South Korea to cut 3,700 teaching posts as experts warn of Japan-style shortage

The government unveiled the workforce adjustment plan earlier this month, citing a sharp decline in student numbers after years of ultra-low fertility, Chosunbiz reported. The reduction will largely be carried out by cutting new hires and not fully replacing retiring teachers.

The logic seems straightforward: fewer children mean fewer classrooms to staff. But critics say education does not shrink neatly with population statistics.

Teacher groups argue that classroom demands are becoming more complex, not lighter. Schools are seeing rising numbers of multicultural students and students who need additional academic support. In many areas, teachers report heavier workloads and growing administrative pressure despite declining enrollment, according to UPI.

Experts warn that relying too heavily on demographic projections risks repeating Japan’s experience. Japan also reduced teacher recruitment for years as its birth rate fell. Yet in recent years, many regions have struggled with persistent teacher shortages. Schools have reported difficulty filling vacancies, principals stepping into classrooms, and declining numbers of applicants for teaching positions.

Authorities have since expanded recruitment efforts, including allowing earlier exam access for university students and encouraging retired teachers to return, but critics say these measures came after working conditions had already deteriorated.

South Korea continues to face one of the world’s lowest fertility rates. Although its total fertility rate edged up to around 0.75 in 2024 after eight consecutive years of decline, it remains far below the OECD average of 1.43.

Policy researchers say teacher planning should reflect real classroom workload, including teaching hours and student support needs, rather than relying primarily on population data.