Investing 1.28 Billion Won...Full Support for Vulnerable Students
Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province announced that in 2026 it will fully implement the "Student Equestrian Experience Support Project" to promote the physical and mental health of students in the province and to expand the base of the equestrian population, investing a total of 1.28 billion won.
Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province will fully launch the "Student Horseback Riding Experience Support Project" to promote students' physical and mental health and to expand participation in horseback riding. Photo by Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province
The Student Equestrian Experience Support Project provides each student with support for 10 riding sessions, worth a total of 320,000 won (including the self-payment portion), and students can participate up to twice a year. In particular, students from vulnerable groups, such as low-income households and students with disabilities, will be given the opportunity to participate completely free of charge with no self-payment, thereby enhancing equity in access to the program.
To enhance the systematic operation and efficiency of the project, Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province plans to use the computerized system "Horspia" to centrally manage the entire process, including application submission, selection of participants, and attendance management via QR codes. In addition, to help students improve their skills step by step, the province will link participation in the "Riding Skill Certification System" examinations to the program, boosting their sense of achievement and encouraging continued participation.
To ensure student safety, all participating equestrian facilities will be required to take out business liability insurance or indemnity insurance and to expand the scope of coverage. The province will also strengthen inspections of safety management at facilities to create a safe environment for the riding experience.
Riding is an exercise that uses the entire body’s muscles and helps with posture correction and improving basic physical strength. It is also expected to provide emotional stability, such as relieving stress, enhancing concentration, and boosting self-esteem, through bonding with horses. The province plans to support students so that they can grow in a balanced way both physically and emotionally through basic training programs.
Students or parents who wish to participate in the student riding experience can apply through Horspia, the horse industry information portal site, and selected students will take part in the program at riding clubs within the province.
The Director General of the Department of Agro-Bio and Livestock Industry of Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province said, "We hope that the riding experience will invigorate students in their daily lives and serve as nourishment for them to grow up healthy," adding, "We will continue to develop the riding experience programs with safety as our top priority."
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