The ways in which national educational systems promoted learning and schooling were analyzed through the discipline of comparative education. This study examined the educational systems of South Korea and the Philippines, focusing on curriculum, teaching methodology, assessment practices, and physical education. Using a qualitative comparative approach based on internship experience and current literature, it identified major structural and philosophical differences between the two countries. South Korea operated a centralized, research-based system with strong specialization at the post-secondary level in physical education and sports science, whereas the Philippines implemented K–12 reforms that created a more flexible and accessible system. Although both nations recognized education as critical for national development, they differed in curriculum design, student assessment, and the preparation of physical educators. These differences highlighted opportunities for cross-national learning, particularly in developing a research-based physical education system in the Philippines. All data were obtained from publicly available sources, with no confidential or personally identifiable information included.