Korea selects 43 regions for education reform drive amid population decline

What happened: South Korea's Education Ministry selected 43 regions for its Education Innovation Leading Regions initiative, chosen from 130 applicants among 141 eligible regions, to improve small schools and narrow educational disparities. Key numbers: 43 of 130 applicant Why it matters: The ministry says declining birthrates reduce enrollment and threaten the sustainability of schools in smaller communities. Minister Choi Kyo-jin said the government will link regional innovation models with universities' talent policies to create a cycle where students contribute to regional development.

South Korea's Education Ministry selected 43 regions for its Education Innovation Leading Regions initiative, chosen from 130 applicants among 141 eligible regions, to improve small schools and narrow educational disparities.

The ministry says declining birthrates reduce enrollment and threaten the sustainability of schools in smaller communities. Minister Choi Kyo-jin said the government will link regional innovation models with universities' talent policies to create a cycle where students contribute to regional development.