South Korea weighs essay questions for college entrance exam amid fairness, cost concerns

South Korea's National Education Committee has launched public consultations on a proposed overhaul of the university admissions system, with a significant focus on introducing essay and subjective-type questions to the national college entrance exam (Suneung) from 2026. This move, previously discussed but shelved due to concerns, is now being revisited.

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If we introduce essay questions to the Suneung in a state where teachers' evaluation capabilities have not improved, the effect of inducing private education will be significant.

The primary challenge lies in guaranteeing the consistency and fairness of grading. To address this, education authorities are exploring the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for initial grading, followed by review by multiple teachers. Some pilot programs in certain education offices have shown high consistency between AI and teacher grading. Proposals also include a phased introduction of "condition-controlled questions" that guide the answer's direction, and establishing a review committee with experts and parents for appeals.

Another major concern is the potential surge in private education costs. Critics argue that introducing subjective questions will inevitably lead to increased demand for private tutoring, exacerbating educational inequality. However, some educators counter that objective questions in the current system already drive private education, and new question formats might be harder for cram schools to exploit, necessitating innovative question design.

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In the case of objective questions in the current system, cram schools already provide learning using the texts taught in schools to create various problems. There are aspects that cram schools find difficult to approach with essay-type questions.

Teachers also express reservations, citing the heavy workload associated with the high school credit system and student record-keeping. The proposed changes to assessment methods add to their anxieties. Teacher unions are calling for measures like increased teacher staffing and reduced administrative burdens to alleviate these concerns. The committee plans to gather public opinions through regional forums and online platforms before releasing a draft plan in late October.

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Many teachers want essay and absolute grading, but they are also anxious about the change. The Ministry of Education must present a direction that reduces anxiety, such as expanding the number of teachers and reducing workload.