This year, the total number of teaching staff will be reduced by 2,232. Elementary school teachers are expected to decrease by 1,289, and secondary school teachers by 1,700.
On the 10th, the Ministry of Education announced that the "Regulations on the Number of National Public Officials Assigned to Local Educational Administrative Agencies and Public Schools at All Levels," which includes teacher reductions, was publicly notified for legislation from January 31 to February 5 and will be enforced starting March 1. Accordingly, a total of 2,232 teachers will be reduced, including 1,289 in elementary schools and 1,700 in secondary schools.
This figure reflects 500 elementary school teachers temporarily added to support basic academic skills for vulnerable groups such as low-income families, and 1,307 elementary and secondary school teachers assigned to support teacher placement due to school establishment and closure.
Additionally, kindergarten teachers will remain unchanged, while special education teachers will increase by 520, and non-subject teachers (health, nutrition, librarians, professional counselors) will increase by 237.
The Ministry of Education stated, "In addition to the student-to-teacher ratio, we announced a mid- to long-term (2024?2027) teacher supply and demand plan in April 2023 that reflects various educational needs such as nurturing digital talents, ensuring basic academic skills, alleviating overcrowded classes in new towns, and supporting small schools in rural and fishing villages. We will continue to strive to secure an appropriate number of teachers in the future."
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