The private education craze has long been a hot topic and has had a great influence on the education sector in Korea. The most important part of Korea's education is the College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT). Recently, the government announced measures to reduce private education expenditure, of which the discontinuation of CSAT’s so-called “killer questions” has drawn attention. If they are removed from the examination, the excessive private education craze will gradually decrease. This will ease the academic burden on students and parents and put a focus on public education, instead of a private one. This will be an opportunity for students to learn in a fairer learning environment in the future.
    However, dropping the killer questions on the CSAT is like shaking the pillars of a stable building. Once these questions are removed, students are likely to be hit harder by small mistakes because the test will no longer be able to rely on these difficult questions to differentiate the students’ abilities. Students will not be able to afford to miss questions as their grades would drop significantly more. This increases uncertainty, which can lead to the side effect of revitalizing the private education market. In addition, the announcement to cut killer questions from the CSAT without prior notice can confuse test takers who are currently preparing for the college entrance examination.
    The exclusion of the CSAT killer questions was good in itself, but it is expected to bring about many changes in various ways. Educational activities are very important for the development of individuals, society, and humanity. Thorough planning and preparation will be needed for continuous growth and social development from a long-term perspective, not focusing on short-term goals or outcomes.

Interviewd by Jeong In-hu, Reporter