South Korea Elementary School Grade 1 Physical Education Curriculum

Pleasant Life (1st & 2nd Grade)

In South Korea, 1st and 2nd grade students do not have dedicated Physical Education (PE) classes. Instead, they participate in an integrated subject called "Pleasant Life." This subject combines music, art, and physical education activities. "Pleasant Life" is allocated six hours per week. The government planned to increase the dedicated physical education hours for grades 1 and 2 from 80 to 144 hours by 2025. This change aims to provide more focused physical activity and development for younger students. "Pleasant Life" has been a part of the curriculum for the past 40 years.

Physical Education (3rd-6th Grade)

From 3rd to 6th grade, Physical Education becomes a standalone, mandatory subject. The curriculum emphasizes fundamental movement skills and health-related fitness. Research has explored the connection between these skills and overall fitness in elementary school students. Studies have also examined teachers' beliefs and practices in PE within South Korean elementary schools. The Korean National Curriculum for Physical Education (KNCPE) guides the curriculum policies and practices for PE in the country.