Up to 760,000 Won in Educational Benefits for Low-Income Students in Gwangju

Average Educational Benefits Increased by 5% This Year
Expanded Support for After-School Tuition Vouchers and PCs
School Principal Recommendation Rate Raised to 20%

Low-income elementary, middle, and high school students in the Gwangju region will receive up to 760,000 won in educational benefits this year. The program aims to reduce the financial burden on parents and ensure educational opportunities for students.

Gwangju Office of Education building.

The Gwangju Office of Education announced on the 27th that it will increase the educational benefit provided to students from households earning 50% or less of the median income by an average of 5% compared to last year. As a result, elementary school students will receive 487,000 won, middle school students 679,000 won, and high school students 768,000 won, all provided once per year.

Educational benefits are provided under the National Basic Living Security Act. Applications can be submitted until February next year either by visiting an administrative welfare center or through the online portal Bokjiro. Existing recipients will continue to receive support without needing to reapply. The benefits are provided in the form of credit or debit card points for eligible recipients.

In addition, support will be provided for "student educational expenses," which include after-school free tuition vouchers and educational informatization subsidies. Starting this year, the proportion of students recommended by school principals will be increased from 10% to 20%, allowing more students to benefit from the program. First-grade elementary school students will receive free tuition vouchers of up to 720,000 won regardless of household income.

The educational informatization subsidy provides PCs and a monthly internet fee of 19,250 won for students receiving livelihood or medical benefits. On April 24, the Gwangju Office of Education held a training session for staff responsible for educational benefits and student educational expenses, providing guidance on changes to the system and review procedures.

Superintendent Lee Jeongseon stated, "We will implement robust educational welfare policies to ensure that not a single child is left behind in Gwangju education."