* The Present Legal System concerning Catholic Schools in Korea and Proposals for Future Development

The Federation of Catholic Educational Foundations in Korea (President: Most Rev. Matthias Ri Iong-hoon, Auxiliary Bishop of Suwon) has recently published a research report on the identity of Catholic schools, the present situation and related laws. The report is entitled The Present Legal System concerning Catholic Schools in Korea and Proposals for Future Development.

This research report with seven parts deals with the identity of Catholic schools through a historical overview of the relationship between the Church and schools and through a consideration of laws related to religions and private schools.

Then it assesses the present situation of private schools established by religious foundations, especially by the Catholic Church, and the related laws and judicial precedents in Korea through analyses of related laws and policies of Germany, the USA, and Japan. It also analyzes issues relevant to the subjects in private schools of religious foundations, such as religious education in schools. An institutional and legal proposal is presented.

This report is based on the Charter of Catholic School Education in Korea published by the Committee on Education of the CBCK in 2006, and on the research carried out in October 2007, in order to solidify the legal and institutional basis in society for proper Catholic education.

In a message upon publication, Bishop Ri said, "The state and the Church should continue to discuss and look for a harmonious solution to the educational issues. Thus we will be able to find and open a way to develop education in Korea both in private schools and public schools."