A tragic incident in which a kindergarten teacher in Bucheon, South Korea, died after working while suffering from the flu has sparked outrage and calls for systemic reforms from the Korean Federation of Teachers' Associations. The teacher, identified only as Mr. A, worked for three days before her condition worsened, leading to hospitalization in an intensive care unit where she ultimately lost her life. This incident has raised serious concerns about the work culture within the education sector, where teachers often feel compelled to report to work even when ill due to a perceived stigma against taking sick leave.

The regional division of the teachers' union asserted that the death was a clear indication of "structural murder," reflecting a broader issue within the educational environment where teachers face significant pressure not to take time off for illness. This culture was highlighted in the union's statement, which pointed out that many teachers are unable to secure sick leave, with some administrators reportedly rejecting requests for sick leave approvals. Such circumstances not only jeopardize the well-being of educators but can also lead to dire consequences as seen in this heartbreaking case.

In response to this incident, the teachers’ union has called on the Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education to implement immediate actions to ensure the safety and well-being of teaching staff. They have proposed measures such as creating a pool of substitute teachers to ensure sick educators can take necessary leave without fear of repercussions, mandatory staffing of substitute teachers by school administrators when needed, and banning the denial of sick leave based on subjective judgments by administrators. The organization is advocating for a recognition of the incident as an occupational hazard rather than a personal health issue, pushing the conversation toward necessary systemic change.