[ speaking in foreign language ] >> we visited the cho family on a typical day for their son, sung-do. he gets up every day at 6:00 a.m. jumps rope as the sun comes up. then eats a massive breakfast his mother has prepared. she says a healthy meal helps his concentration. [ speaking in foreign language ] >> sung do's studies are especially important this year, because next november he'll take an all-important college entrance exam. it's the ultimate test in a particularly test-driven education system. >> since the family is really expecting a lot from me and supporting me a lot, i think i have to return their favor. >> sung-do goes to school from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on most days, much longer hours than most american students. there are about 205 school days in south korea's calendar, 25 more than the typical u.s. schedule.