Leading Korean Education Beyond Borders

Jinsu Shin(Mr.), Principal of Tianjin Korean International School (China). With 18 years of teaching experience in Korean elementary schools, he has also served as an education supervisor at the Chungnam Office of Education, curriculum researcher at the Ministry of Education, and later as vice principal and principal. Most recently, he led national curriculum and textbook policy as Director of Curriculum Policy at the Ministry of Education.

At the intersection of Korean national education and global citizenship lies the unique

realm of Korean international schools abroad. Principal Jinsu Shin, who currently leads

Tianjin Korean International School (KIST) in China, embodies this convergence. With

more than two decades of experience in Korea’s public education system and policymaking, his transition to international education during the COVID-19 pandemic offered both challenge and purpose.

After a distinguished career in Korean public education and curriculum policymaking,

Principal Shin was drawn to the challenge of leading an international school. His

motivation stemmed from a long-held aspiration to contribute globally while maintaining a strong educational foundation rooted in Korea.

Operating a K–12 institution in China during the COVID-19 pandemic posed operational

and pedagogical challenges. Nevertheless, the holistic development of students—through academics, cultural programs, and student-led clubs—offered deep professional fulfillment.

He emphasized the need for educational leaders to possess both subject-matter

expertise and intercultural literacy. A positive mindset and adaptive leadership are critical in overseas roles where institutional support may be limited.

Opportunities in overseas education include teaching, leadership roles, educational

diplomacy, and research. Shin aims to further contribute through academic work on

Korean international education post-assignment. Advisory to Youth: "Stay optimistic. Let challenges shape your growth, and remember that consistent effort today builds the foundation for tomorrow’s dreams."

- The Detailed Interview -

#1. What motivated you to pursue a career in international development, and how

did your journey begin?

Shin: I had long harbored an aspiration to teach or lead a school in an overseas Korean

educational institution. That opportunity arose when I came across a recruitment notice

for a principal position at KIST. I applied, passed both the document review and

interviews, and was officially dispatched to Tianjin. As you mentioned, my arrival in September 2022 came amid lingering COVID-19 restrictions. After enduring a 10-day quarantine upon arrival, I began my work under difficult circumstances. The school remained physically closed, and all classes and administrative tasks were conducted remotely. Thankfully, by January 2023, the situation improved, and we were able to resume in-person operations with the start of the new academic year. That was an immense relief and a turning point for everyone at our school.

#2. What do you find most rewarding and most challenging about your work in this

field?

Shin: Our school serves students from kindergarten through high school, creating an

educational environment that differs significantly from that of schools in Korea. Each day is filled with diverse responsibilities, challenges, and ultimately, meaningful impact. A few particularly rewarding aspects include: Witnessing students grow into courteous and dignified individuals.

Observing their participation in activities such as debate competitions, research projects, sports festivals, and creative clubs like dance and band—along with their engagement in self-directed learning.

Seeing students from grades 5 through 12 deepen their understanding of both Korean

and Chinese history and culture through our annual themed learning programs.

All of these outcomes are only possible through the tireless collaboration of our faculty

and staff. Despite the challenges, it is profoundly gratifying to know our efforts are

making a difference in the lives of our students.

#3. Why did you choose this field over other career paths, and what continues to

motivate you in your work?

Shin: Every job comes with its challenges, whether in Korea or abroad. The key is not to

seek ease but to embrace meaningful responsibility. Korean international schools abroad often operate with less direct support from the Korean government, which means principals must assume a great deal of operational responsibility.

Nevertheless, the sense of pride and purpose that comes from helping Korean students

grow and thrive in a foreign context—especially in a country as complex and significant

as China—is immensely rewarding.

#4. Would you recommend this career to someone interested in global issues? If so,

what do you think are the most essential qualities or skills for success?

Shin: Absolutely. Working at a Korean international school offers a deeper sense of

purpose and pride than one might expect from a traditional teaching career in Korea.

To thrive in this field, I believe the following are essential: A positive and proactive mindset. Overseas roles can be more demanding, and those with international travel or short-term study abroad experience often adapt better. An optimistic outlook and a willingness to embrace new challenges are crucial.

Educational expertise and cultural literacy. Naturally, a solid foundation in pedagogy and

school leadership is important. But equally vital is an understanding of the host country’s history and culture. This knowledge helps educators integrate more smoothly into local life and work effectively in a globalized environment.

#5. What do you see as the future career prospects or evolving pathways in

international development, and how do you plan to grow professionally?

Shin: Opportunities in this field are diverse. One can work as a teacher, vice principal,

principal, staff member at Korean schools abroad, or even take on roles such as

education attaché, researcher, or university professor in the host country. These roles

require a strong foundation in educational professionalism developed in Korea.

My current term at Tianjin Korean International School spans three years, after which I

am expected to return to Korea. However, I hope to continue contributing to this field

through research or academic endeavors related to Korean international education.

#6. Could you share a memorable or meaningful episode from your experience?

Shin: Of my three-year term, two years and seven months have passed. The first year was undoubtedly challenging as I adapted to a new environment and school. Now, as I

approach the end of my term, I feel immense gratitude for my fellow educators, the

Korean community in Tianjin, and of course, the students who have made this journey

worthwhile.

#7. Have you faced any unique or particularly difficult challenges in your career?

Shin: Tianjin’s Korean expatriate population and student enrollment have been gradually

decreasing. I sincerely hope that stronger political and economic ties between Korea and China will create better conditions for Koreans to live, work, and study here, revitalizing our school and community.

#8. What advice would you give to someone who dreams of working in this field?

Shin: First, cultivate a positive mindset. Even repeated failures and frustrations can

ultimately serve as stepping stones to success. Think of challenges as preparation for

something greater. Second, focus on the present. Dreaming about the future is important, but it is equally important to be diligent in your current studies or tasks.

Dreams alone won’t take you far—it is consistent, sincere effort that turns dreams into

reality.

Minji