board.
In response to the incident and in support of Ms. A, 1,800 fellow teachers signed the petition, demanding justice. The school administration decided to hold a school committee meeting to address the issue of safeguarding teachers’ rights. Ms. A has taken legal action and plans to file criminal charges against B this week, and a civil lawsuit against his parents.
Overall, this incident has sparked widespread concern among teachers about their safety and rights in schools, prompting calls for appropriate legal measures to protect both educators and students.
In the context of the recent incident, it is essential to understand the historical backdrop of corporal punishment in the Korean education system. During Japanese colonial rule in 1936 and later under military dictatorship, corporal punishment was deeply ingrained and accepted as a means of discipline. The Japanese style of education influenced the Korean system, and military-style discipline was prevalent, especially in boys’ middle and high schools.
Students who didn’t comply with authority faced physical violence as a form of correction, often causing severe injuries. Slapping resulted in hearing loss, and beatings with clubs led to spinal damage. Fear and group pressure were employed to enforce discipline. The legacy of corporal punishment persisted through generations, and parents who experienced it during their school days may unconsciously contribute to the current issue of violence against teachers by students.
In the present day, violence against teachers has become a rampant issue, reflecting a society marked by a cycle of social revenge. The historical context and inevitable passage of time reveal a heartbreaking connection between the past and the challenges faced today in the education system. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive understanding of its historical roots and a collective effort to create a safer and more respectful learning environment for all.