The purpose of this study is to empirically analyze the reality of the role perceived by Korean school principals in the field and the current status of what they realize. To achieve this research goal, 19 research participants who experienced the post of school principal at secondary schools in Seoul were recommended and recruited, and data were collected and analyzed through in-depth interviews. The research results revealed in this study are as follows. First, ‘difference from other positions and ‘change over time were derived as the main characteristics of the school principal s role perception. In particular, the perception of role change was observed in the context of the domestic teaching promotion system. Second, it turned out that the school principal not only realizes the role he or she perceived in his or her first term, but also plays a role that transcends it in the field. Representatively, “Future society”, “Teacher professional development”, “Mentoring”, “Crisis management”, and “Culture creation in school” were found to be roles that were not perceived as novice principals. The above research results suggest that practical efforts are needed to support the adaptation of the school principal position in Korea. Accordingly, in this study, it was discussed that the establishment of an education and training program for principals should reflect the reality of what principals accept and implement in the field regarding their roles. In addition, It was discussed that efforts to revise and supplement the qualification requirements of the school principal are required in a direction consistent with the circumstances of the field.