South Korean local governments adjust education and school meal budgets

Local governments in South Korea are implementing significant changes to school-related funding. In Yongsan District, Seoul, authorities are investing 758.4 million won into 25 projects across 20 elementary, middle, and high schools. This initiative focuses on improving school environments, repairing aging facilities, and enhancing digital education infrastructure, including the installation of electronic boards and AI-ready equipment.

In contrast, Sejong City has announced a substantial reduction in its school meal budget for the coming year. Due to fiscal constraints, the city will cut its support for free school meals by 15.9 billion won compared to the current year, reducing its contribution to 15.7% of the total cost. Additionally, funding for the purchase of eco-friendly agricultural products will be reduced from 4.4 billion won to 2 billion won. Sejong officials noted that while these cuts are set for next year, the budget sharing ratio will be re-evaluated in 2028 based on the city's financial situation.