The Current Status and Challenges of Religious Education under the 2022 Revised National Curriculum: Focusing on a Buddhist-Affiliated High School

ABSTRACT

[Objective] This study aims to examine the practical challenges faced in organizing and implementing the religious subject “Life and Religions” at a Buddhist-affiliated high school under the 2022 Revised National Curriculum, which will be fully applied starting in the 2025 academic year.[Contents] Focusing on the curriculum guidelines from the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education and the case of G High School, this study analyzes the course schedule, credit allocation, teacher assignment, and textbook issues. It also reviews how the semester-based system and high school credit program impact the delivery of religious education.[Conclusions] The study finds that conflicts between multiple course offering rules and the semester system hinder the stable operation of religious subjects. The undervaluation of religious education may also affect student engagement and teacher morale. It concludes that expanding curriculum options and securing approved textbooks are essential, and highlights the need for ongoing dialogue and policy engagement to ensure the continued contribution of religious education to society.