The Ministry of Education in South Korea revealed that they are planning to be a host for 300,000 international students by 2027. South Korea is welcoming more international students to strengthen its ties and maintain its position as a top study destination. Secondly, attracting more international students is necessary to address the sharp drop in the school-age population in the country. The drop is creating a situation wherein the country is seeing a lack of workers.
The ministry wishes to modify the International Education Quality Assurance System. Under this, they ensure that more than 30% of international students in their first year should be holders of the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK).
There is an alternative plan, wherein authorities have planned to remove the requirement and make the online version of TOPIK available. On the other hand, the country wishes to promote its language and culture among the masses. As far as the labor shortage is concerned, South Korea’s government wants to welcome international students. These international students must hold degrees in science, technology, and engineering, as they will contribute to advancing the technology of the country.
The number of international students in the country has recently increased. According to the reports, the majority of the students coming to South Korea are from China, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam. Even with the new amendments to the law of the country, international students are allowed to work for more hours. Earlier, international students were allowed to work for 20 hours per week. The ministry is planning to provide more scholarships to international students and streamline the visa application process.