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South Korea maintains a single education system, although two distinct tracks, academic and vocational, exist. Traditionally, vocational education has prepared students for specific entry-level jobs, that is, education for work. Today, rapid and continual change positions Korean vocational and technical education at a crossroad. To overcome challenges, a critical national review of vocational education is required. A contemporary system should emphasize academics in applied settings and prepare students for postsecondary education and work, that is education through work. We suggest several policy recommendations: (a) a single track secondary system; (b) seamless transitions; (c) aligning educational content with the College Scholastic Ability Test; (d) increasing academic rigor and remedial courses for underprepared students; and (e) supporting career development and planning.