Education Ministry says it will distinguish between general mental health issues and behavior that poses risk to others
As South Korea’s ruling People Power Party are proposing what they are calling the "Haneul bill" to place “at-risk” teachers with mental illnesses on mandatory leave, teachers’ organizations are pushing back, fearing that it could reinforce stigma and discourage educators from seeking necessary treatment.
Educators worry that targeting mental health in such a manner could lead to broader discrimination against teachers, labeling them as “potential threats” rather than offering the necessary support.
Critics argue that a hasty legislative approach could push struggling teachers further into hiding, increasing the likelihood that they will avoid early diagnosis and treatment.
Teacher advocacy groups have been vocal about their concerns.
The Korean Teachers and Education Workers Union warned that principals or school administrators could abuse the power of placing teachers on leave, particularly in cases involving disputes with parents. Some fear that parents, in conflict with a teacher over complaints or disciplinary matters, could pressure schools to dismiss educators solely based on their mental health status.
The Elementary School Teachers’ Union echoed similar concerns, emphasizing that without a clear definition of what constitutes an “at-risk” teacher with mental health issues, and proper support systems in place, focusing on forced leave and potential dismissals will do more harm than good.
Amid the growing backlash from teachers, the Ministry of Education clarified its stance on the proposed Kim Haneul bill on Tuesday, stating that the legislation aims to differentiate between general psychological difficulties and individuals who pose a risk to others.
In response to concerns that the act could stigmatize mental health issues among teachers, the ministry said that the policy is not meant to target all educators living with mental health issues. Rather, it aims to establish legal grounds for emergency intervention in cases where individuals pose an imminent threat.
The proposed legislation would allow school principals to take emergency separation measures for teachers deemed high-risk and authorize education offices to deploy emergency response teams comprised of legal and mental health experts when necessary. The ministry also pledged to expand mental health support services for all educators.
Despite the announcement, teachers' organizations remain skeptical, arguing that the criteria for what constitutes a "high-risk" case remain unclear and that the act could still discourage teachers from seeking mental health support.
A 2023 survey by KTU revealed that South Korean teachers face significantly higher rates of depression than the general public. Among the 3,505 elementary, middle and high school teachers surveyed, 24.9 percent exhibited mild depressive symptoms, while 38.3 percent displayed signs of severe depression -- a rate nearly four times higher than the general average.
“Teachers already face higher rates of mental illness compared to other professions, yet this law frames them as threats rather than individuals in need of help,” KTU spokesperson Lee Han-seop said.
The ministry also said it would strengthen its teacher qualification process by reinforcing aptitude and personality assessments. Under the new policy, aspiring teachers must pass a teacher aptitude and personality test at least twice during training to obtain their teaching certification. Those who do not pass will be supported to complete an in-depth interview and professional counseling program.
Additionally, newly hired teachers will be required to undergo two rounds of in-depth interviews assessing their suitability for the profession. The Education Ministry stated that these measures aim to filter out high-risk individuals before they enter the classroom.
jychoi@heraldcorp.com
