Hate speech seeps into Korean classrooms
A science teacher in South Korea was surprised when students laughed during a lesson about gravity. The teacher later learned that the Korean word for "gravity" had been turned into offensive slang in some far-right online communities. Many students were using the expression without knowing its original meaning.
Teachers say hateful slang from extremist internet communities is becoming more common in schools. A recent high school baseball game also drew criticism after students used chants that appeared to mock a tragic event in Korean history, showing how online language has spread into everyday school life.
According to a survey by the Korean Teachers and Education Workers Union, nearly 90% of teachers believe hate speech is a serious problem in classrooms, and more than 80% have heard students using such expressions. The most common types of hate speech target political leaders, Chinese people, women, and minority groups.
Teachers believe that many students are simply copying words they see on social media, online games, and short videos without understanding their historical or political meaning. They also say classmates are less likely than before to correct each other's offensive language.
Experts say schools need more support to deal with the problem. Instead of only punishing students, they believe schools should help students understand why hate speech is harmful and encourage respectful communication both online and offline.
Edited using generative AI tools.
Source : https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/education/20260702/hate-speech-seeps-into-korean-classrooms |
