Corporal punishment....

So, one thing that Korean schools have a reputation of is the use of corporal punishment. Think bamboo sticks, a broom handle, whatever. I have seen the odd slap, ear-pull, etc. and didn't think it was too bad. I can tell you that the kids definitely pay attention. On the other hand, the fact that school in Korea is not totally "hands off" like it is in Canada means that you can also do nice things, like a pat on the back, and not be worried that the kid is going to call the police. In Canada, you wouldn't dare touch a student in any context. It is going to take some getting used to -- not that I am planning on hitting anyone.... no, that's the Korean teachers' job.

Today, as my class was starting, one of the Korean teachers (I usually have a Korean teacher in my class) caught 4 kids coming in late. She tapped her stick on a nearby table and, one-by-one, the kids put their hands on the table and each got a spanking in turn. Three hard whacks each on the butt and they joined the class.

Did it look like it hurt? Yes.
Did it look excessive? No.
Was I comfortable? Not sure.
Do I think those kids will be late for class again? Most probably, but not for a while.

I think I am still trying to figure out how I feel about it.

How many times in Canada would I have happily smacked/strangled/kicked some snotty teen who was giving me attitude????

But... to see it done for real?

Wow.