Safety or Surveillance? Korea Debates Cameras in Kindergarten Classrooms
A growing debate in South Korea, centering on whether CCTV cameras should be mandatory inside kindergarten classrooms, highlights a broader tension concerning child safety and educational autonomy. The issue gained renewed urgency after allegations that a teacher abused a 5-year-old child at a kindergarten in Chuncheon, prompting calls for stronger safeguards.
Supporters argue that CCTV cameras are an effective tool for protecting young children, who often struggle to clearly explain injuries or conflicts. Video footage can help verify what occurred, deter abuse, and resolve disputes more fairly. Advocates also say cameras can protect teachers by disproving false accusations.
CCTV is already deeply embedded in South Korean society. According to government data, nearly 2 million cameras operate in public institutions nationwide, playing an integral role in security, transportation, medical monitoring, and disaster prevention. CCTV installation has been mandatory in childcare centers since 2015, after a high-profile abuse case. The policy requires cameras be present in playrooms, dining areas, and playgrounds, with footage stored for 60 days.
Kindergartens, however, are regulated under a different law, making camera installation optional despite repeated legislative efforts to mandate it.
Opponents warn that constant surveillance could undermine the educational environment. They argue that kindergartens are learning communities, not monitoring zones, and that everyday conflicts between children can become important teaching moments. Under constant observation, teachers may hesitate to discipline, guide, or comfort students, weakening their authority and limiting educational freedom. Critics also stress that surveillance cameras alone cannot prevent abuse. They call for better teacher training, oversight systems, and trust-based school cultures instead.
Blair For The Junior Times junior/1770881210/1613367844
1. What caused the debate about CCTV in kindergartens?
2. When did CCTV become mandatory in childcare centers?
3. Why do some people say cameras protect children?
4. Who warns that surveillance could undermine learning environments?
1. Are cameras in classrooms a good way to help?
2. How can schools promote trust between teachers and parents?
3. Where do you feel most comfortable without any cameras?
4. Which training is most necessary for teachers today?
A growing debate in South Korea, centering on whether CCTV cameras should be mandatory inside kindergarten classrooms, highlights a broader tension concerning child safety and educational autonomy. The issue gained renewed urgency after allegations that a teacher abused a 5-year-old child at a kindergarten in Chuncheon, prompting calls for stronger safeguards.
