Six national universities, including Seoul National University, have rejected 45 applicants with a history of school violence in their 2025 admissions. Among the universities, Kyungpook National University rejected 22 applicants, the highest number, followed by Pusan National University with 8, Kangwon National University and Jeonbuk National University with 5 each, and Gyeongsang National University with 3. In Seoul National University’s regular admissions, two applicants were turned down after records of school violence were confirmed and points were deducted from their applications.
The expansion of such admissions penalties is due in part to the serious reality of school violence. According to a survey released by the Ministry of Education this year, one in forty elementary, middle, and high school students nationwide has been a victim of school violence. Particularly concerning is the situation among elementary students, where one in twenty has been affected.
Verbal abuse and bullying within the classroom are still common issues. A mother of an affected elementary student recounted, “[My child] went to take a shower, but everything was black and blue. They were mercilessly beaten. Even after being hit at a vital spot and expressing their pain, the beating continued.”
From the 2026 admissions process, which current high school seniors will face, all universities are mandated to consider records of school violence as a factor that negatively impacts evaluations. Consequently, it is expected that more students will be unable to attend university due to committing school violence.
(Composed by: Lim Kyung-min, Video Editing by: Yum Yoon-ji)
For reporting:
– Phone: 02-781-1234, 4444
– Email: kbs1234@kbs.co.kr
– Search ‘KBS Report’ on KakaoTalk, add the channel
– Follow KBS News on Naver and YouTube!