Mayor Shin Sangjin: "Financial Support for Science-Focused Schools...Backing the Nurturing of Scientific Talent"

Seongnam City Newly Designates Science-Focused High Schools
Wirye Hanbit High School and Bundang High School to Receive 50 Million Won Each in Support

On July 23, Seongnam City (Mayor Shin Sangjin) announced that it will provide 50 million won in support to each of Wirye Hanbit High School and Bundang High School, which have been newly designated as "Science-Focused Schools for the 2026 Academic Year" by the Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education.

Status of Designation of Science-Focused Schools in Seongnam City. Provided by Seongnam City

Currently, out of the 50 science-focused schools in Gyeonggi Province, six are operating in Seongnam City, the highest number among local governments in the province. With these new designations, the total number of science-focused high schools in Seongnam has increased to eight.

The newly designated science-focused schools are Wirye Hanbit High School and Bundang High School.

Prior to this designation, Seongnam City had already pledged financial support for the newly designated schools, even before the application process began.

This proactive financial support decision appears to have had a positive impact during the evaluation process, resulting in the successful designation of two new schools.

Science-focused schools operate curricula that emphasize science and mathematics, with the goal of nurturing future-oriented science talents who possess creativity and an integrative mindset.

In particular, these schools focus on strengthening students' scientific abilities through inquiry-based classes, student-led research projects, and the establishment of advanced science laboratories.

Seongnam City will provide an initial budget of 50 million won to each of the two newly designated schools.

Recognizing the significant challenges faced by newly designated schools in establishing an initial educational foundation, the city plans to concentrate its 2026 budget on the purchase of science laboratory equipment and supplies. This will help ensure stable and effective operation of educational programs and bring about tangible improvements to the educational environment at these schools.

Through these efforts, students will be supported in discovering their interest and aptitude for science from the early stages of the curriculum, enabling a natural connection to careers in science and engineering fields.

Mayor Shin Sangjin of Seongnam City stated, "The role of local governments is more important than ever in nurturing local talents who will lead the future science and technology society," and added, "By providing financial support to science-focused schools, we will strengthen the foundation of science education in the region and actively support Seongnam in establishing itself as a central city for nurturing scientific talent."

Seongnam City plans to continue its administrative and financial efforts to expand the base of science education and diversify career paths by cooperating with the local community.