South Korea’s Suneung Exam Faces Criticism Over English Section

The annual College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT), known as the Suneung, has garnered international attention following reports from British media highlighting concerns over the exam’s challenging English section. Complaints regarding the 2026 English section, described by the BBC as “notoriously difficult,” have raised questions about South Korea’s high-stakes university admissions system.

The Suneung, which serves as a critical determinant for university placement, has been a subject of scrutiny, particularly regarding the complexity of its reading passages. South Korean students have likened the English exam to “deciphering ancient scripts,” indicating a significant disconnect between the test and practical language skills. This sentiment was echoed in various reports, including those from The Guardian and the Daily Telegraph, which questioned the educational value of the exam’s content.

Shifting Grading Systems and Results

According to South Korea’s Education Ministry, only 3.11% of test-takers achieved the highest score in the English section, a noticeable decline from 6.22% in the previous year. This shift comes on the heels of a change in grading systems implemented in 2018, which aimed to reduce score discrimination and lessen the reliance on private tutoring. Critics argue that despite these changes, the Suneung continues to perpetuate a culture of excessive competition, prioritizing the ability to navigate difficult passages over genuine language proficiency.

The recent results have reignited debates about the effectiveness of the Suneung and its implications for students’ mental health. Reports have highlighted the intense pressure placed on students, who must answer 45 questions in just 70 minutes. This competitive atmosphere raises concerns about the mental well-being of test-takers, prompting discussions about the potential risks associated with such high-stakes examinations.

Administrative Changes Amidst Controversy

In a notable development, Oh Seung-gul, the head of the Korea Institute for Curriculum and Evaluation, resigned amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the Suneung. His departure underscores the challenges faced by educational authorities in managing an examination that has faced repeated criticism since its inception in 1994. The Suneung has often oscillated between being perceived as “too easy” and “too hard,” a fluctuation that exacerbates uncertainty for students and fuels the demand for private education.

The ongoing discussion around the Suneung reflects broader societal concerns regarding educational pressures in South Korea. As students prepare for this pivotal exam, the focus on achieving high scores can overshadow the importance of developing practical language skills, raising questions about the overall objectives of the country’s educational system.