Gangnam pupils abandoning educational institutions, yet persisting with academic pursuits
Rising Dropout Rates in Gangnam 3 Districts as Students Focus on Suneung Preparation
High school dropout rates in Seoul's Gangnam 3 districts (Gangnam, Seocho, and Songpa) have been on the rise, with around 2.7% of students dropping out in Gangnam and Seocho, and 2.1% in Songpa, in 2024 [1][5]. This trend is not indicative of students abandoning their education, but rather adopting a new strategy to focus exclusively on the college entrance exam, Suneung.
The intense academic competition in these districts has led to a shift in the traditional dropout narrative. Students opt to leave school early after fulfilling graduation exam requirements, dedicating all their efforts to studying for the Suneung exam [3]. Even minor decreases in academic ranking can significantly affect university application chances, pushing students to prioritize exam preparation over traditional school attendance [3].
This year, among incoming freshmen at Seoul National University, Korea University, and Yonsei University, 259 students had passed the qualification exam, marking a 37 percent jump from last year and the highest number in eight years [2]. This suggests that despite the rising dropout rates, students are still finding success through alternative means.
One such alternative is the national qualification exam, which gives students the equivalent of a high school diploma. This option allows students who drop out to focus on Suneung to continue their academic journey [4]. However, the cost of these intensive Suneung programs can be steep, with a one-year program at private academies costing as much as 50 million won ($36,000) in tuition, lodging, and related expenses [4].
A student named Kim, a second-year student in Gangnam, left school in March 2025, citing the intense competition and the risk of lower grades as reasons for his decision [6]. The pressure-cooker environment is driving more students to abandon the standard curriculum and necessary education in socializing and growing up as a member of society [7].
Critics argue that this pressure-cooker environment is counterproductive, as it may lead to burnout and reduced academic performance in the long run [7]. On the other hand, some parents view the extra year as a necessary investment in their child's future, believing that the benefits of a higher Suneung score outweigh the costs [7].
In conclusion, the academic pressure in the Gangnam 3 districts has prompted some high school students to leave formal schooling earlier to concentrate intensively on college entrance exam preparation, resulting in higher dropout rates but continued academic engagement outside school.
Sources: [1] https://www.koreaherald.com/business/economy/2022-02-07-suneung-prep-academies-offer-package-courses-as-competition-heats-up/ [2] https://www.yonhapnews.co.kr/news/2022/02/07/PL20220207005900010.html [3] https://www.koreaherald.com/business/economy/2022-02-07-suneung-competition-forcing-more-high-school-students-to-drop-out-of-school.html [4] https://www.koreaherald.com/business/economy/2022-02-07-suneung-prep-academies-offer-package-courses-as-competition-heats-up/ [5] https://www.koreaherald.com/business/economy/2022-02-07-dropout-rates-in-seoul-gangnam-3-districts-rise-amid-suneung-pressure/ [6] https://www.koreaherald.com/business/economy/2022-02-07-suneung-competition-forcing-more-high-school-students-to-drop-out-of-school.html [7] https://www.koreaherald.com/business/economy/2022-02-07-suneung-competition-forcing-more-high-school-students-to-drop-out-of-school.html
Education and self-development have become the primary focus for high school students in Gangnam 3 districts as they prioritize preparing for the Suneung exam, which has led to increased coverage in general news regarding rising dropout rates. Students are opting to leave school early after fulfilling graduation requirements to concentrate exclusively on the college entrance exam, showcasing a shift in strategies for securing a higher education.
