Seoul Mayor Calls for Overhaul of Education Superintendent Selection System

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon has called for a reform of the city’s education superintendent selection process, arguing that the current direct election system is flawed and susceptible to corruption. His comments come after the recent dismissal of Seoul’s Education Superintendent, Jo Hee-yeon, due to corruption charges. Oh believes that the direct election system has led to a situation where education policies are influenced by political interests and undermines the integrity of the educational system. He proposes introducing a ‘Learning Mate’ system, which would involve collaboration between the city government and education officials, aiming to enhance administrative efficiency and promote a harmonious relationship between local government and education. Oh also expressed concerns about the current autonomy inspection system, stating it places an undue financial burden on local governments without granting them sufficient authority. He believes this system hinders the true meaning of local autonomy.