Which melody is commonly used for school bells in China, North Korea, and South Korea?

Westminster Chimes is the melody commonly used for school bells in China, North Korea, and South Korea.

School bells traditionally signal the start and end of the school day, class periods, and breaks. In the countries named, the familiar Westminster Chimes pattern is often adapted as the school signal, linking an internationally recognizable clock-chime sequence with the daily timetable.

The Westminster Chimes originated as a clock-chime sequence associated with the Palace of Westminster in London. The pattern is also widely known through clocks and public time signals, which helps explain why it works effectively as a repeated school announcement.

Modern schools do not always use a physical bell. Many use electronic tones, sirens, recorded chimes, or music played through an intercom. Schools serving deaf or hard-of-hearing students may use alternatives such as flashing lights, while teachers can provide visual or signed cues. Thus, “school bell” can describe the schedule signal rather than a literal metal bell.