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The debate centers on how much the "new" textbooks focus on the perspective of South Korean society during the colonial period. A controversial element is the use of terms like “freedom democracy” to describe the foundation for modern-day South Korea. These changes have sparked fierce discussion about whether they accurately reflect historical realities or simply cater to specific political agendas.

One particular point of contention centers around the handling of the “comfort women” issue during World War II. The revised textbooks take a less direct approach, instead opting for more neutral language like "women were subject to hardship." This decision has drawn criticism from others who feel it fails to adequately address the atrocities committed against these women.

The debate also extends to the portrayal of South Korean President Lee Chang-wook and his legacy. The textbooks have been criticized for their ambiguous handling of this historical figure and how they portray him during the colonial period. A critical aspect is that some history teachers have expressed concern that these changes will lead students down a path of biased interpretations, potentially hindering their understanding of true historical events.

These controversies highlight a more fundamental issue: the ongoing tension between academic freedom and political influence in South Korea's education system. The debate continues to raise questions about how best to teach history in a way that is both accurate and accessible to students in light of evolving societal views.