On December 22, 2025, the Korean Teachers' Union and the Korean Teachers' Pension Association announced the official launch of the 15th Korean Teachers' Award, a national event that has grown into one of the country’s most respected educational honors. Since its inception in 2012, the award has celebrated teachers who have made significant contributions to the advancement of public education, while also highlighting the evolving realities and rights of educators in Korea. This year’s event continues that tradition, shining a spotlight on those who have devoted their careers—at least a decade or more—to the service of students and the broader educational community.
The Korean Teachers' Award, jointly organized by the Ministry of Education and the Korean Teachers' Pension Association, aims to foster a culture of respect for teachers and to boost morale among educators. According to KPI News, the award is specifically designed to honor teachers who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in teaching, research, and educational development, as well as a deep commitment to their students’ growth. The selection process is thorough, involving a combination of preliminary, main, and merit-based reviews to ensure transparency and public trust.
The scope of the award is broad, encompassing educators from various sectors. As reported by EduChang, a total of 11 teachers are selected across six categories: one from early childhood education, one from special education, three from elementary schools, three from middle schools, two from higher education, and one from the field of lifelong education. From among these exemplary educators, one is chosen as the grand prize winner, a distinction that carries both prestige and substantial financial support.
The financial rewards this year are significant. The grand prize winner receives 20 million won, while each category winner is awarded 10 million won. In addition to these monetary prizes, recipients are honored with government medals or decorations and commemorative plaques, as stipulated by the Ministry of Education’s official guidelines. As reported by EduChang, the level of each honor is determined according to the length of service and existing government regulations regarding public commendations. For instance, those with 15 years or more of service may be eligible for higher-level medals, while those with at least 10 years may receive other forms of recognition.
But the recognition goes beyond the awards ceremony. The Korean Teachers' Congress, which has accompanied the award since its founding, serves as a vital forum for discussing teachers’ rights, working conditions, and the practical realities faced in schools today. The congress not only celebrates those who have excelled but also provides support for teachers’ livelihoods and working environments. According to KPI News, this support includes approximately 20 million won for living expenses and 10 million won for school-related costs, reflecting a tangible investment in educators’ well-being.
The selection process itself is designed to be rigorous and participatory. As outlined by EToday, candidates must have at least 10 years of teaching experience and be recognized for their exceptional contributions to teaching, educational research, or academic activities. Teachers may be nominated through two channels: either by institutional leaders—such as local education authorities—or by the public, including students, parents, colleagues, or community members. However, a candidate cannot be nominated through both channels at once. Institutional nominations close by the end of December 2025, while public nominations are accepted until January 15, 2026. Public nominations require endorsements from at least 20 individuals and can be submitted online or by mail.
The evaluation criteria are clear and multifaceted. According to EduChang, judges assess candidates based on four main factors: commitment to professional ethics (30 points), contributions to educational development (30 points), practical impact in the field (20 points), and creativity in teaching methods (20 points). This balanced approach ensures that both dedication and innovation are recognized, and that winners truly represent the best of Korea’s teaching profession.
After nominations are collected, a multi-stage review process begins. Preliminary screening narrows the field, followed by in-depth main reviews and final merit-based evaluations. The selection committee, composed of educational experts and ministry officials, works to ensure that the process remains transparent and credible. The final list of winners will be announced following the completion of all review stages, with the awards ceremony scheduled for May 2026.
The impact of the Korean Teachers' Award extends beyond individual recognition. As highlighted by EduChang, last year’s grand prize winner—a primary school teacher from Gwangju—donated their prize money to a local charity supporting the families of the May 18 Democratic Uprising, demonstrating the spirit of service and community that the award seeks to promote. Such gestures underscore the broader societal value of honoring educators, inspiring both peers and the public to recognize the essential role teachers play in shaping the nation’s future.
Since 2012, the Korean Teachers' Award and Congress have been jointly organized by the Ministry of Education and the Korean Teachers' Pension Association, underscoring a longstanding partnership dedicated to elevating the teaching profession. Over the past 15 years, these initiatives have not only celebrated individual excellence but have also contributed to ongoing discussions about improving teachers’ working conditions and professional status. According to KPI News, the support for livelihood and working conditions is expected to be fully implemented by May 2026, further cementing the commitment to supporting educators in practical terms.
The award’s emphasis on public participation is particularly noteworthy. By allowing students, parents, and community members to nominate teachers, the process reinforces the idea that teaching is a communal effort, and that the impact of great educators extends far beyond the classroom. As EToday explains, detailed nomination forms and guidelines are available on the official website, ensuring that anyone with a stake in education can help recognize those who have made a difference.
Looking ahead, the 15th Korean Teachers' Award promises not only to honor outstanding individuals but also to serve as a catalyst for broader conversations about education in Korea. The dual focus on celebrating excellence and addressing the realities of teachers’ lives reflects a holistic approach to educational reform—one that values both the achievements and the well-being of those at the heart of the system.
As the nomination period continues, anticipation is building for the announcement of this year’s winners and the stories of dedication and innovation they will bring to light. The upcoming awards ceremony in May 2026 will undoubtedly serve as a moment of pride for Korea’s educators, their students, and the communities they serve, reaffirming the vital role teachers play in shaping the nation’s present and future.