A government effort to reduce the cost of private English tutoring in South Korea has unexpectedly backfired, according to a new study.
In 2018, officials implemented “absolute grading” for parts of the College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT), hoping it would reduce competition and ease education costs. However, recent research by Kwak Na-ram of Soongsil University found that this change actually increased private English education costs and participation rates over the past few years.
Analyzing data from more than 3 million students between 2007 and 2024, the study showed that average monthly English tutoring costs for general high school students increased from 90,000 won in 2016 to 157,000 won in 2024. Furthermore, the percentage of students taking private English lessons rose from 35.4% to 48.8% during the same period.
Researchers also found that the change affected students differently. High-achieving students increasingly relied on private tutoring, while participation among lower-performing students declined.
Experts concluded that simply changing how a test is graded is not enough to shrink the private education market. They believe broader changes to schools and the admissions system are needed to create a fairer environment for the students and their families.
J.K. Park Senior Reporter junior/1785397571/1613367801
Did English tutoring costs actually decrease?
When was absolute grading first implemented?
How much did monthly tutoring increase?
What should change for fairer admissions?
Is private tutoring necessary for students?
How can we lower education costs?
Do you enjoy studying English daily?
Should the test grading system change?
A government effort to reduce the cost of private English tutoring in South Korea has unexpectedly backfired, according to a new study.
