Recent developments have illuminated the incredible potential of social media platforms, particularly Facebook, to ignite grassroots movements, even in remote and often overlooked areas, such as certain villages in the Middle East.1 An individual’s heartfelt call for recognition can swiftly evolve into a global chorus demanding the dismantling of oppressive regimes. This phenomenon highlights the transformative power of modern communication technologies, which amplify freedom of speech and empower the younger generation to express their opinions, unite, and carve their own paths toward dignity and self-determination.

When we turn our attention to internet infrastructure, it becomes clear that a significant connectivity gap exists within the United States, especially when contrasted with the robust access enjoyed by South Koreans. Current United States leadership has recognized this disparity, understanding that many citizens still lack the level of internet service readily available in South Korea. As reported in a recent New York Times article, South Korea is home to some of the fastest internet speeds worldwide, trailing just behind powerhouses like Hong Kong and Japan.2 South Korea stands as a beacon of the “early adopter” mentality, showcasing an impressive enthusiasm for technological advancements and innovation.

Nevertheless, despite its strengths in digital connectivity, South Korea is currently immersed in a complex and vibrant debate concerning its dental education system. Traditionally, South Korean dental schools have followed a 6-year curriculum, admitting high school graduates directly and awarding the Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. This established model has consistently produced graduates who are not only academically strong but also full of the energy and commitment needed to thrive in the demanding field of dentistry.

In 2002, the South Korean government launched an initiative aimed at transitioning dental schools to a 4-year curriculum, more aligned with Western education systems, while also mandating the admission of university graduates into dental programs. Advocates for this change argued that this alignment would elevate the intellectual rigor of the profession and cultivate a more skilled workforce. However, evidence gathered over the past decade suggests that this shift to a 4-4 system has unintentionally restricted the choices available to both students and educators, limiting their ability to select the educational pathways that best fit their needs.

In December 2010, faculty members from various dental schools across South Korea faced a significant crossroads: they had to choose between conforming to a government-mandated curriculum in exchange for essential funding and resources or maintaining control over their educational programs at the cost of financial support. In this pivotal context, it is crucial for the Korean Ministry of Education to respect the binding decisions made by each institution, irrespective of their chosen curricular pathways. If authorities do not take appropriate measures to support established educational frameworks, we may once again find ourselves in a situation where passionate calls for respect and independence resonate strongly—reviving the powerful sentiment of “Va, pensiero, sull’ali dorate” in the near future.3 Together, let’s advocate for a future where education thrives in a nurturing and autonomous environment.

https://doi.org/10.5051/jpis.2011.41.1.1