Inclusive education in South Korea

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to examine the current implementation of inclusive education in South Korea and discuss its challenges. The history of special education is first described followed by an introduction to policies relevant to special and inclusive education. Next, a critical discussion of the state of inclusive education follows built upon the basis of perceived benefits and challenges by teachers involved in implementing inclusive education. This discussion extends further to include broader issues and factors that impact upon the successful implementation of inclusive education, such as teacher education and the relationship between general and special educators.

Keywords:

• inclusive education
• special education
• South Korea
• policies and challenges
• teacher preparation

Acknowledgements

I would like to specifically acknowledge the contribution of Dr Ming-Gon John Lian, who was the Honorary Director at the Center for Advancement in Special Education, Faculty of Education, the University of Hong Kong, for his comments on this paper.

Note on Contributor

Yong-Wook Kim obtained his Ph.D. in Special Education. From 2009 to 2011 he was Dean of the Graduate School of Education, Daegu University. He was General Director, Korea National Institute of Special Education, Korea Ministry of Education from 2003 to 2006 and from 1995 to the present, he has been Professor at the Department of Special Education, Daegu University.