(1) Reasons for Proposal

A national consensus has been reached to address corruption in a number of kindergartens as revealed by the disclosure of the findings of kindergarten audits conducted by the Office of Education of each Si/Do.

There are ongoing efforts to improve the relevant systems, including proposals to amend the Early Childhood Education Act, Private School Act, and School Meals Act.

Accordingly, the Ministry of Education has announced “Measures to Strengthen the Public Role of Kindergartens” as a comprehensive plan to protect the right to early childhood education and increase the accountability of kindergartens, and this Amendment to the Enforcement Decree of the Early Childhood Education Act aims to lay the groundwork for the steps involved in the plan.

(2) Major Provisions

A. Prohibit kindergartens from shutting down during a semester, and require the submission of a transition plan for all enrolled children and consent forms from at least two-thirds of the parents when a kindergarten shuts down (Article 9, paragraph 2)

B. Obligate the superintendent of education to confirm the transition of all enrolled children when a kindergarten shuts down (Article 9, paragraph 6 newly inserted)

C. Include in the kindergarten regulations remuneration standards concerning salaries and allowances for teaching staff of private kindergartens (Article 10, paragraph 1)

D. Prescribe detailed standards for administrative measures such as reducing the maximum number of kindergarteners (Article 35-2 and attached Tables 3 and 4 newly inserted)

E. Obligate kindergartens that have been issued with an order to suspend operation to submit a placement plan for the enrolled children (Article 36, paragraph 2 newly inserted)