Wanju County Selected for Ministry of the Interior and Safety's "Gohyang Olrae Public Contest Project"

Securing 1 Billion KRW in Special Grants
Anticipation for Revitalizing Rural Study Abroad Programs

Wanju County in North Jeolla Province announced on May 9 that it has been selected for the "Gohyang Olrae Public Contest Project" organized by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, securing a special grant of 1 billion KRW.

The "Gohyang Olrae Public Contest Project" aims to revitalize the local circular economy by attracting a resident population that stays for extended periods, rather than just permanent residents, in response to rapidly changing policy environments such as the risk of local extinction and increased population mobility. Wanju County was ultimately selected in the "Local Study Abroad" category, one of five project types.

Wanju County Office building exterior. Provided by Wanju County

The Local Study Abroad program is an educational model in which students living in urban areas transfer to rural schools for a certain period (at least six months), experiencing life in nature and participating in local education, culture, and community. Its distinguishing feature is its focus on building integrated relationships with the local community, going beyond simple school transfers or short-term experiences.

The county is currently operating the Unju Rural Study Abroad Center through private consignment, and the center has established itself as the only rural study abroad facility in the country where middle school students reside.

With the support of 1 billion KRW in national funds, the county plans to secure an additional 1 billion KRW in local funds to actively promote the creation of additional residential spaces for local study abroad, develop stay-type programs to attract a resident population, and establish a model of mutual growth with the local community.

County Governor Yoo Heetae stated, "We expect this selection to further vitalize the Wanju-style rural study abroad program," and added, "We will continue to support its development as a study abroad model where children, families, and the local community can grow together."