Lee Ju-ho Meets University Presidents: "Please Decide Tuition Fees Carefully"

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education Lee Ju-ho urged university presidents to exercise restraint in raising tuition fees, saying, "Considering the difficulties faced by the public and the serious national situation, as well as the burdens on students and parents, please make a comprehensive and careful decision."

Yonhap News

On the afternoon of the 22nd, at the '2025 Korea Council for University Education (KCUE) Regular General Meeting' held at the Westin Chosun Hotel in Jung-gu, Seoul, Minister Lee said, "We respect the intentions of each university in the process of deciding tuition fees," but made this request.

He also promised government support for universities that freeze tuition fees.

He stated, "The Ministry of Education has lowered budgetary barriers related to financial execution and expanded the flexibility and autonomy of universities in financial management," adding, "This year, we plan to further support universities that freeze tuition fees by increasing the personnel expense execution limit in the University Innovation Support Project from 25% to 30%."

Furthermore, he said, "Based on the changes and innovation achievements of universities so far, we will extend and expand the special account for higher lifelong education support, which is set to expire this year, continuously improve related regulations to diversify university revenues, and strengthen national-level financial support."

The 'RISE (Regional Innovation-centered University Support System),' a system for regional and university co-growth, will be fully launched this year. Minister Lee said, "According to the five-year RISE plans established with universities in 17 local governments, we will support universities' competitiveness so that they can become not only centers of education and research but also key drivers of regional innovation." In addition, plans include designating additional glocal universities and expanding the tentative 'Talent Pipeline Model,' a collaboration between universities and companies for graduate recruitment.

He also pledged to cooperate with the National Assembly to promptly enact the Private University Structural Improvement Act. Minister Lee said, "We will support private universities with growth potential, increase the chances of recovery for those facing critical situations, and provide assistance to universities where recovery is difficult."