South Korea’s Suneung exam, which is among the toughest exams in the world, is held in the second week of November. More than five lakh students sit in it every year. The exam lasts for nine hours and passing this exam is considered a guarantee of a better future. After this examination, it is decided which university the youth of South Korea will go to. This affects their future job, income and even relationships. Let us know how the Suneung exam is conducted.
Sunneung is an ability test, which is a means of getting admission into renowned colleges in South Korea. The dream of every student aspiring for higher education is to pass this examination. According to media reports, due to this exam, cases of depression are increasing among the youth here. Here the suicide rate among youth up to 24 years has increased by 10 percent in the last five years.
This is the structure of the exam
Sunnyung exam covers various subjects like Korean language, mathematics, English, science etc. Students are required to have in-depth knowledge of these subjects. The format of the examination is designed in such a way that it tests the analytical skills, problem solving abilities and deep level of knowledge of the students.
Importance and Social Impact
The result of this exam is not limited to academic success only, but it also impacts the students’ future career, social status and even marriage chances. . In South Korea, students who pass Suneung are held in high regard in society, while unsuccessful students are often viewed with a negative outlook.
Impact on mental health
Although the importance of Suneung exam is very high, but due to it mental health related problems are also increasing. Many students feel extreme stress and pressure while preparing for this exam, which eventually leads to serious problems like depression and suicide. Youth suicide rates in South Korea are considered to be the highest among developed countries and the problem has increased over the years.
Special arrangements on the day of examination
Special arrangements are made all over the country on the day of exam, so that students get the opportunity to take the examination without any hindrance. Timings of trains and flights are changed, opening hours of government offices and banks are also changed. Vehicles are provided by police officers to transport students to the examination centre.
Now we can understand that South Korea’s Suneung Exam is not only an academic challenge, but it also has a deep impact on the society. Its difficulty and its consequences have made it an institution that is having a serious impact on the mental health of the younger generation.
