Tuition Ending Explained: A film based on the memoir of a 4th grade student who received the grand prize in a writing contest sponsored by Gyeongseong Daily. Directed by Baek Un-haeng, this 1940 drama film stars Kenji Susukida (Mr. Tashiro), alongside Jeong Chang-jo as Wu Yeong-dal, Bok Hye-suk as Grandmother, Kim Han as Father. With a 6/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.

What Happens at the End of Tuition?

A film based on the memoir of a 4th grade student who received the grand prize in a writing contest sponsored by Gyeongseong Daily. A boy, whose parents sell brass spoons on the street while his grandmother is sick in bed, never has money for his tuition. Fortunately, his aunt offers to pay for his tuition and his classmates raising funds for him. To top it all off, his parents return a few days later to promise him that they will pay for his tuition the next time.

Baek Un-haeng's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Kenji Susukida (Mr. Tashiro)'s journey. A boy, whose parents sell brass spoons on the street while his grandmother is sick in bed, never has money for his tuition.

How Does Kenji Susukida (Mr. Tashiro)'s Story End?

  • Kenji Susukida: Kenji Susukida's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
  • Jeong Chang-jo (Wu Yeong-dal): Jeong Chang-jo's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
  • Bok Hye-suk (Grandmother): Bok Hye-suk's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

Is Tuition Based on a True Story?

Yes — Tuition draws from real events. The ending reflects documented outcomes, though Baek Un-haeng has taken creative liberties in dramatizing specific scenes for cinematic impact.

What Does the Ending of Tuition Mean?

Tuition's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Kenji Susukida may feel rushed. Baek Un-haeng's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.