Rewards for reporting illegal hagwon operations jump tenfold to W2m

South Korea's Education Ministry has increased the rewards for reporting illegal private education services, such as unregistered private academies (hagwons) and illegal tutoring. People who report an unregistered academy can now receive up to 2 million won, which is ten times higher than the previous maximum reward of 200,000 won.

Rewards for reporting other violations have also increased. Reports of academies charging more than their approved tuition fees or operating beyond permitted hours can now earn up to 1 million won, compared with the previous maximum of 100,000 won. These higher rewards apply only to reports submitted from Thursday onward.

The ministry has also made the reporting process easier. People can now apply for the reward at the same time they submit their report through the government's online reporting center. The platform has been integrated into the ministry's website and supports convenient login options such as Naver and Kakao. Officials said the changes are intended to strengthen public oversight and reduce illegal practices in private education.

Edited using generative AI tools. 
Source : https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10811159

Comprehension

What is the new maximum reward for reporting an unregistered private academy?
What other violations can people report for a reward?
When did the increased reward system take effect?
How has the reporting process become more convenient?
Why did the Education Ministry introduce these changes?

Discussion

Do you think offering cash rewards is an effective way to encourage people to report illegal activities? Why or why not?
Should governments provide rewards for reporting other types of violations? Give examples.
Why do you think some private academies operate without registration?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of private academies?
Should private tutoring be more strictly regulated? Explain your opinion.
Would you report an illegal business if there were no financial reward? Why or why not?
How important is public participation in enforcing laws?
What improvements would you suggest for your country's education system?

Vocabulary

reward – money or something valuable given for doing something helpful
unregistered – not officially recorded or approved
academy – a private school or learning center
violation – an action that breaks a law or rule
tuition – the money paid for education or classes
submit – to officially send or give something
authentication – the process of verifying a person's identity
oversight – supervision to ensure rules are followed