Re-emphasizing Character Education in Early Childhood Programs: Korean Children's Experiences

Abstract

Character education efforts are influenced by the cultures in which they are implemented. This article describes the character education provided to children in Korea, both in school and at home. The author explores how the Korean early childhood education system strives to ensure positive character development among children. These discussions are especially relevant in today's education context, which is often dominated by competitive, data-driven standardized examinations that can have detrimental effects on character-building among children and youth. The focus on character education is set as a counterbalance to the materialistic and selfish tendencies that greatly define “academic success” in today's world. It warrants a shift in education goals in order to promote caring, pride in one's cultural heritage, and respect for cultural differences, as well as to cultivate cooperation.