The Weihai Korean School (Principal Ko So-hyang) has relocated to a new campus, marking a new chapter in its development.
Founded in the wake of the tragic kindergarten bus accident in 2017, the school aims to nurture students' futures in a larger and more comfortable learning environment.
The school has completed its move to the new campus located at 6 Jinhuabei Road in the Lingang District of Weihai City and will hold a relocation ceremony on the 23rd. Officials from the South Korean Ministry of Education, the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Qingdao, and local government representatives, along with community members and parents, are expected to attend.
Principal Ko So-hyang expressed, "The sight of students entering the new school with bright smiles on August 19 is an unforgettable and moving moment. I am grateful to everyone who worked hard for a better educational environment. I hope students can learn freely and pursue their dreams in this new space."
The foundation of the school is rooted in the desire of bereaved families to transform their grief into hope. Following the bus fire tragedy on May 9, 2017, the families donated 484,000 yuan (approximately 83 million won at the time) from compensation funds to establish the school, hoping to prevent similar tragedies. With support from the community and Korean and Chinese governmental agencies, the school received approval for establishment just four months after the application.
Starting with 172 students in 2019, the school has grown to accommodate 297 students across 12 classes, including one special education class, with 41 staff members.
Previously, the school rented part of a nearby foreign school’s facilities and shared a playground, but the new campus significantly expands its educational space.
The new building, constructed by the Lingang District government, will be leased for 20 years and covers an area of 18,852 square meters, with a total floor area of 9,119 square meters. The playground has also been expanded from 3,000 square meters to approximately 7,500 square meters of dedicated outdoor space.
At the end of June, the school received the facilities and has since established eco-friendly interiors and smart educational environments in 44 educational and administrative spaces, including a library, classrooms, gymnasium, cafeteria, science lab, and art room.
In the new campus, the focus remains on the students. The school implements a 'high-tech, high-touch' educational approach that combines advanced technology with warm emotional connections between teachers and students, continuing personalized career guidance and character education.
A school representative stated, "We will not forget the wishes of the sacrificed children and their families, nor the community's desire for a safe educational environment. We will do our best to help students grow into global talents with character and creativity."
The relocation ceremony will feature congratulatory performances, a plaque unveiling, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The school plans to install safety fences around the elementary school playground and sports field, as well as a stand canopy, to enhance student safety and convenience.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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