This study aims to examine the current status and challenges in the operation of dance curricula in arts high schools under the 2022 revised national curriculum, and to explore directions for improvement. To this end,we conducted in-depth interviews with 14 dance teachers The analysis yielded three main categories perceptions of the dance curriculum, challenges in dance education, and strategies for improvement as well as eleven subcategories and 21 key concepts. The findings identified issues such as a lack of autonomy in curriculum implementation, an entrance-exam-oriented educational structure, limited teacher expertise, and a gap between policy and practice. In response, the study suggests key the following developmental directions: establishing the identity of the dance curriculum, adopting a holistic educational approach, strengthening teacher professionalism, expanding expert participation, and reinforcing the status of dance as an independent subject. This research seeks to provide foundational insights to position dance education as an independent discipline that supports students’ holistic growth.