The purpose of this study is to explore the South Korean art education system in the context of history, culture and politics. This thesis provides further explanation on how history has impacted the South Korean art education system and affects current curriculum, theories and practices. Four highly qualified educators and professors from South Korea were interviewed to collect date relating to current practices in South Korean art education. The study focuses on Korean history, which affected the education policies, social perspective, art education theories and curriculum. This study also highlights the relationship of western art education theories and the traditional Korean theories. Understanding culture through history and policies can provide in-depth perspective on why and how South Korean art education has evolved to what it is today. This information may assist art teachers as they modify lessons to fit the needs of students who are immigrating from South Korea.