South Korean Students Embrace AI as a Study Tool, Government Expands Education Initiatives
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — Nearly half of South Korean high school students are regularly using artificial intelligence to aid their studies, according to a recent survey, as the government ramps up efforts to integrate AI education into public schools nationwide. The trend highlights a growing acceptance of AI not as a shortcut to answers, but as a dynamic learning resource.
The survey, conducted by education company Jinaksa among 3,525 high school students, found that 47.7% utilize AI for studying at least once a week. Of those, over a quarter – 25.2% – engage with AI learning tools one or two times weekly, while 14.4% use them three or more times each week. Just over 22% reported never using AI for academic purposes.
Students are primarily leveraging AI to deepen their understanding of complex topics. Nearly half (49.7%) reported using AI to request explanations of unfamiliar concepts. Other popular applications include assistance with problem-solving (29%), summarizing materials (27.9%), and receiving feedback on their work (17.4%).
“Students are not simply using AI to complete assignments,” explained Woo Yeon-cheol, director of the admissions strategy research institute at Jinaksa. “They are using it to ask questions about concepts they do not understand and to check the direction of problem solving.” He described AI as a form of “digital tutoring,” offering immediate clarification and support.
The growing student adoption of AI coincides with a significant government investment in AI education. The Ministry of Education has already designated 1,141 elementary, middle, and high schools as “AI focus schools,” collaborating with 17 regional education offices. These schools are integrating AI lessons across various subjects and developing interdisciplinary programs. The ministry plans to expand this initiative to 1,500 schools by 2027 and 2,000 by 2028.
Beyond curriculum integration, the “AI focus schools” will prioritize ethics education, ensuring students understand the responsible use of AI technologies. Hands-on learning programs and AI clubs will also be encouraged.
This push towards AI literacy comes as South Korea aims to establish itself as a global leader in artificial intelligence. Earlier this year, the country announced a $1.2 billion investment to teach AI skills from elementary school through the workplace, signaling a national commitment to building a comprehensive AI talent pipeline.
The Jinaksa survey suggests students are already ahead of the curve, proactively embracing AI as a valuable learning companion. As Woo noted, students are adapting quickly to AI-driven learning environments even outside of formal schooling.
Reported by Asia Today; translated by United Press International (UPI).
