Korea International School Volleyball Varsity. 2023 Sep.17th

On a typical sunny afternoon at many international schools, students fill the field with a smile, wearing team jerseys, and practicing for their next game. Yet while these communities support these engaging programs through athlete competitions, a variety of Korean schools provide fewer opportunities to participate, heading straight to academies or home to study in the sedentary environment. Therefore, although individuals may argue that prioritizing academics are more essential, schools which advocate and participate in sports activity creates a healthier and more balanced environment, as it enhances student happiness and school community

Korean students are generally unhappier compared to international school students due to excessive focus on academics, and therefore a deficiency on physical activities. In a typical environment of south korean schools, according to Sports Chosun, Korean students generally are unhappier compared to international school, as it says, “The sports budget was 1.6795 trillion won, up 5.6 billion won and only 0.3% from the previous year’s 1.6739 trillion won. In fact, the sentiment in the sports world is that it is no different from a reduction,” this shows that sports are neglected in Korean society even at the legislative level, signifying that at the smaller scale there would also not be as much focus for the sports system. Therefore, Korean schools would naturally drift away from sports activities. As a result, physical activity becomes less of a priority. This heavy academic focus can lead to increased stress and a more sedentary lifestyle. Without regular opportunities to participate in sports, students may struggle to maintain both their physical and mental well-being.

As PubMed Central states that there was a positive relationship between emotional and satisfaction among Korean students, including the previous year’s 1.6739 trillion won, In fact, the sentiment in the sports world is that it is no different from a reduction, showing how there is a positive relationship between students’ emotional well-being and their level of physical activity, but Korean community does not fully support these ideas. Students who participate regularly in sports report higher levels of satisfaction and overall happiness, signifying that international school students are more likely to experience these in their environment, as they typically provide varsity sports programs, competition energy, and spirit to help relieve stress from academic pressure.

In conclusion, while academics remain important, the comparison between international schools and Korean public schools highlights the value of sports advocacy. Schools that encourage athletic participation provide students with a more balanced education, supporting both their academic success and personal well-being.