Choi Tae-sung, a history instructor and broadcaster, has spoken out regarding the mocking remarks made by some students of Baejae High School's baseball team about the May 18 Democratic Movement during a high school baseball tournament.
On July 1, Choi expressed his concerns on social media, stating, "Baejae Academy, founded by Apenzeller, marked the beginning of modern scholarship in our country. The school's principle has always been service." He added, "In light of recent events, I believe our generation, including myself, must seriously reflect on the direction of education in South Korea. I feel deeply ashamed."
According to a report by Yonhap News on June 29, during the eighth inning of a game at the 81st Cheongryonggi National High School Baseball Championship held in Mokdong, Seoul, some Baejae High School players shouted slogans such as "Let's go to Starbucks" and "Tank Day." These slogans were reminiscent of a promotional event by Starbucks Korea that coincided with the May 18 memorial ceremony, which sparked public outrage.
Following the incident, Baejae High School students expressed a desire to apologize to Gwangju Jeil High School, but the latter declined, stating they were not ready to accept an apology.
On the same day, the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education announced that Baejae High School staff and students, along with parents, had conveyed their intention to visit Gwangju Jeil High School to offer a sincere apology. However, Gwangju Jeil High School responded that their students were not prepared to accept an apology at this time and requested that the visit be reconsidered.
The Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education emphasized, "We prioritize the psychological well-being of Gwangju Jeil High School students. We will coordinate future visit schedules in consultation with the school," adding that while Baejae High School is willing to visit and apologize, no specific date has been set yet.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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