South Korea’s ambitious plan to integrate AI into its education system has faced a significant setback, with the government announcing a delay in implementing AI-powered digital textbooks until 2025. The initiative, originally scheduled for 2024, aimed to revolutionize learning by incorporating AI technology across various subjects. The postponement reflects broader concerns about the impact of AI on education and future employment prospects. Education officials cited the need for more thorough preparation and teacher training as primary reasons for the delay. The digital textbooks were designed to provide personalized learning experiences, adapting to individual student needs and learning speeds. However, concerns emerged about potential technological disparities among students and the readiness of educators to effectively implement these tools. The rollback also highlights the complex balance between embracing technological innovation and maintaining traditional educational values. Critics worried about over-reliance on AI potentially affecting critical thinking skills and human interaction in learning environments. The decision has sparked discussions about the appropriate pace of technological integration in education systems globally. Despite the delay, South Korea remains committed to modernizing its education system with AI technology, but is taking a more measured approach to ensure proper implementation and address stakeholder concerns. This development serves as a case study for other nations considering similar AI integration in their education systems.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/ai-in-school-south-korea-textbook-rollback-jobs-education-2025-8