Bahk Eun-ji has been with The Korea Times since 2012, building a career across multiple desks. She began at the Business Desk, where she conducted in-depth interviews with key figures in Korea's corporate world. Later, she moved to the Politics & City Desk, focusing on education policy and social affairs. She later served as team leader of the digital content team, leading curation efforts on the newspaper’s homepage and reshaping print stories for social media audiences to enhance digital reach. Now back on the Politics Desk, she covers the National Assembly and the Ministry of National Defense, with a renewed focus on political developments.
Better late than never: 71-year-old tackles first grade
Kim Young-ja / Courtesy of Deokdo Elementary School
By Bahk Eun-ji
At an age when most people are settling into retirement, 71-year-old Kim Young-ja has embarked on a different journey — starting first grade.
Kim recently began her first year at Deokdo Elementary School in Yangju, Gyeonggi Province — a lifelong dream finally realized after decades of being denied the chance due to poverty and social stigma.
As a child, Kim was unable to attend school because of financial hardship and the widespread belief in her rural community that education was unnecessary for girls.
“I always envied children in school uniforms, carrying their books,” she said. “Now, I finally get to be one of them.”
Her enrollment marks the first time in the school’s history that someone of her age has joined as a full-time student. Although there were initial concerns about her physical stamina and ability to adjust to life among much younger classmates, school officials unanimously supported her admission, commending her unwavering determination and the inspiration she brings to the classroom. Teachers have made small adjustments to help her settle in, and her fellow students have warmly embraced her.
Every morning, Kim arrives 30 minutes early to look at picture books and practice reading. With support from her teachers and classmates, she has started reading simple words and actively takes part in all school activities — from field trips to lunchroom conversations.
“My dream was to study, and now I can,” Kim said. “I’m grateful to the teachers and children who welcome me like family.”
To ease her transition, Deokdo Elementary School has created a personalized learning environment for her and is promoting a culture of mutual respect and intergenerational connection among students.
“Kim is a role model not just for our students, but for the entire school community,” said Seo Kyung-hee, a principal of the school. “Her presence helps us build a school where learning has no age limit.”
Kim’s three children, all graduates of the same school, are proud of their mother’s courage. They helped her through the enrollment process, calling it “a dream come true for the entire family.” They continue to support her by reviewing homework together and encouraging her to keep going, especially on difficult days.
“With every page I turn in my textbooks, I am not just learning to read — I am writing a new chapter of my life,” she said.