Students need resting spaces in overheated private academy districts. Parents are turning to campers

A camper van parked in Daechi-dong, a neighborhood in southern Seoul known for its private academies, has sparked debate among parents about the rising costs and pressures of private education. Photos of the van circulated online, leading many to speculate that parents are using vehicles as temporary rest spaces for children between classes.

In Gangnam and nearby Seocho, parents sometimes retrofit vans into small living spaces so their children can eat, nap, or rest during long school days. Affordable short-term housing near cram school clusters is limited, pushing families to find creative solutions like camper vans or motels.

Real estate data shows that monthly rent for small apartments near Daechi-dong’s hagwon clusters starts at around 1.1 million won, compared to about 900,000 won citywide. During school breaks, demand for temporary housing rises, making it even harder for parents to find affordable rooms for their children.

Some families share rented rooms with others or use motels, but as students increasingly want privacy, parents turn to alternative solutions. Many see these arrangements as a way to save on costs while managing long days of education for their children.

The situation highlights the high financial and social pressures of Korea’s private education system. Some parents worry that if they cannot afford tutoring and temporary housing, alternatives like camper vans may become more common, reflecting the challenges of keeping up in an expensive academic environment.

Source:https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2026-01-27

Comprehension

Why are camper vans being used in Daechi-dong?
What purpose do the vans serve for students and parents?
How much does a small apartment near Daechi-dong cost compared to the city average?
Why do some parents choose motels or shared rooms for their children?
What does the situation reveal about private education in Korea?

Discussion

Why do you think private education is so expensive in South Korea?
Would you consider using a camper van or motel for your child’s schooling? Why or why not?
How does high rent near schools affect families’ choices?
Do you think children should spend long hours at cram schools? Explain your opinion.
How can cities help families with affordable short-term housing near schools?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using camper vans for students?
How does this story reflect social pressures on parents and students?
Are similar challenges seen in your country’s education system? Give examples.

Vocabulary

Camper van – a van converted for temporary living or resting
Hagwon – private cram school in Korea
Officetel – a building with both office and residential units
Retrofit – to add new features to an old structure or vehicle
Temporary housing – short-term living arrangements