Amid the fast-paced college life, assignments accumulate, and by mid-April, the full-scale exam period begins. Unlike high school exams, university exams do not carry the same level of compulsory pressure. However, students can still feel overwhelmed when considering the weight of future employment and career opportunities. For freshmen, academic grades may not initially seem important, but as they advance in their studies and get closer to entering the workforce, the importance of grades becomes more apparent. In Korea, university education is not just a place for gaining knowledge, but an essential space for preparing for the future. Particularly in a society where academic background directly affects employment, university grades and academic achievements are vital factors in evaluations. High grades and a degree from a prestigious university serve as powerful tools in the competitive job market, motivating students to endure the pressure of assignments and exams in their pursuit of securing a job and enhancing future prospects. Through this article, The Dongguk Post explores how Korean university students approach studying during the exam period and the unique culture that has emerged around it.
Changes during the exam period
As exams approach, students begin to feel immense pressure. While some start studying ahead of time, most students begin in earnest one to two weeks before the exams. Once they start studying, they often become absorbed for long periods. As a result, their usual bright clothes turn into muted tones, and their faces become haggard from lack of sleep. Many students reduce their sleep to study, and some try to secure a little more rest by wearing hats and glasses instead of contact lenses.
Studying at home can be comfortable, but the lack of structure and the overly familiar environment often make it difficult to concentrate. As a result, many students head to the central library, which fills up quickly, and some even wander around campus in search of available study spaces. The constant competition for seats adds unnecessary stress, especially during exam season. Due to the shortage of space and the desire for a new, more stimulating environment, some students become part of the “Kagong-jok,” a term used for those who study in cafes. However, this practice has sparked controversy, as occupying a seat for long hours after buying just one drink is often seen as inconsiderate to both staff and other customers. To avoid this discomfort, some students now turn to “study cafes,” spaces specifically designed for independent learning. These facilities usually operate 24/7 at a reasonable price, allowing users to book seats by the hour or day, and offering an environment optimized for focus and productivity. With designated quiet zones, individual cubicles, and minimal distractions, study cafes have become an increasingly popular alternative for students looking to escape the limitations of home and the overcrowding of school libraries.
Snack events by the Student Council during the exam period
The student council or student clubs organize snack events during exams to support tired students. These events are usually organized by department or club, allow students to take a short break from the exhaustion of exam preparation. Snacks such as toast, hot dogs, and other simple items are prepared and provided free of charge within the budget. In most cases, the event details are shared through department Instagram accounts, and the snacks offered vary slightly by department. These snack events play a role in alleviating stress and fatigue during the exam period. Although they are first-come, first-served, many students take a brief moment to forget about their exam stress and recharge with free snacks. Especially for students who are deeply absorbed in their studies, providing high-calorie food helps not only in physical recovery but also in finding mental relaxation. Some departments also offer night-study kits with toiletries, eye drops, and instant noodles for late-night students. These small events offer students significant comfort during the exam period and provide a brief moment of joy in an otherwise tense atmosphere.
Misguided strategy born from exam pressure
While students study hard to achieve good grades and prepare for their future, problematic cultures like “Jokbo” have emerged. The word jokbo originally referred to a genealogical record that documented family lineage, especially among the yangban (scholar-aristocrats) class during the Joseon Dynasty. Over time, the term evolved to mean any valuable, insider information passed down within a group, eventually coming to refer to collections of past exam questions or study notes shared among students—what we now call exam jokbo. It was initially considered a helpful tool for exam preparation, but it has gradually shifted into a way of securing higher scores with less effort by relying on repeated questions. As such, its educational value has become increasingly questionable. If jokbo were equally available to all students, it might not raise concerns, but in reality, access is often limited to those who belong to specific clubs or social circles, widening the gap between students. A more serious problem arises when jokbo is traded for money or used unethically, undermining the fairness of the academic process. This issue is not only the responsibility of students but also of those who design and reuse similar exam questions. Ultimately, the use of jokbo leads to unfair competition and diminishes trust in academic achievements, casting a shadow over the integrity of the educational environment.
The exam culture of Korean university students is not only shaped by academic achievement and social pressure, but also serves as an important process for personal growth and success. Students dedicate themselves to managing their grades and preparing for exams as they focus on building their future careers. While the stress and competition they face can be overwhelming at times, it ultimately becomes a valuable experience that leads to personal achievement and self-improvement. Moreover, this competitive environment drives not only the development of Korean society but also acts as a motivator for individuals to pursue their own goals and dreams. Each student’s efforts and challenges contribute to the progress of the nation while laying a strong foundation for their own better lives. Ultimately, the exam culture among Korean university students is a dynamic process that nurtures both personal and social growth, as they strive for success and a brighter future.