South Korea expects a low number of first graders.
In 2027, the number of children entering primary schools in South Korea may be below 300,000 for the first time as the birth rate continues to decline.
This year, 301,442 first graders enrolled in elementary schools in South Korea. This is the lowest figure since 1964, when the country began keeping relevant statistics.
The decrease in the number of school-age children increases the fear of closing educational institutions, especially in rural areas, and also deepens the educational inequality between the regions.