South Korean Christian Students Report Worldview Conflicts Between School and Church

A recent study by the Pastoral Data Research Institute (PDRI) reveals that 59% of church-attending middle and high school students in South Korea experience contradictions between their school curriculum and church teachings. The findings, published in the "Korean Church Next Generation Trends 2026" report, highlight that science education—specifically regarding evolution and the origins of the universe—is the primary source of this tension, cited by 60% of respondents. Other areas of conflict include ethics, sexuality, politics, and historical interpretation.

Despite these challenges, the research indicates that only 23% of churches offer regular instruction on biblical values to students and their families. PDRI suggests this lack of consistent guidance leaves many young people struggling to reconcile their faith with academic content. When faced with these discrepancies, students reported varied responses, including suspending judgment or attempting to hold both perspectives simultaneously. The institute concluded that current efforts to shape the worldview of the next generation remain insufficient, noting that many students also struggle with theological questions regarding the existence of suffering and the practical application of biblical commands.