Introduction, background, and international perspectives: Korean history, culture, and education

Ogbuʹs (1988) “cultural model of success” guides us in understanding oneʹs success through historical, cultural, structural (normative), and situational factors. Perceptions of schooling and achievement are related and affected by these important factors. Therefore, this chapter gives an overview of the study, its purpose and significance. Background literature on South Korea, such as its demographics and history, is used to introduce the influence of culture on South Korean education. Finally, a brief history of Korean education provides a context for the study.