Jo Ok-hyun, Jeonnam Provincial Assembly Member, "Expansion of Support for Borderline Intellectual Functioning"

Nation's First Implementation of 'Borderline Intellectual Support'

Jo Ok-hyun, a member of the Jeonnam Provincial Council (Democratic Party, Mokpo 2), visited an elementary school in the Mokpo area on the 14th to observe the diagnostic testing site for students with borderline intelligence and to listen to the opinions of related personnel.

Last year, during the review of the 2024 first supplementary budget for the Jeonnam Provincial Education Special Account, Councilor Jo urged timely measures and response plans for students with borderline disabilities. He also secured a budget for support measures at the Jeonnam Provincial Office of Education level.

Jo Ok-hyun, a member of the Jeonnam Provincial Assembly, visited an elementary school in the Mokpo area to observe the diagnostic testing site for students with borderline intelligence and gathered opinions. Photo by Jeonnam Provincial Assembly

'Borderline intelligence' refers to an intelligence quotient (IQ) of 71 to 84, estimated to account for about 13.6% of the total population. These individuals have lower cognitive functions and face difficulties in academic work but do not qualify as intellectually disabled (IQ 70 or below), placing them in a policy blind spot where they are excluded from various government supports.

This year, the Provincial Office of Education conducted a pilot 'In-depth Diagnostic Test for Students with Borderline Intelligence' targeting all first-grade elementary students in the Mokpo area who experience learning difficulties. From next year, full support plans will be implemented for all elementary students in the Jeonnam region.

Councilor Jo stated, "If students with borderline intelligence are identified early and receive appropriate treatment and support, they can grow into healthy members of society," and urged, "Please support all students in Jeonnam to be tested for borderline intelligence at the appropriate time so they can receive systematic and customized education."

He also promised, "I will carefully monitor educational blind spots so that all students in Jeonnam can realize their dreams and prepare for a happy future," adding, "Starting with this survey, I will continue to support policies and budgets continuously."