S. Korea's class president elections evolve as competition grows

Electing a class president has long been a rite of passage for South Korean students, offering an early glimpse into leadership and democracy.

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But what was once a simple classroom vote is becoming more competitive, shaped by changing parenting styles and the growing reach of private education.

With more students running and some families seeking outside coaching, the elections are increasingly reflecting broader shifts in South Korea’s education culture.

The system, in place for more than a century, is evolving as parents send their children to private academies to help secure victory in these elections. At the same time, the number of candidates has surged, with more students now stepping forward to run for the position.

Traditionally, only a handful of students — typically two or three in a class of more than 30 — would volunteer to run. After brief speeches, classmates would cast their votes and teachers would announce the winning student as president, along with one boy and one girl as vice-presidents.

In the past, being elected class president carried a sense of prestige and authority. The role extended beyond organising activities or assisting teachers. Presidents represented classmates in greetings, relayed instructions and, when the teacher stepped out, were often entrusted with maintaining order.

For many students, the position offered a symbolic taste of leadership within their own small society.

Today, however, a majority of students now vie for the role. Parents say as many as 70 per cent to 80 per cent of students raise their hands to run, turning the once-simple contest into a highly competitive event.