South Korean regions prioritize educational quality over school consolidation

Local governments in South Korea are holding public discussions to shape educational innovation policies in response to declining student populations. In Haenam, a public hearing was held to discuss the ‘Haenam-style Educational Innovation Leading Region’ project. While the project includes the potential consolidation of small schools, participants emphasized that the priority should be the quality of education rather than mere administrative restructuring. Stakeholders, including parents and teachers, called for detailed plans regarding teacher numbers, elective subjects, and transportation before proceeding with school mergers.

Similarly, Yeoncheon County is working with the Yeoncheon Education Support Center to develop a customized educational policy. Following surveys and regional meetings, officials noted that while 90% of residents support intensive investment in education, there is a significant need for better basic academic support and cultural infrastructure. Rather than focusing on reducing school sizes, Yeoncheon aims to leverage the strengths of small schools—such as customized learning and close teacher-student relationships—while using joint curricula and community links to provide broader career and experiential opportunities.